Real estate services adviser, Savills, has extended the scope of its south west business to include food and farming consultancy alongside energy. The two new services will be run from Taunton, one of the firm’s four offices in the south west.

Experienced food and farming consultant, Phil Goscomb, has relocated from Savills Chelmsford, where he headed up the division in the region. Phil specialises in farm budgeting, joint ventures, Basic Payment Scheme, rural grant funding and in hand farm management for both private and instructional clients. Phil also advises rural business on diversification opportunities.

He said: “Modern farming is diverse and often complex in nature. The demands on farming businesses are considerable, especially in a constantly changing policy and commercial landscape. The specialist consultancy I bring augments Savills rural expertise in the south west, enabling farmers and land owners to access extensive on-the-ground support across a broad range of land and property matters. In this fast-changing agricultural climate I see my role as helping to facilitate opportunities for our expanding client base of progressive farmers.

“I am thrilled to return to the west country and back to the family farm where I grew up.”

Michael Lock has also joined the south west team as an energy manager. Savills already operates a successful energy business across the UK and internationally, with a large team in Cardiff advising, procuring and managing energy and infrastructure projects. Michael’s appointment will introduce on-the-ground expertise and support for businesses in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset.

Michael brings more than 11 years in energy management, most recently working for an independent energy consultancy in the region.

Michael said: “Companies are under increased pressure to reduce energy consumption – from government and consumers alike. While short term measures may help to ensure legislative compliance, a good long-term strategy is what will make a real difference. Energy is now one of the top three business expenses, so savings impact the bottom line, as well as supporting improved CSR standards. I look forward to using my experience to help businesses achieve efficiencies, while realising financial savings.”

Simon Derby heads up Savills office in Taunton and said: “I am delighted to welcome Philip and Michael to our expert team. These two new appointments represent the continued growth of our local business, built on a track record of success in supporting a diverse range of businesses within the south west region.”