WTS launches UK tax advisory firm under former EY partner Jeff Soar

Free from the constraints of audit conflicts and the layers of bureaucracy of its larger competitors, WTS UK is targeting listed as well as large private businesses.

WTS UK brings together a team of experienced partners and top talent from some of the world’s most respected advisory firms and in-house teams. The new firm delivers senior-led, practical advice through a purpose-built model designed around the evolving needs of clients, with AI embedded at its core to deepen insight, sharpen expertise and accelerate delivery.

With a double-digit number of partners having joined already, WTS UK is now focused on further building its team of advisers and is on track to scale to 100 Partners within five years. The business is actively seeking tax experts who will embrace its bold ambition and appetite for change, and who can help set a new standard for high-quality advice and client service across the full tax advisory suite. It offers a unique opportunity for talented professionals at all levels to shape a new firm and build something from the ground up.

WTS UK combines the agility and disruptive spirit of a forward-thinking startup with the respected 25-year heritage of WTS and the cross-border connectivity of WTS Global, a group of partner firms spanning 100 countries, representing one of the largest independent tax networks worldwide.

The launch of WTS UK is the most recent milestone in WTS’s broader growth journey. In 2025, it entered a long-term strategic partnership with the global private equity firm EQT to jointly build an independent European champion in the tax advisory industry, uniquely free from annual audits.

Mr Soar, CEO of WTS UK, said: “The business world is moving faster than ever, and it’s crucial that advisers keep pace. Having spent over 20 years in the industry, I’ve seen what works and where change is really needed.

“Business leaders want clear, actionable advice that gets straight to the point and delivers better value. The industry’s best talent is frustrated by layers of bureaucracy and red tape. We are all ready for a change.

“At WTS UK, we’re taking a completely fresh approach to tax advisory that’s purpose-built for today. We have the agility and disruptive spirit of a start-up, combined with the respected heritage and global connectivity of a European tax leader known for its innovation and advanced digital capabilities. This model allows us to adapt to shifting client needs and inspire our people to do the best work of their careers.”

Fritz Esterer, chairman of WTS, said: “The UK is a critical market for our international growth strategy. Jeff and the standout team he is building there represent a bold and differentiated presence in the UK market, where we feel we can make a real impact for clients seeking something new.

“Following our expansion in Poland in January this year, launching WTS UK represents another important step forward for WTS.”