A South West-based Financial Planning and accountancy firm has promoted two new partners.

Albert Goodman has revealed the elevation of two new partners, Sophie Parkhouse and Chris Lewis, bringing the total number of partners at the firm to 18.

Ms Parkhouse is currently Albert Goodman’s technical and training director, based in Taunton, and will become the firm’s first non-portfolio holding partner after three years’ service.

She will continue to take responsibility for training and development as well as compliance and technical and regulatory areas, the firm says.

Ms Parkhouse is currently deputy president of ICAEW South West and has recently been elected to sit on the ICAEW Practice Committee.

After a 14-year career as a Chartered Accountant, Mr Lewis has become a partner in the Albert Goodman business services team where he will work with SME’s across the region.

He will be based in North Somerset and join the fim’s existing partner group, which is based out of Weston-super-Mare.

Mr Lewis is an active member of the Weston Chamber and was said to be well-known for presenting at local chamber events.

Ms Parkhouse said: “I am excited to join the current partnership at what is a very exciting time for the profession.

“Making Tax Digital and other technological advances are bringing lots of change to the world of accountancy and I am keen to embrace these opportunities to help shape the future of Albert Goodman.”

Mr Lewis said: “Being part of the Albert Goodman team has been a great experience so far, and being promoted to partner status is an exciting next step.

“This promotion will allow me to present new ideas and extend my decision making, especially when it involves supporting local SME’s in North Somerset.”

Paul Hake, senior partner at Albert Goodman, added: “We are always passionate about promoting within as we feel it’s important to recognise and reward the talent we have in-house.

“Both Sophie and Chris are very deserving of being promoted to the partnership and we are confident their capabilities and enthusiasm will add real value to the long-term success of Albert Goodman.”