Meet our leadership team

Adam Kene

Founder of Kene Partners

Adam previously held senior business development and consulting positions at the two largest R&D tax consultancies in Europe. Through this, he identified a clear need in the market to address fundamental service issues across the industry, from which Kene Partners was born. Centred around a client-first approach to guarantee maximum value, the business has since grown into an established, independent leader, with Adam at the helm.

As founder, Adam brings extensive knowledge and passion for helping UK innovation thrive. He currently sits on HMRC’s R&D Communication Forum and is at the forefront of the government legislation concerning R&D tax credits.

Joe McGurk

Managing Director

Joe joined us with over 10 years of tax experience, most recently as senior manager at one of the UK’s largest specialist R&D tax credit agencies. Previous to this, Joe gained his tax experience in advising owner managed businesses and high net-worth individuals. He understands that getting to know clients, their businesses and their accountants are key to a successful, lasting relationship.

Previously heading up our consulting team, Joe took over as managing director in early 2021. The opportunity to help UK businesses, of all shapes and sizes, access valuable cash incentives through the correct application of R&D tax credits is what makes Joe so passionate about his job.

Outside of work, Joe likes to spend time with his family at their home in the Cotswolds, watching rugby and seeing friends and family.

Sage Lakhani

Director - Consulting

Having started her career with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) London, Sage has previously held positions at two boutique tax consultancies, working with entrepreneurs and growing businesses across a range of sectors. Sage is also a qualified Chartered Tax Adviser.
Leading the consulting team, Sage specialises in the implementation of technically robust tax solutions. She helps her team to develop excellent processes and workflows, ensures consistent quality of delivery and maintains strong client relationships, all with flawless team management.

When not working, Sage enjoys running in all weather, Pilates and is a qualified personal trainer.

Ella Francis

Head of Operations

Ella has spent the majority of her career in financial services across both the private and public sector, most recently at the Department for International Trade (DIT). She has a wealth of experience coordinating across all departments within a business and liaising with their clients to bring about positive commercial and organisational change.

Passionate about helping companies to become more efficient and grow, Ella puts a strong focus on delivering great client service and strong relationship management with the help of her skilled team.

Outside of work, Ella enjoys spending time with her family and being by the sea.

Jeff Keyzer

Head of Business Development

Jeff graduated from the University of Johannesburg with a B.Com in Industrial Psychology, Human Movement Science and Business Management, before going on to complete his honours degree in Strategic Management.