Based in Glasgow, Mr Smith will help clients across the UK optimise tax relief on their capital expenditure.

Working closely with Birmingham-based co-lead Aulfat Bi, a Chartered Tax Adviser and tax technician, he will develop and grow Azets’ 11-strong specialist capital allowances team.

Mr Smith brings 20 years’ experience in capital allowances to the firm and joins from RSM.

A chartered quantity surveyor by background, he is also tax qualified (ATT) and has held roles at ‘big four’ firms, building extensive expertise and advising businesses on capital allowances strategy, complex transactions and claims.

He said: “Azets is a dynamic fast-growing firm with a strong platform for its next phase of development.

“I was already familiar with the capital allowances offering and key people in the wider team. They include Mark Pryce and George Roberts, both highly respected in the market who are helping to grow the business, so it felt like the perfect time to join.

“Capital allowances are a discreet but highly valuable part of the tax process. While most businesses and individuals are aware of them, the nuances within the regime mean opportunities are often overlooked and claims are not fully optimised.

“The regime is currently the most generous it has ever been in terms of ‘bang for your buck’, with measures such as full expensing providing 100% relief on qualifying expenditure. This delivers instant tax savings, reducing tax liabilities and generating valuable cashflow upside.

“Almost all businesses incur capital expenditure at some point whether that’s refurbishing offices, fitting out retail stores, building large infrastructure assets or maintaining property portfolios.

“Getting specialist advice early in the process can make a significant difference to the amount of tax relief available.”

Welcoming Mr Smith to the West of Scotland tax team, located near Braehead, Glasgow, Mark Pryce, tax partner, said: “Paul’s mix of capital allowance and quantity surveying experience gives him a detailed understanding of construction and property expenditure that is hugely valuable both to local clients and our wider regional tax practice across Scotland and the UK.

“He will play an important role in strengthening our national capital allowances capability and supporting the continued growth of our specialist tax services.

“Alongside Aulfat and the wider team, he will help ensure our clients are making the most of the generous reliefs currently available and receiving clear, practical advice on their investment plans.”

Born and brought up in Arbroath as the son of a fisherman, Mr Smith lives in Lenzie with his wife Kirsten. They have two children, Emma, 20, and Lyle, 16. Outside work, Mr Smith is a keen sports fan.