Jobs vow as MHA Tait Walker moves to new Teesside office

An accountancy and advisory firm has pledged to create jobs and help businesses rebuild following the COVID-19 pandemic after switching to a new office.

MHA Tait Walker has moved to more than 6500sq ft of space in Stockton.

The business, which has strong roots in Teesside, says the move will deliver six new posts, including an apprenticeship position.

The company, whose head office is in Newcastle, moved its Teesside base during the recent COVID-19 lockdown, thanks to support from several local contractors that included Leba Construction.

Andrew Moorby, managing partner [pictured far right], said: “The COVID-19 lockdown challenged almost every business sector in Teesside and across the North East.

“We have engaged with the business community throughout lockdown via virtual meetings when they have needed our support with grants and loans, and to help them navigate the furlough process.

“While we were in the thick of the crisis, we realised how important team working and safe social interaction will be for all of us in the future.

“As a result, we have decided to open our new office in Stockton not just to our team but also to business owners who need extra space for meetings and hopefully in the future, when it is safe to do so, events.

“We hope that collectively we will all be able to get through this together.

“Teesside has a business community that is both tight-knit and resilient and we are determined to help those in the local area bounce back stronger.”

Andrew added that since opening its doors, the new office has already helped scores of businesses generate much-needed funding.

Once of those is Wynyard-based Acculabs Diagnostic UK Ltd, which MHA Tait Walker helped secure a £325,000 CBILS backed loan from NPIF – FW Capital Debt Finance, managed by FW Capital and part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

The loan will be used to buy equipment and working capital to help the business’ future growth.

Andrew added: “COVID-19 has undoubtedly been difficult and for many businesses across Teesside it will continue to present challenges.

“There is, however, a positive vibe to the area and that’s why we are focused on supporting the region’s business owners and the community with a new office and an increased locally based team.”

Reacting to MHA Tait Walker’s renewed commitment to the region, Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen [pictured front] said: “My plan for Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool is a plan for jobs and the creation of good quality, high-skilled local jobs for local workers.

“It is great to see MHA Tait Walker supporting this and our economic recovery.”