After an impressive 37 years with Clayton & Brewill, Neil South is retiring from his full-time role as partner at the end of this month.
Neil first joined the firm in May 1988, just three weeks before his wedding! Over the decades, he’s built a career defined by dedication, deep expertise, and lasting client relationships. As he prepares for this next chapter, Neil takes a moment to reflect on his time at Clayton & Brewill.
The evolution of Clayton & Brewill
Reflecting on the changes over the years, Neil has seen Clayton & Brewill transform from a firm with 35 employees and four partners, operating with just two desktop computers, to a streamlined and highly efficient practice. “Today, just about all of our work is automated and reliant upon our software,” he notes. “Despite these changes, one thing has remained constant, and that’s Clayton & Brewill’s strong client focus and friendly workplace culture.”
A career built on relationships
Neil’s career has been defined by his commitment to owner-managed businesses and individuals. He recalls: “In the early days, we focussed on providing timely management accounts and information for our clients to enable them to manage their businesses from a position of knowledge.” Many of the clients Neil worked with in his early years remain with the firm today, these professional relationships have often grown into friendships.
During this time, Neil worked directly for Roy Hill, who was senior partner at the firm, while completing his training contract. He became a qualified Chartered Accountant in 1991, and on Roy’s retirement, Neil was appointed a partner on 1 January 1995.
Proud moments and lasting impact
Neil’s greatest professional achievement is not tied to a single moment but to the ongoing growth and success of Clayton & Brewill. “I am very proud of how the firm has developed and grown over the last 30 years, while staying close to our clients and retaining the personal touch,” he says.
However, one moment does stand out for Neil, which is the time he had to step in and lead the sale of a family business when his client fell ill. “At the last minute, I had to stand in for him as the seller. Despite a lot of angst and worry, we completed the sale to the satisfaction of everyone,” he explains
Looking ahead
Though retiring from his full-time role, we are pleased to say that Neil is not leaving Clayton & Brewill behind entirely. He will continue working two days a week in a consultancy role, ensuring his knowledge and experience remain a valued part of the firm.
Outside of work, Neil has a busy schedule planned: golf, cricket, time with his grandchildren! He is also looking forward to plenty of travel, starting with a trip to Japan in April.
As Neil transitions into this new chapter, we would like to take the time to thank him for his dedication, leadership, and the lasting impact he has had on Clayton & Brewill.
Doug Perry, Partner at Clayton & Brewill, said: “On behalf of everyone at Clayton & Brewill, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Neil for his incredible contribution over the past 37 years. His dedication, expertise, and genuine care for both colleagues and clients have been a defining part of Clayton & Brewill’s success. While we will certainly miss him in his full-time role, we are delighted that he will still be with us in a consultancy capacity. Neil, we wish you a very happy and well-earned retirement!”
