One of the UK’s largest accountancy firms, MHA, which recently expanded into Scotland, has now revealed plans for a move into Ireland.  

At the end of last year, MHA established its first Scottish presence through the merger with Aberdeen-based Meston Reid & Co. This was followed in February when the firm, Baker Tilly International’s UK member, merged with Geoghegans in Edinburgh.  

The firm has not ruled out further expansion into Scotland. 

Roberts Nathan, a prominent accountancy and advisory firm in Ireland, today announced its intention to merge with MHA, effective from July 1st, 2024. This strategic partnership will lead to the formation of Baker Tilly Ireland (BTI). It plans to create 100 new jobs alongside this exciting development as part of its expansion strategy.  

MHA is the UK’s 13th largest accountancy group. This proposed merger combines Roberts Nathan’s extensive local expertise with a strong international presence, significantly enhancing the firm’s capability to offer a more comprehensive range of services and sector expertise and serve a broader client base in Ireland and globally.  

Vivian Nathan is the Managing Partner of Roberts Nathan and will become Baker Tilly Ireland’s new Regional Chief Operations Officer

He said: “We are delighted to share this exciting news. This proposed merger marks a pivotal milestone, enabling us to leverage our combined strengths to provide more extensive services and innovative solutions to our clients while creating significant growth opportunities for our team.”  

Rakesh Shaunak, Managing Partner and Chairman of MHA, said: ‘Expanding into Ireland is a significant step in MHA’s strategic growth plans due to its strong trading ties and business connections with the UK and Europe, plus its thriving business community, and resilient economy. 

Our focus will remain on supporting the local and international SMEs, plus growing the owner-managed business client base, enabling them to take advantage of the international footprint of BTI, and also allowing our UK clients new opportunities into the Irish Market. Roberts Nathan’s growth mindset, entrepreneurial spirit and highly personal ethos aligned with MHA’s perfectly, so we are very excited about this next phase.”  

The 100 new roles will range from graduates to experienced professionals in Dublin and Cork, with hybrid working options over the next two years. These positions will span audit, advisory, and tax services, reflecting Baker Tilly Ireland’s commitment to driving economic growth and offering high-quality employment opportunities in Ireland.