HLB Mann Judd names 4 partners, 6 directors

HLB Mann Judd has strengthened its leadership team across multiple offices in its Australasian association with the appointment of four new partners and six new directors, effective 1 July.

The four appointed partners would be set to work across the assurance and advisory, wealth management and tax consulting sectors to grow the firm’s offerings and leadership expertise.

HLB welcomed Ronnie Calligeros, Lindzi Caputo, Marcus Polovineo and Simon Thorpe as partners in the Robina and Sydney offices.

Tony Fittler, HLB Mann Judd Australasian association chair, said the partner appointments marked HLB’s commitment to evolving alongside the accounting industry.

“Appointing four new partners marks a significant milestone in the association’s growth journey. The accounting profession has been evolving over the last few years, and we remain firmly focused on what matters most, our people and our clients,” Fittler said.

In addition to the four partners, HLB named six new directors to strengthen multiple sectors across the Sydney and Perth offices, such as wealth management, assurance and advisory, tax advisory services, as well as corporate and audit services practices.

HLB Sydney named Emma Hicks, Katie Bruce and Lachlan Bell as its newly promoted directors, all with extensive experience in their respective fields.

In Perth, Dylan Sheard, Brendan Bate and Don Tyrie were named the branch’s new directors for the financial year.

Fittler said while the HLB association was welcoming new partners and directors, it also saw the retirement of Kevin Franey, assurance and advisory partner based in Robina.

Franey was noted to have been a partner at HLB Mann Judd for almost 40 years and delivered insights and audit expertise to clients across financial institutions, large corporates, higher education, cooperatives, health and community services, as well as not-for-profits.

Fittler said Franey was leaving the organisation with an “extraordinary legacy of leadership, integrity and dedication”.

“He has been a genuine pleasure to work with and we will all miss him. His contribution has shaped not only our organisation, but also the careers and lives of so many colleagues and clients,” Fittler said.

“We thank Kevin for his service and wish him the best in his retirement.”

Speaking about his retirement, Franey said he had enjoyed his 35-year career at HLB, working and interacting with clients and mentors.

“I would like to thank the great people at HLB Mann Judd who have provided great assistance and leadership. A very special mention goes to all of the amazing Partners and Staff in our team at HLB Mann Judd Gold Coast & Northern Rivers and TNR,” Franey said.

“They are dedicated, caring and highly professional people who are beside you through thick and thin. Of course, none of this could have happened without the love and support of my beautiful wife and children, who have stood by me through the highs and lows. I will miss you all and I wish everyone the very best.”