New career for celebrated West Country banker

Former agriculture banker Pat Tomlinson has joined West Country accountant Old Mill as an Associate Director in the rural services team.

Well known and respected within the farming industry, Mr Tomlinson was born and bred in the West Country, working as a farm management consultant before joining HSBC Bank 15 years ago. Specialising in the agriculture, agri-business and agri-food sectors, he became HSBC’s Head of Agriculture in 2008.

"With Old Mill widely recognised as the leading and most progressive West Country accountancy firm, especially for its work in agriculture and related sectors, I am delighted to be joining the team," he said. "Since leaving HSBC, I have been determined to progress my career in both agriculture and finance and this new opportunity does just that, with the benefit and support of a strong, respected and forward-thinking firm."

Mike Butler, Head of Rural Services at Old Mill added: "Old Mill has built its success on delivering the best possible service to clients and to do that we have to continue to recruit top quality people. Pat joining us fits perfectly with that ethos; we are excited by the unique strength and depth of experience across agriculture, food and finance that he brings to the team and look forward to this benefiting our existing clients and new ones, as the firm continues to grow."

Mr Tomlinson will initially be based at Old Mill’s Yeovil office, working directly with clients across the South and West, while completing his professional accountancy qualifications. He and his family will continue to live in Taunton, Somerset. The appointment is effective from 1 February 2011.