Summary
Armstrong Watson has appointed Louise Webster as audit and assurance partner at its new Manchester city centre office on Fountain Street. Webster, originally from Wigan, brings 25 years' experience from independent accountancy firm Fairhurst and will lead the growth of the firm's audit offering in Manchester. The appointment follows Armstrong Watson's relocation from Cheadle Royal and acquisition of ASE Professional Services in 2022.
Northern Gritstone, the Manchester-based early-stage life sciences and technology investment company, has promoted Simon Braham to chief investment officer, overseeing all investment activities. Braham joined the firm last September from Bridges, where he led Sustainable Growth Funds in the North. Northern Gritstone is also expanding its investment team with new hires James Bellis as portfolio director and Narjeet Singh as investment manager.
Freshfield, the strategic communications consultancy with offices in Manchester and Preston, has appointed Megan Leeming as senior PR and communications manager. Leeming joins from GRC Partners + Porter Novelli in New Zealand, where she advised senior leaders in regulated sectors including financial services and infrastructure.
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Common questions
- What is this article about?
- Three Greater Manchester-based businesses have announced key leadership moves. Armstrong Watson has appointed a new audit partner to its expanded Manchester office, Northern Gritstone has promoted its head of portfolio to chief investment officer, and Freshfield has hired a senior PR manager.
- When was this published?
- This article was published on 17 July 2026.
- Who published this article?
- This article was published by TheBusinessDesk.