New senior roles for Manchester-based partners

Saffery’s Manchester office has announced two senior leadership developments as it enters its next phase of growth.

From October 2025, Audit Partner Diane Petit-Laurent is the new Head of Office in Manchester, taking over the role from Mike Hodges who’d been in the position for over a decade. Alongside this, Audit Partner Simon Kite has been appointed to the International Board of Nexia, a leading global network of independent accounting and consulting firms, of which Saffery is a member.

New leadership for a growing Manchester office

As Head of Office, Diane will be responsible for leading the Manchester Team, shaping the office’s strategic direction and continuing to build Saffery’s presence across the North West. Diane’s client base includes entrepreneurs across a range of industries such as technology, manufacturing and retail.

She steps into the role at a time of strong momentum and growth – over the last 10 years the office has grown from two to six partners, and the total team in Manchester now consists of over 100 people.

Diane said:

“Manchester is an incredibly important market for Saffery and one that continues to present exciting opportunities for both our clients and our people. Taking on the Head of Office role is very exciting and a true privilege. My focus will be on maintaining the high quality of client service and advice we’re renowned for, while continuing to invest in our team and strengthen relationships across the region.”

Greater influence on the international stage

Supporting the local leadership strength, Manchester partner Simon Kite was appointed to the Nexia International Board in November 2025. Nexia provides member firms with international capability and connectivity for clients operating across borders.

Simon is a member of Saffery’s Leadership Board, while also providing commercial support to his clients on matters such as acquisitions, fundraising, profit optimisation and grooming businesses for sale. His experience covers owner-managed businesses and listed companies and spans a broad range of industry sectors.

Simon’s appointment at Nexia highlights Manchester at the heart of key global conversations within the network, showcasing the firm’s influence across the global network and the office’s ability to support clients with international ambitions.

Simon commented:

“I’ve been a member of the Nexia Europe Region Board for the past six years and being appointed to the International Board is a significant opportunity, both personally and for the firm. It allows us to play a more active role in shaping how the network evolves and to ensure the needs of our clients in Manchester and the other UK regions are well represented on an international platform.”