S&W strengthens consulting team with new partner appointment

S&W, the professional services group, has announced the appointment of Sophie Long as partner in its consulting team.

It said this strategic hire signals the firm’s “continued commitment” to expanding its consulting capabilities and delivering complementary services that support clients through complex and evolving challenges.

Long brings over 20 years of experience in financial services, including 12 years at Thistle Initiatives, a private equity-backed firm where she played a “pivotal role” in driving growth and shaping strategic direction. Her most recent leadership role gave her first-hand insight into scaling a business, managing investor relationships, and delivering strategic transformation in a fast-paced, investment-led environment.

In her new role at S&W, Long will work closely with clients to unlock growth, navigate change, and achieve their strategic goals. The firm said her “deep industry knowledge and commercially focused, empathetic approach” enable her to engage meaningfully with founders, executives, and boards.

Long said: “After an incredible journey at Thistle Initiatives, I’m excited to bring my experience into a new environment where I’ll be supporting clients through complex strategic challenges. S&W has a strong reputation for delivering high-impact advice, and I’m looking forward to helping build on that foundation creating meaningful value for our clients.”

Claire Burden, head of Consulting at S&W, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Sophie to the team. Her leadership experience and deep sector knowledge make her a valuable addition to our growing consulting practice in better supporting our clients. Sophie’s appointment reflects our ambition to continue building a highly experienced, industry leading team that delivers practical, high-impact advice, supporting complex clients through every stage of their journey.”