Champion appoints new audit assistant manager in Manchester

Champion Accountants has announced the appointment of Elizabeth Dutton as audit assistant manager at its Manchester headquarters. 

This latest appointment reflects the firm’s continued growth in its audit division, which acts for a range of businesses from £250k to more than £70m turnover, including companies choosing voluntary audits for additional assurance. Champion has offices in Manchester, Chester, Preston and Blackpool. 

A chartered accountant and first-class Business Accounting and Finance graduate, Dutton has joined from PwC where she worked as a senior associate auditor. At PwC she led audit teams, managed complex projects and contributed to the training of junior staff. 

In her new role at Champion, Dutton will contribute to the firm’s Digital Council by supporting work on how AI and emerging technologies can be applied safely and effectively across its operations. 

Ged Cosgrove, group managing partner at Champion Accountants, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Elizabeth. She has already proven to be a valuable addition, bringing fresh expertise in digital technologies that will help keep our audit services at the forefront of innovation.

“With the sector facing a well-documented shortage of audit talent, her appointment ensures we remain well-placed to support the growing needs of our clients while continuing to invest in the next generation of talent.”

Dutton added: “It’s been incredible to join Champion and feel so welcomed by the team. I’m looking forward to working with such a wide-ranging portfolio of clients and learning from the wealth of experience around me.

“What really stood out to me is Champion’s people-first approach. Unlike some firms where AI adoption has reduced trainee opportunities, Champion is committed to keeping human expertise at the core of its service. For me, that means being part of a business that values both innovation and people – a place where I can grow while helping to shape the future of the firm.”