Southampton: EY appoints new office managing partner

EY has appointed Dave Hales as the new office managing partner in Southampton as the firm looks to strengthen its growing presence across the South Coast.

Hales is a partner in EY’s assurance practice and has moved from the firm’s Reading office to take on the role of office managing partner in Southampton. He takes over the role from Geraint Davies, who is transferring to EY Malta to run its assurance practice.

Having worked for EY for over 30 years, Hales has worked with a varied portfolio of clients across a number of sectors including FMCG, healthcare, life sciences, technology and high tech manufacturing. He has worked with many privately owned, PE-backed and listed businesses and is able to draw on a wide range of UK and international experience. Hales also previously led the firm’s EY Entrepreneur Of The Year programme across the South region, working with entrepreneurs and fast-growth businesses.

Hales said: “Our Southampton practice has gone from strength to strength, reflecting the continued investment we’re making in our people, business and brand locally. The South Coast is a great place for businesses to invest and grow and I’m looking forward to working with more of the region’s local businesses to support them with their growth ambitions, as we look to expand our mid-market business across the region.”

Debbie O’Hanlon, national markets leader at EY, said: "Dave is an excellent choice to lead EY’s business and team in Southampton. He brings extensive knowledge of the local market and the experience and determination to help the region grow and succeed. We continue to focus investment in regional practices outside of London and I’m excited about EY’s expansion ambitions across the South Coast under Dave’s leadership.”

EY employs over 700 people across the Thames Valley and South Coast, based from two offices in Reading and Southampton.