A WELL-KNOWN name in the North-East financial sector aims to spearhead a business’ growth after switching companies.

Tim Mallon has joined chartered accountants Leathers as development director.

Mr Mallon says he aims to bolster the firm’s regional and national presence.

Leathers has offices in Durham City and Newcastle and is adding to its team to complement the arrival of Mr Mallon, who was previously head of tax at Evolution, which has offices at Wynyard, near Billingham, and is now part of Baldwins Accountancy Group.

He has known Michael Leather, founder and managing partner of Leathers, since they worked together at PWC, then known as Price Waterhouse, almost 30 years ago.

Having declined Mr Leather’s offer to join him in his own newly-established business back in 1990, Mr Mallon has now decided to join his former colleague.

He said: “This is a move I am very glad to have made; there is huge potential for Leathers.

“Michael and the team have built up a strong reputation and very enviable client base, which gives us great foundations for developing from here.

“We have a great team already, but we want to develop that and are already looking to bring new people in from graduate level upwards.”

Mr Leather said Mr Mallon will add a new dimension to his company.

He added: “Tim’s strong technical capabilities mean he will fit in well.

“I made contact with him because I thought his experience, combined with his drive and vision, would help me lead the charge in developing Leathers even further.”