We’re welcoming Sharon Butler-Hughes to our Expert Witness and Assessment Services team

Since moving to our divisional model last year, we’ve been looking to add some additional financial expertise to our Expert Witness and Assessment Services team. But the perfect choice as the division’s new Financial Director was right under our noses the whole time.

Following in the footsteps of Sue Henry and Caroline Arrowsmith, we’re adding another familiar Speed Medical face to the board, building on a team dynamic that’s been solidified over years. That face is Sharon Butler-Hughes, and she’s delighted to be making the move to the divisional board.

Expert Witness and Assessment Services Financial Director – Sharon Butler Hughes

“It’s been a long time coming,” Sharon explains. “Whilst I’ve been with Speed Medical for eight years,  I’ve worked closely with other companies across the division, helping  with  resolution of any financial challenges, providing  expert oversight where appropriate – along with general support.”

Joining the group as part of Speed Medical’s financial team, Sharon played a key role in aligning many of the division’s companies with the way handl Group does business.

“I worked alongside Ian when we acquired many of the Expert Witness and Assessment Services companies – Harrisons, TG Associates, ACCA.  I’ve been quite involved with Foresight. But the evolution of Speed Medical has been my main focus. This is a chance for me to share what I’ve learned on that journey across the division as a whole.”

It’s also a chance for Sharon to reunite with a couple of old friends and colleagues.

“Sue (divisional MD) and Caroline (divisional CD) both started at Speed Medical too. We’ve worked closely together for years, and I think we’re a pretty good team!”

Sue agrees – explaining that as with Caroline, she’d landed her first pick for the position with a trusted colleague she couldn’t wait to collaborate with again:

“It’s great to see another familiar face from within the group join the divisional board. I’ve worked closely with Sharon during her time at Speed Medical, so I knew there was no need to look externally to fill the role. She was my first choice as FD, because of her wealth of experience. With her in place, we’ll be able to offer even more support to our divisional businesses.”

Sue Henry – Divisional MD

Sue’s not the only person happy to see someone with Sharon’s skillset in position. Group CFO Ian Robins is equally sure the division’s finances are in safe hands:

“I’m delighted that we have been able to appoint Sharon as Divisional FD.  She was the natural fit for the role having joined the group 8 years ago as Financial Controller for Speed Medical.  In the subsequent years she has led the Speed team successfully through industry challenges as well developing and overseeing very significant operational changes.  Latterly, she was able to assist other businesses within the Expert Witness division and this new appointment will enable her to support those businesses and assist the divisional board in developing and growing ever more successful businesses within their portfolio.”

Ian Robins – Group CFO

Sharon’s excited by what lies ahead. Familiar with the challenges faced by the division’s customers, and ready to roll up her sleeves and offer whatever help she can, she can see future success and growth on the horizon:

“My job here is to support and oversee financial compliance. There are  great people in place, and we need to protect that experience and build on it.  My role is to offer   complementary financial skills and commercial knowledge that brands need to grow.  Develop and retain strong relationships so we can be open and honest with customers about finances – and of course keep an eye on those all important numbers. Ensuring we are doing things the right way and remembering “Cash is king”.

There’s growth ahead for the whole handl Group, but with Sharon stepping up to support Sue, Caroline and all of the division’s businesses, we’re especially excited to see what the future holds for the Expert Witness and Assessment Services division.