Chris Smith

Mr Smith will lead a team of dedicated personal tax advisers, focusing on private wealth and shareholder tax advice – helping clients to grow and protect their wealth in turbulent times.

He has more than 11 years of experience and joins KPMG from mid-market firm Grant Thornton.

Vishal Chopra, KPMG’s head of tax in Scotland, said: “The uncertainties that have emerged over the past year have increased the need for individuals and entrepreneurs to seek support on how best to manage their income and asset base, as well as for those looking to capitalise on new opportunities. Looking ahead there will continue to be challenges as our economy is rebuilt in part through changes to the tax system.

“Chris brings a wealth of experience and understanding of the issues facing private clients in Scotland, and together with his technical expertise and commercial outlook, he is ideally placed to help our clients navigate these turbulent times. This is an exciting time for KPMG’s Tax team as we plan for further growth across our three Scottish offices, and I’m delighted that Chris is joining us to play a key role in driving this forward.”

Commenting on his appointment, Chris Smith added: “Over the next few months and years, personal tax advice is set to become more important than ever before. Political leaders throughout the world have signalled that reforms to capital taxes will form a key part of post-Covid recovery plans, which naturally will have an impact on many of our clients.

“Possible increases to capital gains tax, the introduction of a wealth tax and the increased movement of people as we shift away from the old ‘office-based’ culture will all offer new opportunities and issues for our clients.

“KPMG’s tax team has some of the industry’s best specialists, covering all aspects of the tax space. I’m looking forward to playing a key role in driving forward our own growth ambitions as well as helping our clients across Scotland as they navigate through a new post-pandemic world.”