Knight Frank hires Scottish business rates expert in Scotland

By Danielle Reed 27/05/2026 3 min read 19 views

Knight Frank has appointed Steve Dunbar as a specialist in Scottish business rates, marking a new focus for the firm in Aberdeen. Dunbar will oversee a dedicated service aimed at helping clients manage local property tax obligations. The move comes as demand for expert guidance on complex rate calculations and compliance grows across the UK.

Dunbar brings over a decade of experience in commercial property taxation, previously working with firms in Edinburgh and Glasgow. His role will involve advising businesses on rateable values, exemptions, and appeals processes. The service is expected to launch within the next three months, with initial clients drawn from the energy and manufacturing sectors.

Aberdeen’s business rates landscape has become increasingly intricate due to recent legislative changes. Local authorities have introduced stricter guidelines for property valuations, prompting companies to seek specialized support. Dunbar’s background in navigating these challenges positions him to address client needs directly.

The firm’s expansion into this niche follows a broader trend of companies investing in localized expertise. It reported a 22% increase in property tax-related inquiries last year, according to internal data. This growth has been driven by uncertainty around rate reforms and the need for accurate compliance strategies.

The new service will operate from a dedicated office in Aberdeen, with Dunbar reporting to the firm’s UK head of property consulting. Initial projects will focus on auditing existing rateable values and identifying potential savings for clients. The team will also monitor upcoming changes to the Scottish Business Rates Reform Bill, expected to pass by year-end.

Local business leaders have noted the rising complexity of rate calculations, particularly for mixed-use properties. “There’s a clear gap in the market for someone who understands both the technical and regulatory sides,” said one council official, speaking on condition of anonymity. “This could help reduce errors in filings and lower penalties for businesses.”

The decision to hire Dunbar reflects a strategic shift toward proactive client support. The firm previously relied on generalists to handle tax issues, but recent feedback from clients emphasized the need for deeper expertise. Dunbar’s appointment is part of a larger initiative to expand specialized services in Scotland by 2027.

The property sector in the city has faced unique challenges due to fluctuating oil prices and shifting economic priorities. Businesses in the region have expressed concerns about inconsistent rate assessments, which can distort financial planning. Dunbar’s team will work to standardize processes and improve transparency.

While the service is still in its early stages, the firm has already secured commitments from several mid-sized firms. One client, a renewable energy company, cited the need for “clear, actionable guidance” on rate appeals. The firm plans to publish case studies later this year to demonstrate the service’s impact.

The hiring highlights the growing role of property tax specialists in the UK. Industry analysts predict that demand for such expertise will rise by 18% annually over the next five years. The firm’s move positions it to capture a larger share of this market, particularly in regions with complex regulatory environments.

Despite the focus on growth, the firm has emphasized that the new service will not replace existing advisory roles. Instead, it will complement broader property management offerings, including lease negotiations and investment due diligence. Dunbar’s team will collaborate closely with other departments to provide integrated solutions.

Local authorities have welcomed the increased scrutiny of rate calculations, though some critics argue that more resources are needed to support smaller businesses. The service aims to bridge this gap by offering scalable support, from individual consultations to large-scale audits.

The long-term success of the initiative will depend on Dunbar’s ability to build trust with clients and adapt to evolving regulations. The firm has not disclosed financial details of the hiring, but industry sources suggest the package includes a competitive salary and performance-based incentives.