Johnston Carmichael announces four partner promotions

Leading UK accountancy and business advisory firm Johnston Carmichael has strengthened its leadership team with the promotion of four new partners and a director as part of its latest round of promotions.

The firm has elevated 65 people this month alone, adding to the 97 promotions earlier this year, accounting for almost 20 per cent of its workforce.

The new partners include Lesley Hopwood, who transitions from chief financial officer to chief operating officer, continuing her journey with the firm that began as a graduate in 2011. Chief people officer Martin Osler, who joined in 2021, now takes on additional responsibilities, further shaping the firm’s people and culture strategy.

Meanwhile, private client tax specialist Max Chassels, based in Aberdeen, brings extensive expertise in advising on MBOs, MBIs, and management incentive plans. Fellow Aberdeen-based audit specialist Jenny Junnier adds her deep knowledge of private finance initiative entities and North East corporates in the energy transition sector.

Additionally, Glasgow-based Claire Forrest, who joined the firm in 2022, has been promoted to business advisory director, overseeing nearly 170 clients.

These promotions underscore Johnston Carmichael’s commitment to nurturing talent and delivering excellence across its service offerings.

Lynne Walker, chief executive officer at Johnston Carmichael, said: “It is hugely exciting to be promoting so much talent across the firm and we are especially proud to welcome four new partners and a director to our leadership team.

“At Johnston Carmichael, we encourage our people to be leaders of their own learning and careers. Lesley, Martin, Max, Jenny and Claire are great examples of this approach as experts in their respective disciplines, but what makes them stand out is the abundance of energy and innovation they bring to the business and the impact they have.

“Each plays a vital role in enabling us to provide the high-quality client services for which we are renowned in the marketplace and ensuring our ongoing success.

“As we build on our legacy across the UK, our newly promoted people will help us to continue to create enduring impact for our clients, communities and colleagues.

Mark Houston, senior partner and chair of Johnston Carmichael, added: “At Johnston Carmichael, we take great pride in fostering the next generation of business leaders, recognising that their development is essential to our ongoing success.

“The promotions of Lesley, Martin, Max, Jenny and Claire are a testament to their skills, dedication, and collaborative efforts in driving our refreshed strategy and supporting our continued growth across the UK.”

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