Accountancy group EY has appointed John Howarth as a new equity partner in its regional office as part of its expansion plans across the South West & Wales.
John, pictured, has become an audit partner in the firm’s assurance practice in Bristol, moving from EY’s Reading office where he was an executive director for just over a year. 
Prior to that he worked at rival ‘big four’ accountancy firm PwC.
John has spent much of his 16-year accounting career focusing on entrepreneurial companies, predominantly in the consumer products, technology, defence and pharmaceutical industries.
He also brings international experience having worked in the US and Australasia. During that time he worked with listed companies across a range of domestic and overseas markets as well as advising companies on transactions ranging from initial public offerings to new acquisitions.
His key focus will be on growing EY’s presence with listed mid-market and privately owned businesses in the region.
John’s appointment is one of 62 equity partners to EY’s UK business.
EY South West & Wales senior partner Richard Jones said: “John’s appointment demonstrates EY’s commitment to Bristol and the wider South West region and reflects our strong pipeline of high-quality people, whose wealth of experience and talent enables us to respond to the global demands of our clients in a complex environment.
“We have big ambitions for our regional business and as a new partner John will have an important role to play in helping us achieve these goals and build a better working world.”
EY employs more than 350 people at its Bristol office.
