We are MHA; the accountants and tax advisors that don’t just talk about putting people first, we live it.
There is power in our people, both those we work with and those we work for. However, we are ‘people-first’ and not ‘person-first’, as we understand that our success, and that of our clients, stem from the combined strength of our teams.
In this manner, MHA’s true worth lies in how we nurture our people, clients and communities. Across our 20 UK offices, we’ve created an environment where talent is celebrated, ideas are exchanged and growth happens as a united force.
Our new office at the Pinnacle in Milton Keynes reflects this. Although the modern rooms and sleek amenities are an outward symbol of our transformation, the real change is displayed through the journeys of our people.
The stories below, of Victoria Brown, Nathan Sutcliffe and Robert Butler, who have all grown into Partners, highlight MHA’s commitment to supporting individuals in building their careers and contributing to the firm’s success.
Nathan Sutcliffe
Nathan Sutcliffe, the youngest Tax Partner at MHA, started his career directly after leaving school in 2011. As many 18-year-olds would be, he was initially anxious about the world of work.
“Like a lot of people when they start a new job, I didn’t really understand the value of what I was doing,” he said. “I wondered why people were paying me to sit at a desk. But that soon changed when I started working alongside colleagues further into their careers.”
Nathan credits his growth to mentors like Rachel Nutt and Colin Brogan, who guided him through early challenges and provided excellent training.
“I learned a lot at the beginning, but one thing that always stuck with me was how my colleagues treated their clients and fellow employees: both with the utmost respect, care and attention. Likewise, I want my clients and colleagues to put their head on the pillow at night, and not think, for a second, about what we’ve discussed during the day. They’ll be assured that I’m taking care of it, and all is in good hands.”
His approach to social responsibility heightens this, believing in ethical tax advice and professional standards that uphold integrity in the industry.
Nathan sees great opportunity in MHA’s future, particularly in expanding its corporate services.
“It’s about giving clients expert and seasoned advice. We’ve built depth in our specialisms, and this gives us a strong platform to serve clients we may not have worked with a few years ago.”
Robert Butler
Robert Butler, Partner at MHA, reflects on his 18-year jour- ney with the firm, starting as a school leaver, like Nathan, and growing into a leadership role.
“I was 16, studying accounting at school, and didn’t see the point of going to university. I wanted to dive straight in,” said Robert. “Like Nathan, I joined MHA shortly after my eighteenth birthday, and I’ve never looked back.”
When Robert first started at MHA, the Milton Keynes office was a small team of around 30 people. He recalls how quickly he felt a sense of belonging.
“It was incredibly close-knit, and everything felt natural,” he said. “There was always something new to get involved with. Whenever I was bored, I was given new tasks which helped broaden my experience.”
Throughout his career, Robert has benefitted from MHA’s strong focus on development.
“There’s a clear development plan for everyone, and the Milton Keynes partners, Martin Herron and Steve Moore, really supported me along the way. That guidance was key to my growth.”
As a Partner, Robert continues to prioritise the wellbeing of both colleagues and clients.
“I’m the People Operations Partner for the office, and everything we do is about the people. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of the team. The collaborative environment makes all the difference.”
Looking forward, Robert sees immense potential for MHA’s future, particularly in leadership development.
“We’re aiming to double in size in the next five years, which will bring tremendous opportunities for all to develop and enhance their careers”.
Victoria Brown
Victoria Brown, recently promoted to Audit Partner, has likewise seen first-hand the growth of MHA from her early days as a trainee.
When she first started at MHA, Victoria faced the challenges of being a young professional in an environment filled with senior, experienced colleagues. She said:
“I was nervous, especially when I was sent on client visits as a young trainee. But I was supported by my team, particularly Simon Knibbs, who explained things well beyond my level.”
This support, combined with her passion for the work, enabled her to excel and rise through the ranks.
“You can be good with numbers, but you need to be good with people, too. Talking to clients in difficult situations requires emotional intelligence.”
As a Partner, Victoria works to ensure her team feels supported and places a great emphasis on social responsibility, particularly when supporting young professionals.
“We take on beginners with minimal experience and walk alongside them through their careers. Mental health is always in the back of my mind, especially for younger employees, and it’s something we need to manage with care.”
For Victoria, the future of MHA is all about change and growth.
“The firm has grown significantly in the past five years. Change is constant, and I’m excited to see where it takes us.”
Supporting future leaders
At MHA, we are deeply committed to supporting local talent. We receive thousands of applications for trainee positions, with over 8,000 applicants in the most recent cycle. Trainees are integrated into the business from day one, given real responsibilities, and work closely with sen- ior colleagues across departments.
For those interested in joining MHA, Victoria, who interviews trainees, offers this advice: “Everyone who interviews with MHA is intelligent. You’ve worked hard, you’ve got the grades and you’ve motivated yourself to apply for a role with us. So, when candidates are sitting across from me for the first time, I take particular interest in those who can look me in the eye and hold a conversation.
“I’m always thinking to myself, ‘would I put this person in front of a client?.’ If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track.” As MHA continues to grow, we remain committed to our people, and our success is rooted in the dedication and passion of our team. We look forward to the continued success of our people and our firm, embracing opportunities for growth, community involvement and professional excellence, now, for tomorrow.
Liz Newell Partner – MHA
To find out more about MHA visit the website here
