Leading independent UK accountancy and business advisory firm Johnston Carmichael has strengthened its leadership team with eight senior appointments across the business.

The move forms part of its continued investment in developing future leaders and building a lasting legacy ahead of the firm’s 90th anniversary next year.

Among a total of 88 promotions across the firm this December, the latest appointments include two new partners and six new directors. In Glasgow, Thuy Vo has been promoted to Audit Partner within the Financial Services Audit team, and Gavin Weanie becomes Corporate Finance Partner.

Thuy brings over two decades of experience in investment management, specialising in alternative investment funds primarily invested in real estate, private equity and infrastructure. She has led audits for Public Interest Entities and works with a diverse portfolio of private equity funds, venture capital trusts and asset managers. Combining deep technical expertise with commercial insight, she supports clients with audit requirements and risk management while ensuring compliance with professional standards.

Gavin specialises in lead advisory and due diligence services across a range of industry sectors, with over ten years’ M&A experience. He joined Johnston Carmichael in 2019, following seven years at a Big Four firm, and has led a variety of high-profile transactions involving owner-managed businesses, private equity and corporates. An established and trusted adviser to clients, he is recognised for his collaborative approach, technical skill and commitment to delivering successful outcomes.

The six Director promotions are Dean Moore (Audit) and Sarah Bedford (Restructuring) in Glasgow, Alison Cooper (Business Support) in Inverness, Nicola Sargeant (Private Client Tax) in Forfar, Stephanie Shand (née Allardes) (Audit) in Elgin and James Hurst (VAT), as the firm strengthens in key areas across the business.

This brings the total promotions in the firm to 181 in 2025. These promotions underline Johnston Carmichael’s commitment to investing in its people and fostering a culture of growth and opportunity. The firm is proud to have been accredited as a Great Place to Work and has since built on its certification with a listing in Great Place to Work’s 2025 Best Workplaces for development.

Through initiatives such as the JC Impact Fund, which supports employees to fund and support charitable projects close to their hearts, and its in-house LOV (Living Our Values) Awards, Johnston Carmichael continues to celebrate and invest in its people, empowering them to deliver lasting impact for clients and communities across the UK.  

Lynne Walker, CEO of Johnston Carmichael, said: “We’re proud to celebrate these senior appointments and the many others across our business this year. Our people are what make Johnston Carmichael the firm it is today, and these promotions reflect the depth of talent, expertise and ambition we’re building for the future.

“As we approach our 90th anniversary, we remain focused on providing a platform where our people can build great careers, develop their leadership skills, and make a real difference for our clients and communities.”

Mark Houston, Senior Partner and Chair of Johnston Carmichael, added: “Thuy, Gavin and our new directors embody the values and ambition that define Johnston Carmichael. Each has shown exceptional leadership, driving our firm forward through collaboration, quality, and care for our clients and communities. I congratulate all those who have been promoted on this well-deserved recognition.”