Smith & Williamson, a UK-based investment management, accountancy and tax group, has appointed Rupert Phelps as a partner to lead the growth of its family office business.

In the new role, Phelps will be responsible for developing the firm’s existing presence by growing its clients and developing intermediary relationships.

Phelps has an experience of about 20 years in the wealth management industry. He most recently served as a director of family office services at Savills and previously also held a similar role at BNY Mellon.

Smith & Williamson head of private client tax and business services Joss Dalrymple said: “The development of our family office services is a key component of our business plan.”