BDO recruits PKF Perth's tax division

Perth accounting firm BDO has more than doubled the size of its corporate and international tax service taking over PKF Perth's tax division.

Six of PKF's leading advisors Craig Melville, John Murray (pictured), Mark Pollock, Joe Evangelista and Marc Loftus are among the 55 staff who will join the BDO team.

The seventh partner Agnes Vacca has accepted an offer to join KPMG.

BDO currently has 175 staff and was ranked as the sixth largest accounting firm in Perth according to the 2010 WA Business News Book of Lists.

PKF was the seventh largest with 110 staff.

Last month PKF's 30 strong audit team was 'poached' by Deloitte.

BDO Chief Executive Vin Brown said the strategic move built on the company's unique position as a quality global financial services company which operates as a smaller, relationship-driven, local firm.

"This is a great development for BDO in Perth," Mr Brown said.

"BDO has been seeking to increase its capabilities and expertise in the taxation field for a considerable time.

"We have an outstanding team at BDO and we have been working to find the right people with strong tax expertise to join them.

"This move provides significant benefit to the expanded firm's clients and staff, with access to global resources coupled with our commitment to personalised service."

Perth Tax Consulting Partner Craig Melville said it was a positive move for both their clients and staff.

"BDO has the same client-focussed service that appeals to our clients, combined with the skills and resources available from a high ranking international company," Mr Melville said.

The move will be effective from 30th August 2010.