Burness Paull has promoted two members of its corporate tax and share incentives team, as the firm recognises commitment to strong client service and eyes further expansion in this specialist area.

^{Christine Yuill and Nicola Williams}

Christine Yuill is elevated to head of tax with responsibility for leading the development of the firm’s corporate tax offering and its growing team of tax lawyers.

Christine, who moved to Burness Paull in 2022, is widely regarded as one of Scotland’s leading tax lawyers. Recognised by both the Chambers and Legal 500 legal directories, she acts for clients on the full spectrum of tax issues. These include the tax aspects of corporate transactions, tax structuring advice for management, property tax advice, and employment tax advice.

The firm has also promoted Nicola Williams to partner, in recognition of her expertise and contribution to the growth of the tax practice, and appointed Chubbe Anucha as a tax solicitor.

Nicola initially qualified as a lawyer in New Zealand, where she worked for the country’s tax authority and a big-four accountancy firm before relocating to Scotland and requalifying in English and then Scots law.

She has spent the last 15 years working in a tax advisory capacity, supporting UK and international clients with all areas of corporate tax and share incentives. These include the tax implications of share, business and property sales, using tax-advantaged share plans, and qualifying for other tax incentives such as the enterprise investment scheme.

Christine Yuill, partner and newly appointed head of tax at Burness Paull, commented: “The UK tax system is complex and made even more intricate for businesses operating in Scotland by the devolution of tax-raising powers to the Scottish government. We also anticipate that clients will require support with the significant tax changes expected to form part of the UK government’s upcoming budget.

“Getting tax wrong can be expensive, both financially and reputationally, while getting it right minimises the costs and risks faced by both businesses and individuals. We help our clients to navigate this highly technical area by offering sensible solutions to achieve tax-efficient results and support wider business objectives.

“Nicola’s skillset enhances our proposition and her promotion to partner is well-deserved. She is highly regarded for her expert knowledge and clients value her ability to explain tax issues and advise on practical and commercial ways forward.

“I am excited to be taking on the leadership of Burness Paull’s tax team. We believe there is significant opportunity to further grow the practice and Nicola’s promotion and the appointment of Chubbe will support that ambition.”

Peter Lawson, chair at Burness Paull, said: “Corporate tax is a highly specialised area that adds significant value to our client offering and wider business. Tax advice is an increasingly important component of the work we do for our clients, particularly in the corporate and real estate M&A investment spheres where tax efficiency and risk mitigation are key considerations.

“The promotions of Christine and Nicola, and appointment of Chubbe, reflect the continuing growth of the team and our commitment to attracting and developing talented individuals who can deliver the very best outcomes for our clients.”