Shaw Gibbs steps into the Irish marketplace via a strategic partnership with Crowleys DFK
The partnership welcomes Crowleys DFK, one of Ireland’s leading firms of accountants and business advisers into the Shaw Gibbs Group. With 14 Partners and 131 employees operating over two offices in Dublin and Cork, Crowleys DFK have provided client-focused accountancy, advisory and associated services for more than 50 years.
This move is supported by further strategic investment from Apiary Capital, accelerating the growth of Crowleys DFK in the three core areas of: learning & development, technology, and succession planning.
Importantly, both Crowleys DFK and Shaw Gibbs are proud members of DFK International, a global alliance of accounting firms providing audit, tax and advisory services, working closely together across over 430 offices in over 90 countries.
Peter O’Connell, CEO of Shaw Gibbs said
“We have worked with James and the team at Crowleys DFK for several years, sharing knowledge and business strategies as well as working together on client matters.
This partnership allows for an investment into the Crowleys DFK business and team to achieve further growth, development and investment into the geopolitically stable and business-friendly Irish market.
We are very pleased to welcome them to the Group.”
James O’Connor, Managing Partner of Crowleys DFK added
“We’re proud to be working with Shaw Gibbs, whose partnering philosophy, culture and strategy align closely with our own vision.
While this partnership represents a significant step forward, our day-to-day operations remain unchanged. Our firm name, brand, leadership team, and client relationships will continue as they are. This investment is about reinforcing our foundation, not altering it.
This partnership is more than financial - it’s a shared commitment to sustainable growth, innovation, and impact. With our strengthened connection to the Shaw Gibbs Group and the financial support from its Investor, we are well-positioned to build on our success and shape the next chapter of our firm’s evolution.
This is a significant moment for our firm, and we’re excited about what lies ahead.”
This marks the 12th transaction that the Shaw Gibbs Group have completed since Apiary Capital’s investment in November 2022. The addition of Crowleys DFK to the Group will result in a practice with 70 Partners and 747 people based over 20 offices in Central & Southern England and Ireland.
About the Shaw Gibbs Group
Shaw Gibbs is a top 35 accountancy practice who provide expert solutions for entrepreneurial businesses and private individuals. Investing in teams of high-quality specialists, they work with the best-in-breed technology to create value for clients which exceeds expectation.
About Crowleys DFK
Crowleys DFK is one of Ireland’s leading firms of Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors. With offices in Dublin and Cork, we have been providing client-focused audit, accountancy, financial advisory, taxation, corporate finance and consulting services for 50 years.