Reading: Paul Etherington joins EY from Grant Thornton

EY has appointed Paul Etherington as assurance partner to join its private and mid-market team, based in Reading.

Etherington, who has extensive experience as an assurance partner, both as an external auditor and reporting accountant, joins from Grant Thornton where he worked for almost 28 years. He has experience working with businesses in the tech space, financial/professional services, and in retail and online sectors.

At EY, Etherington will focus on building the firm’s market profile and client base in the private and mid-market in the Thames Valley and South region. In particular, he will be working with start-ups and fast-growth businesses seeking to exit through IPO.

Etherington commented: “I have spent much of my career immersed in the mid-market where I see the most opportunity for businesses looking to expand and grow. The Thames Valley and South is already a major draw for inward investment and I look forward to supporting local businesses with their growth and investment plans. I have been hugely impressed with the team and breadth of experience which EY has together with its commitment to investing in this region.”

Richard Baker, managing partner at EY in the Thames Valley and South: “I’m delighted to welcome Paul into this role as we continue to grow our team and focus our support in the regional mid-market. Paul will play a pivotal role in the ongoing growth of our Reading office as we continue to recruit and grow our business."