Gateley Legal has advised professional services group Cooper Parry on the acquisition of CavanaghKelly, one of Northern Ireland’s most respected accountancy and business advisory firms.
The deal, which is due to complete by the end of July 2025, marks Cooper Parry’s first move into Northern Ireland, its 15th acquisition in just over two years and its third since partnering with New York-based Lee Equity Partners in December 2024. It follows closely on the heels of Cooper Parry’s acquisition of Liberty Corporate Finance, another transaction supported by Gateley Legal.
Founded 25 years ago and headquartered in Dungannon, CavanaghKelly has grown to a team of over 100 professionals. The firm offers a full suite of services including audit, tax, accounts and business advisory, and is widely recognised for its deep regional expertise.
Gateley Legal’s corporate team was led by partner and head of Manchester corporate Leigh Whittaker, supported by solicitors Harry Davies and Katie Brown and paralegal Tom Haycock. Alison Reid and Ruth Downie from Gateley Legal NI also supported the team on the Northern Ireland aspects of the deal.
Gav Jones, M&A director at Cooper Parry commented: “This acquisition is a major milestone for Cooper Parry as we continue to build a truly progressive professional services group across the UK and Ireland. Gateley Legal has once again been a trusted partner throughout the process. Their ability to navigate complex transactions with clarity, pace and commercial insight is second to none. Their team understands our ambitions and consistently delivers with confidence and care.”