Employment Tax Partner joins Armstrong Watson as firm continues to expand Manchester offering
Armstrong Watson has announced the appointment of Lee Stott as Employment Tax Partner in their Manchester office, further strengthening the firm’s specialist tax capabilities across the North of England and Scotland.
With more than 19 years’ experience advising businesses and individuals, Lee joins the firm from Azets and has also held senior roles at Grant Thornton.
His appointment comes at a time when employment tax is rising up the boardroom agenda and businesses across Manchester and the wider North West are facing increasing pressure from growing employment costs, evolving workforce models and greater regulatory scrutiny.
Lee said: “Employment tax is no longer simply a compliance issue; it is a strategic consideration that can impact growth, talent attraction and profitability. As the region continues to thrive, employers need practical, commercially focused advice to help them navigate these challenges and seize opportunities with confidence, and I’m looking forward to delivering that.”
Lee joins soon after the Manchester team welcomed Audit and Assurance Partner Louise Webster and moved to a new city centre base.
Over the past 12 years, Lee has specialised in Employment Tax, Global Mobility and Reward, supporting organisations across a wide range of sectors. He also brings extensive experience within the sports sector, having advised clubs, organisations and professional athletes on a range of employment tax matters.
Based in Manchester, at the firm’s new Fountain Street Office, Lee will work closely with clients across the business, advising on the full spectrum of employment tax issues. His expertise spans employer compliance, employee remuneration and benefits, global mobility, workforce planning and HMRC enquiries, helping businesses manage risk, maintain compliance and identify opportunities for cost efficiencies.
Lee said: “I am excited to have joined Armstrong Watson at such an important time in the firm’s growth and development. I want to help build on Armstrong Watson’s existing strengths and expand the offering across the Greater Manchester region to play a part in firmly establishing our presence as one of the area’s leading professional services businesses.
“I was attracted to Armstrong Watson by the fact it has a long history and remains partner-led. This provides continuity for clients and colleagues alike, creating strong relationships, a collaborative culture and a long-term approach to supporting businesses and individuals.”
Matt Osbourne, Audit Partner and Regional Lead, said: “We are delighted to welcome Lee to Armstrong Watson. Employment tax has become an increasingly important area for employers as legislation evolves, workforce structures become more complex, and business costs continue to rise.
“Lee brings a wealth of specialist expertise and a strong reputation in the market. His appointment further enhances the breadth of advice we can provide to clients across the region and reflects our ongoing investment in Manchester as we continue to grow our team, capabilities and presence in the market.”