People
Who we are
Ziliant is the new trading name of the Haines Watts R&D tax team. Same team, same ownership, same level of due diligence and quality. We’re a regulated firm with national reach, trading since 2018 and the second Centre of Tax Excellence established by Terry Cheesman FCA since 2016.
Why the new brand?
We began our journey as a small hub serving the regional Haines Watts practices with R&D tax expertise for their existing clients. But as our wholly owned business grew to be larger than our work for Haines Watts, it made more sense for us to become independent. It means more agility in pricing, resourcing and operations – all of which benefit our clients.
Our philosophy
We are committed to ensuring that innovation tax funding stays true to the tenet of supporting new and established entrepreneurs alike. To this end, we openly engage with HMRC at an operational and planning level. To deliver our tax consultancy services the team is a purposeful mix of the necessary multidisciplinary backgrounds : science, engineering, technical communication, mathematics, economics, accountancy and tax.
Our mission
To continue to be recognised as a leading regulated partner for innovation reliefs, by operating a trusted multidisciplinary advisory practice, with a solid commitment to scientific curiosity and financial integrity.
Our Team
Profiles of our people—from experienced accountants to technical writers—highlight the depth and character of Ziliant. Every client is matched with both a tax advisor and a subject expert.
Charlotte Bean Bsc (Hons) - R&D Tax Associate
I have worked in R&D tax since 2022 which has allowed me to gain valuable insights to a wide range of industries. With an Economics degree, I have been able to use my quantitative and qualitative abilities to good use to support both small and large businesses with their R&D claims. Outside of work, I am either around family and friends, or on a European city break.
Rachel Bradshaw Bsc (Hons) - R&D Tax Associate
I have worked in R&D tax since 2022, where I have gained insights into a variety of industries and the UK tax system. My experience is further supported by my current undertaking of the ATT qualification, of which I am halfway through. As an Economics graduate, I use my quantitative, analytical, and qualitative skills within the role to help businesses pursue R&D claims. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time socialising with family and friends, and attending gigs and festivals, when I am lucky enough to get tickets!
Terry Cheesman FCA - CEO - R&D Tax Specialist
I am a Chartered Accountant who has worked in tax since joining the profession at the age of 36 in 2001. I did so after an eclectic work life across many sectors including software engineering, housing and conservation forestry. I began submitting R&D claims in 2007 as part of a mixed tax manager role. Since August 2016 I have set up, and led from the front, two centres of tax excellence, delivering in excess of £100 million tax relief and assisting companies to fund their innovation journey. I engage with HMRC at an operational and strategic level. Outside work I am a keen juggler and enjoy walking holidays. Number nerd fact: In 37 years of vegetarianism I have reduced my carbon emissions by 46 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
Isobel Denby Bsc (Hons) - R&D Tax Associate
Since completing my Mathematics degree in 2024, I’ve been working as an R&D Tax Associate, where I enjoy meeting clients from a wide range of sectors and supporting them with their R&D claims. My background in Mathematics has equipped me with strong analytical skills and attention to detail, which I apply when working through claims. I’ve recently started pursuing my ATT qualification to deepen my tax knowledge. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me at a football match or a concert.
Anna Fisher - R&D Account Manager
I have a financial background spanning WAY back to 2006, working within the bookmaking, motor, modelling, acting and engineering sectors. I’ve progressed from accounts assistant to Financial Controller to now currently client relationship and operations within R&D tax and Financial Services. Mum of 3 human boys, 2 bengals and a staffie. Outside the hours of 9-5 Monday to Friday I’m on the sidelines of a football pitch or ringside of an Octagon.
Luke Humphreys BA (Hons) - Business Support Officer
I hold a Bachelors degree in Business Management from the University of Sheffield, and began the role as Business Support Officer in April 2025. In my role, I help streamline processes, deliver business intelligence from our data and provide marketing support. Outside of work, I spend my Tuesday and Friday evenings on a dartboard, in which I’m a regional and national University Darts Champion, whilst also finding time to play football on the weekends and socialise with my friends.
Richard Lewis FISTC - Senior Technical Consultant
I’ve worked as a technical writer and business analyst since 1999, and in R&D tax as a technical consultant since 2019. Over that time I’ve gained insights into many different sectors, from their best innovators. I’m a Fellow of the Institute of Scientific and Technical Communicators. I’ve also been a financial journalist, author, occasional broadcaster and peer-reviewed researcher. I’m bilingual with French and I’m a dad to one amazing daughter. Outside work hours I play in a band and have a small psychotherapy practice.
Hanna Lussey MBA ATT - Senior R&D Tax Manager and Quality Assurance
I am an ATT qualified tax professional and have worked in R&D tax since 2018, starting as an R&D Associate and progressing to Senior R&D Tax Manager. During this time I have managed a diverse client portfolio, helping companies better understand the incentives available for their business journey and supporting their claim process from start to finish. My background is in Business Management. I have an MBA, Business Management degree and 3 years’ previous experience working in business analysis and operations. Away from work I am a crown green bowler and enjoy visiting European cities (the list continues to grow!). I also love live music and volunteer at a local theatre.
Miza Said BEng - Technical Consultant
I hold a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Birmingham and began my career as a tunneling plant engineer in Malaysia. After 18 months as a UK personal tax advisor, I transitioned to R&D tax, blending my technical expertise with technical writing. Outside of work, I’m an avid hiker and passionate traveller, always seeking new adventures and experiences.
Amalia Westerlund Msci (Hons) - South-West Regional Manager
I’ve worked in R&D since 2019, gathering experience and insight into all sorts of industries. As a former biologist I have a special interest in the sciences, but I love learning new things, including languages: I speak four. Outside of work I’m an international rugby player, with a penchant for knitting and a love for cats.
Isaac Yates BSc (Hons) - R&D Tax Associate
I have a degree in Economics from the University of Chester, graduating in 2025 and quickly moving onto working in R&D tax. Through my degree I have developed my quantitative and qualitative skills, among others, which I utilise daily through all aspects of R&D claims. As a tax associate I help businesses navigate their R&D claims, helping them understand the process and receive all benefits available to them. Outside of work I enjoy going to the gym or watching live sport: football or rugby league most often.
Careers at Ziliant
What you can expect when you work at Ziliant
Support
At Ziliant we’re very proud of fostering an enjoyable and comfortable work culture where we put the person before the role and will encourage you in your personal career development goals, whether that means supporting you to gain confidence, skills or qualifications. We have already funded seven staff through the ATT qualification if this is something you wish to pursue.
Agility
We operate from two geographic hubs, in Liverpool and Bristol and can offer a degree of flexibility around hybrid working. We like to question our own thinking and do whatever it takes to make the business work better for everyone.
Input
Ziliant is a business and brand designed by its entire team. When you join the team you can expect to be asked your opinion early and often and see your thinking and personality make a real difference to how the business evolves. To support innovators properly – it’s best to also be one!
Current positions
We’re always keen to hear from bright, ambitious individuals with an interest in innovation and tax: send your CV to careers@ziliant.uk and tell us a little about your experience and goals.
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