R&D Manager
Leo French
I value building long-standing relationships with clients to understand their needs and gain extensive knowledge of their business and technologies.
I have worked with companies varying massively in both size and industry, from R&D-intensive SMEs to market-leading FTSE 100 firms. My industry experience, combined with a strong technical background and deep understanding of the relevant tax legislation, enables me to provide expert strategic advice and support to clients throughout the entire process.
My main focus is ensuring companies get the maximum advantage of the UK government’s R&D Tax incentive schemes by working closely with clients in identifying eligible R&D activities, documenting and submitting claims to HMRC, whilst ensuring compliance with regulations. I work with clients to prepare detailed reports that accurately identify and quantify qualifying R&D activities and expenditure within commercial R&D projects. I strive to make the preparation and submission of claims as easy as possible for my clients, ensuring they are robust and defensible.
If you’re interested…
I graduated from the University of Bath in 2017 with a degree in Natural Sciences, majoring in Chemistry. My degree included an industrial placement year in industry, where I worked in a lab researching organic solar cell technologies. After University I joined a boutique consultancy providing R&D Tax Relief, Patent Box, and IP Planning services to UK companies. Parting ways after five years in the position of Lead Consultant, I joined Gerald Edelman in 2023 as an R&D Manager.
What is the most exciting thing on your bucket list?
I would love to travel to and set foot on Antarctica with my family one day.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be?
Bill Bailey, he’s a wonderfully surreal comedian, actor and musician – he’d have some hilarious stories for sure.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Time travel, there is so much knowledge lost to the sands of time that would be great to discover. I’m interested in military history so I’d have to stop off and watch some legendary battles.
Who inspires you?
Christopher Nolan inspires me through the films he produces with a unique vision, masterful storytelling and thought-provoking themes. He isn’t afraid to explore complex ideas that often challenge your perception of reality and the universe.
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