A retirement and a new directorship have resulted in changes to the senior leadership structure at Crowe Clark Whitehill.
Founding director Roger Barrs has retired after almost 44 years and audit departmental manager Debbie Clague has been appointed a director, joining the practice’s chief executive, John Cowan and Phaedra Bird, on the board.
As a director Debbie will develop the breadth and depth of the firm’s audit services and becomes managing director of Crowe Clark Whitehill Audit LLC, while Phaedra will assume a wider senior leadership role.
Reflecting on his 44 years with Crowe Clark Whitehill Roger said he had been ‘blessed with enjoying building up the practice’ and viewed accountancy as ‘a people business…and I have had the pleasure of working with some great people over the years.’
Continual professional development had been central to growing the business. ‘It’s essential that accountants keep up to date; training is essential to refresh and develop a firm’s skills base,’ he said.
He also took the opportunity of his retirement to offer his colleagues some advice: ‘Don’t be afraid to admit when you don’t immediately know the answer; your client will respect you for it. Keep it honest and build a solid reputation.’
He continued: ‘With John, Phae and Debbie leading the firm Crowe Clark Whitehill is in excellent hands. I shall, of course, miss them and the office camaraderie, also most of the clients. What I won’t miss, though, are file reviews, compliance and regulation complexities…and Monday mornings.’
John said: ‘Crowe Clark Whitehill would never have grown to be as successful and resilient as it is today had it not been for Roger’s drive, commitment and vision from day one. He helped shaped the practice and its solid reputation for personal service which Phae, Debbie and I will continue to offer our clients.
‘I have fond memories of building the firm with Roger then seeing the business grow in new directions, as it will continue to do in the future. I count him not only as a colleague but also as a friend. All of us here who still have to face Monday mornings wish Roger well in his retirement.’
Photo - Crowe Clark Whitehill’s Roger Barrs and Debbie Clague, seated, with Phaedra Bird and John Cowan. Photo Andrew Barton.
