Hampshire: HWB recruits Michaela Johns as director

HWB, one the south’s largest independent accountancy firms, has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Michaela Johns as a director. She joins HWB from RSM where she has been a partner for more than a decade. Her focus will be working on business strategy, development and growth with owner-managed businesses.

Johns also has significant experience working with charities, independent schools, academies and other not-for-profit organisations. HWB has a strong client base in these sectors and is the leading academy school audit practice in Hampshire, working with many of the regions academies.

Johns said: “I really want to get back to working with OMBs, family businesses and entrepreneurial ventures. I also wanted to continue working with independent schools, academies and charities. HWB is not only a highly-respected independent firm, but they also have a strong client base in these markets so the firm was a first choice for me when looking to take the next exciting step in my career.

“Working with business owners is really rewarding – it’s much more about being a business adviser rather than an accountant. You also develop strong relationships with the management teams – I’m currently acting for fourth and fifth-generation businesses."

Geoff Rhodes, managing director at HWB, said: “This is a significant appointment for us.  It reflects our commitment to continue working closely with owner-managed businesses in the region and enhance our expertise in the education and not-for-profit sectors.

“Michaela’s expertise and experience make her a perfect fit for us and we are delighted to welcome her to the team.”