The promotions include two partner appointments comprising public sector audit specialist David Eardley and Gemma Monaghan, head of Azets’ R&D in Scotland.

In addition to these, Azets has promoted Andrew Turnbull (tax), David Meldrum (restructuring and insolvency), Gordon Burns (corporate finance) to director, and Iain Black and Farran Kerr (accounts and business advisory) to associate director. In total, over 40 staff have received promotions across Scotland.

Mr McKnight has been in the profession for over 20 years, specialising in external audit where he predominantly works with larger privately owned and private equity backed clients.

He has successfully developed and expanded the Glasgow office over the past three years, amassing a team of over 200 partners and staff. His new role will focus on driving integration and growth of the business across Scotland and contribute to Azets’ UK-wide strategy.

Mr Eardley is responsible for leading the delivery of internal audit, external audit and risk management services to an expanding range of public sector clients including the NHS, universities, colleges and central government bodies. His experience includes membership in the NHS Technical Accounting Group, a non-executive trusteeship of a £13 million local leisure trust charity, and helping to train members of the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors (Scotland).

Ms Monaghan is known for her expertise in advising SMEs and high-growth businesses on R&D Tax Credits, Patent Box, and tax-efficient innovation investment. Having trained as an industrial chemist she brings valuable insights into how businesses approach the funding of innovation and is well-placed to ensure they maximise their investment in R&D and innovation.

Commenting on the promotions, Mr McKnight said: “I am honoured to have been given the opportunity to lead the development of Azets across Scotland and delighted that David and Gemma have been promoted to partner. They are leading experts in their field and outstanding examples of the calibre of staff that we are fortunate to have working at Azets.

“The promotion of over 40 staff illustrates how talent can progress at Azets and I would like to congratulate them all on their achievements. Azets is growing rapidly in Scotland, and we are investing heavily in the development and progression of our staff.

“We encourage everyone to take full advantage of our development programmes and if they have the ambition, we have the opportunities, which is why I am very pleased to note that such a substantial number have been promoted this summer.