Today’s news in brief – 12/3/2025
Deloitte has named Suresh Kanwar as the new UK Financial Services managing partner, effective 1 March. Kanwar, who also joins Deloitte UK’s executive team, has over 25 years of experience advising major financial institutions. Previously, he led Deloitte UK’s Banking and Capital Markets team and was a managing director at Accenture. He succeeds Richard Hammell, who transitions to Clients and Markets leader. Kanwar aims to enhance Deloitte’s services in an evolving financial landscape. Deloitte UK CEO Richard Houston praised Kanwar’s expertise in global transformation projects, emphasizing his ability to support clients in a complex and changing market.
Derby-based Vibrant Accountancy has expanded its team with three key appointments. Dawn Ford joins as client manager, while Hana Chatwin and Amie Fellows become associate directors. Ford previously worked at Alexander Accountancy, Chatwin trained at Cooper Parry, and Fellows was promoted from head of operations. The firm, now a team of 12, is actively recruiting two additional members. Founder Bev Wakefield highlighted the firm’s commitment to supporting local businesses. Fellows will focus on strategic growth, while Ford and Chatwin aim to strengthen client partnerships. The new hires align with Vibrant’s goal of fostering business success in Derby and Derbyshire.
Forvis Mazars has appointed Lisa Pennington as an accounting and outsourcing partner in its UK healthcare team. Based in Manchester, Pennington joined in 2023 and has since led compliance and advisory services for medical clients, including GP practices and primary care networks. She brings 20 years of healthcare finance experience and serves on the ICAEW healthcare advisory group panel. In her new role, she will focus on expanding the firm’s healthcare services. Partner Laura Clarkson praised Pennington’s expertise, stating that her leadership will strengthen Forvis Mazars’ ability to meet evolving client needs in the healthcare and life sciences sector.
Translink Corporate Finance UK has appointed Alex Archer and Lauren Woodward as corporate finance executives. Based in Leeds and Sheffield, they will support Translink’s cross-border deals. Archer, with five years of audit and assurance experience, previously worked with SMEs and multinational firms across various industries. Woodward, formerly in BHP’s audit department, has experience in business services and industrials. Archer expressed excitement about working on global deals, while Woodward highlighted the opportunity to collaborate with experienced professionals. Both aim to contribute to Translink’s mid-market M&A success and enhance client service through industry insights and strategic financial solutions.
