MHA has announced the appointment of Dean Alexander Hughes as Head of Business Consulting. This a new role for the firm and highlights its ambitious plans for advisory.

Dean will be working alongside new colleagues in the UK and across MHA’s international footprint, helping clients optimise their businesses today and prepare for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

The multidisciplinary consulting practice will cover five key areas:

• Strategy & Innovation
• Operational Excellence
• Data & Technology
• Culture & Engagement
• Business Risk & Resilience

Dean is a seasoned risk professional and business leader, bringing over 20 years of expertise across both corporate and professional services spanning executive, advisory, and operational roles across global organisations.

He has launched and scaled technology and consultancy businesses, and has supported established international organisations in achieving profitable, resilient and sustainable growth.

Before joining MHA, Dean was part of the Senior Leadership Team at DLA Piper International and led the International Risk Group and previously served as a Partner and Practice Head at Barnett Waddingham (now part of Howden).

Dean said: “This feels like a full circle as earlier in my career I was delivering consulting, technology and training services to Rakesh Shaunak and the firm. I am now honoured to be part of the amazing journey of MHA and contribute to the firm’s next chapter in advisory and growth.”

Rakesh Shaunak, CEO of MHA, said: “I am delighted to welcome Dean to MHA and look forward to working with him as we embark on the launch of our Business Consulting service line, supporting clients in achieving operational excellence and resilience through strategic advisory and transformation delivery.”

Founded in 1869, MHA is a leading professional services provider of audit and assurance, tax, accountancy and advisory services, based in the UK with an international presence. Among its 30 locations, MHA has offices in Aberdeen and Edinburgh.