Today’s news in brief – 3/4/2025
PwC has appointed Hugh Man as a corporate finance partner to strengthen its deals practice. Previously, he was managing director and head of EMEA Insurance at Jefferies International, advising on M&A, capital markets, and financing deals. With over 20 years of experience in insurance and financial services, Man will focus on M&A and capital raising in PwC’s London office. Lucy Stapleton, head of Deals, highlighted his deep sector expertise. Man expressed enthusiasm for leveraging PwC’s vast insurance capabilities to maximize client value, further reinforcing the firm’s leadership in the insurance M&A sector.
Nick Wright has been promoted to head of corporate tax at Jerroms Miller Specialist Tax, part of the Sumer Group, succeeding co-founder Pete Miller. Wright, who has been with the firm since 2022, will lead the team, expand its tax advisory services, and host the ‘Tax Hour’ podcast. Miller will transition to technical director, focusing on mentoring and maintaining the firm’s technical excellence. Wright aims to drive strategic growth and enhance the firm’s reputation. Miller expressed confidence in Wright’s leadership, stating the promotion was well-timed to further strengthen the firm’s tax advisory services.
Eleven leading accountancy firms have partnered with UK universities in a Purpose Coalition initiative to improve career accessibility in the profession. The project resulted in the Breaking Down Barriers to Accountancy report, presented in Parliament, outlining strategies for outreach, recruitment, and progression. Recommendations include targeting social mobility cold spots and fostering industry collaboration. Former education secretary Justine Greening emphasized the importance of making the profession inclusive. Crowe CEO Nigel Bostock praised the initiative for promoting social mobility and fostering a network of firms dedicated to reducing barriers to accountancy careers.
HB&O has expanded into Birmingham, marking its first presence in the city. The Midlands-based accountancy firm, with existing offices in Coventry and Leamington Spa, has moved into Northspring on Temple Street. HB&O primarily serves SMEs, not-for-profits, and owner-managed businesses, offering audit, tax advisory, and finance services. With over 100 employees, it plans to grow its audit and tax teams further. Managing director Mark Ashfield called the move a major investment milestone, aiming to strengthen HB&O’s reputation in the West Midlands and integrate into Birmingham’s business community while continuing operations in its existing locations.
