His appointment is part of the group's ambitious expansion plans in providing comprehensive professional services to the corporate market and private companies.

Born in Hong Kong and a Chinese speaker, Mr Wan moved to Leeds when he was 19 to further his studies and is a chartered certified accountant. He previously worked in industry for seven years and at one time was a community development officer in Bradford with the West Yorkshire Chinese Community Association.

"I have strong links with the Chinese community and there is considerable potential in Yorkshire for Chinese speaking accountants," he said. "I can also offer advice to Yorkshire businesses on how to go about trading with Chinese companies and all important cultural issues they should be aware of."

Mr Wan is also looking forward to celebrating the Chinese New Year on 7 February which is the Year of the Rat and, in his new role with Mitchells Group, sees as particularly auspicious.

"The Rat is seen as the leader of the pack," he added.