South Coast: Milestone as HWB celebrates 30th anniversary

HWB, one of the largest independent accountancy firms in the region, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with exciting new plans for the future.

The Southampton firm is marking its milestone with a rebrand, prestigious new appointment and a key internal promotion to build for the next decade.

After 30 years of supporting regional businesses from corporates to start-ups and SMEs to schools, HWB now works with more than 1,200 business clients and employs a team of 50 staff.

Its next appointment is David Brookes, formerly an audit partner with Baker Tilly. Brookes brings 30 years of experience, knowledge and contacts to the HWB team with expertise in property and construction, the marine sector, distribution businesses and manufacturers plus charity and pensions sectors.

His wealth of knowledge and connections in the regional business community enables him to help firms with their growth strategies.

The firm has also promoted Gary Brown to associate director.  Chartered accountant and business adviser, Brown joined HWB in 2006 and has developed an extensive portfolio of clients with a specialism in professional service firms.

Managing director Geoff Rhodes said: “Despite being in business for three decades, we are always looking for ways to push the firm on and deliver even better service for clients.

“Talented professionals are our rockbed so we’re always looking for people to bring new dimensions to the team. The promotion of Gary and the appointment of David are our latest investments and we are good at developing new talent.”

One of the three founding directors, Alan Williams, said: “We’re really looking forward to turning the page on the next chapter in the history of the business.

“Every aspect of our brand has a new look and feel. But our principles are the same as they’ve always been – to take a proactive approach to every client’s business, working alongside them as business advisers as well as accountants. We act as a sounding board, becoming a business ally, offering creative and consultative advice – and, of course, delivering value.”