Tributes have been paid to Abi Godrey, a director of Grant Thornton’s North West corporate finance business, who has died at the age of 34
Godfrey, who led the company’s national pharma and life sciences sector, joined Grant Thornton in 2024 after 11 years at Deloitte.
Peter Terry, a partner at Grant Thornton UK and practice lead in the North West, said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend and colleague Abi Godfrey, director in our North West corporate finance business, who led our national pharma and life sciences sector.
“As a young female leader just breaking through to partner at Grant Thornton, she was an inspiration and motivation to many, both inside and outside the firm.
“She had so many wonderful qualities – we will miss her energy, fun, kindness and humility. We hold her family, friends and colleagues in our thoughts at this most difficult of times.”
Other heartfelt tributes have poured in for Godfrey, who had more than nine years’ experience in M&A.
Kate Parker, partner in corporate M&A and private equity, at Addleshaw Goddard, said: “Abi was so kind, always positive and a real pleasure to be around. She was an inspiration to so many and will be missed.”
Steve Oliver, CEO and co-founder of musicMagpie, said: “Heartbroken to read this devastating news this morning. A hugely talented professional – Abi did a fantastic job on our public to private process whilst at Deloitte. But more than that, just a beautiful person, inside and out, who always had a smile and was always a pleasure to work with.”
Sam Bristow, CEO of DHT.health, said: “This is very, very sad news. She was a lovely person and an excellent professional. She will be missed.”
Nick Carr, a corporate finance partner at UHY Hacker Young, said: “This was such a shock Abi was a wonderful and kind person always ready to help.”
Michelle Heptinstall, senior director / business development (North), at ThinCats, said: “Deeply saddened to read this heartbreaking news about Abi. An incredible woman, with a smile that could light up the room.”
Ann-Marie Costello, a partner at Grant Thornton Ireland, said: “Abi was a real powerhouse.”
On her company profile, Godfrey listed her interests as going for long walks in the Lake District and skiing.