On Friday 19 September, Spence Clarke marked its 40th anniversary with a spectacular celebration at the elegant Garum Restaurant, located on the Paseo Marítimo in Marbella. Guests were immediately captivated by a striking performer on stilts, adorned with mirrors, who greeted everyone at the entrance with poise and grace, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.
The party was alive with extraordinary entertainment. A talented saxophone player provided a smooth soundtrack, while a magician amazed the audience with clever illusions. Guests cheered as a “Michael Jackson” impersonator delivered iconic moves and a fire performer enthralled everyone with daring, breathtaking displays. Throughout the evening, delicious vegan tapas, prepared with care and reflecting the firm’s values, were served alongside a wide variety of drinks, creating a lively, festive atmosphere. Laughter, applause, and lively conversations filled the room as guests mingled and celebrated together.
The evening featured speeches from the firm’s partners. Miguel Ángel Blanca reflected on his 23 years with Spence Clarke, describing it as “almost a lifetime” and recalling how setting up the UK company in just 24 hours changed his life, giving him a global perspective and invaluable lessons from Alistair Spence Clarke, one of the founding partners as his mentor. Miguel Angel spoke of the skills and values he gained from Susan Spence Clarke the other founding partner: accuracy, precision, management, and responsibility; and expressed admiration for his fellow partner, Claudia Vargas Puccio, praising her diligence and hardworking nature. Highlighting the firm’s guiding principle of “communication, communication, and communication,” he underlined the team’s effort to provide clear and practical advice to help clients navigate the Spanish system with minimal disruption. Miguel Angel also noted that forty years have brought both good and difficult times, but that the firm’s resilience comes from the support of clients, staff, and collaborators. Finally, he offered heartfelt thanks to his spouse, Ana for her patience, support, and encouragement, recognising that without her he would not be where he is today.
Following this, Claudia Vargas Puccio delivered a heartfelt speech summarising her 27 years with the firm. She recounted her journey from her first interview with Sue to becoming a partner, emphasising the mentorship of the founding partners and the family-like spirit they fostered. Claudia warmly celebrated the firm’s diverse and talented staff, noting their energy, creativity, and commitment as the driving force behind Spence Clarke today and in the future. She shared a personal story of being supported as a single parent, highlighting the firm’s forward-thinking approach to flexible working. Claudia also highlighted the firm’s involvement with charitable initiatives, such as sponsoring two siblings rescued from Tanzania, and the commitment to vegan practices as part of a responsible and compassionate ethos. She concluded by reaffirming the firm’s mission to assist clients in navigating life in Spain and expressed sincere gratitude for the trust and friendship of those who have been part of the Spence Clarke journey.
After the partners’ speeches, the founding partners, Susan and Alistair Spence Clarke, addressed the guests. They thanked clients, staff, and partners for attending, celebrated the firm’s achievements in Spain, and acknowledged the contributions of their Spanish professional colleagues. They also expressed appreciation to Claudia and Miguel Ángel for their kind words. Alistair took the opportunity to thank Susan personally, and Susan concluded with heartfelt thanks to everyone present, celebrating the collective effort that has enabled Spence Clarke to thrive over the past forty years.
The remainder of the evening was filled with music, laughter, and lively celebration. Guests danced, applauded, and enjoyed the spectacular performances, sharing in the festive atmosphere. It was a truly memorable occasion, where the goal of commemorating forty remarkable years of Spence Clarke was fully achieved. The event perfectly reflected the firm’s values, its commitment to clients and staff, and the vibrant sense of community that continues to define its success.
