EY appoints new head of private and associate director in the Midlands

EY has strengthened its private team in the Midlands with the appointment of Olivia Prew as new head of private and Hannah Al-Anazi as new associate director for private and mid-market.

Prew brings nearly two decades of experience, working extensively with private businesses, entrepreneurs and mid-market private equity clients, helping them to achieve their strategic aspirations and create long-term value. 

Prior to joining EY, she was head of origination at international corporate finance advisor, Clearwater. 

Regarding her appointment, Prew said: “I am delighted to join EY in the Midlands – the region is home to a range of dynamic businesses, management teams and entrepreneurs. In this ever-changing and complex business environment, there is increasing demand from entrepreneurs and management teams to partner with advisors who understand their needs and are able to offer high quality advice and solutions. 

“The strength and experience of EY’s team, understanding of the local market and international reach, means we are ideally positioned to support clients in navigating their individual challenges and growth journeys.”

Al-Anazi joins EY as associate director, bringing experience in executive search and leadership advisory. She has spent over a decade working on global mandates focusing on positions spanning across finance, cyber, ESG/sustainability and life sciences. 

Most recently, she worked in a strategic leadership consultancy that provided advisory-led services for owner managed businesses, as well as private equity funds and their portfolio companies, pre-deal and post-deal. 

Al-Anazi said: “I am excited to contribute to the expansion of our presence in the Midlands and look forward to collaborating with our team to provide insights and strategies that drive growth and enhance operational effectiveness for privately-owned businesses.”

Prew and Al-Anazi both join Anisha Patel in the private team, focusing on originating and building relationships with both new and existing clients in the mid-market. 

Simon O’Neill, EY’s managing partner for the Midlands, added: “Olivia and Hannah’s appointments come at a pivotal time as EY continues to strengthen its Private team in the Midlands. Their extensive experience and strong networks in the Midlands will be invaluable as we continue to support our clients in executing their strategies in an ever-evolving market. We are thrilled to welcome them to the team.”