Regional accountancy and business advisors Azets  has appointed Paul Haley as director of Audit & Assurance for the South West and Wales.

Mr Haley specialises in internal audit services, formerly internal audit manager at Tata Steel Europe, and brings a wealth of knowledge from more than 30 years in the industry.

With an office at Gloucester Quays, Azets said the appointment was fundamental to its long-term growth strategy.

Paul Bowden, partner at Azets said: "I am delighted to welcome Paul into our South West and Wales region to lead the local delivery of our internal audit service for existing clients and the wider marketplace.

"Azets has incredibly strong internal audit credentials, and the array of clients attracted through this service line offering is very impressive. Paul will bring considerable professional experience to strengthen our service and further develop our reputation as a nationally recognised leading internal audit firm within the UK."

Mr Haley qualified in 1993 and is a chartered fellow of the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors - previous to his role at Tata Steel Europe, he spent 11 years as director of BHBi Consultancy.

He also has extensive experience in public sector internal audit and was head of internal audit at DARA Defence Aviation Repair Agency within the Ministry of Defence, as well as in ECGD Export Credit within the Department of Trade & Industry.

Azets said Mr Haley will lead the internal audit services in the South West and Wales as well as becoming part of the senior leadership team in the area.

Career opportunities are available at Azets, visit www.azets.co.uk to find out more.