Andrew Walker will take over from Sandy Manson, who has held the role for 12 years, during which time the business has expanded rapidly, growing revenue from £18m to £49m. The firm now employs 800 people across 12 locations. The firm is part of PKF UK, which is ranked 11th in the Accountancy Daily Top 75 Firms annual league table.

The change of leadership is part of the firm’s long-term succession plan which will also see the firm’s current chair, Andrew Shepherd, stepping down after eight years in the role. He will remain at the firm in a client facing role as well as supporting the development of the next generation of talent.

Manson will take up the role of chair of the firm and will also become head of client service.

Since joining the business in 2003 and becoming managing partner of the Aberdeen office in 2007, Walker has played an important role in the leadership of the firm and has been a member of the board for 11 years.

As well as leading Johnston Carmichael’s digital strategy, he also played an integral part with the setting up of the firm’s latest office in Dundee.

As CEO, he will continue to grow and diversify the business with a focus on developing Johnston Carmichael’s talent pipeline and driving investment in digital technology.

Walker said: ‘It is a great honour to take over the role of CEO from Sandy and build on Johnston Carmichael’s strong track record as Scotland’s leading independent accountancy firm.

‘Our profession is going through a lot of change and we as a firm need to keep evolving, improving and investing to take advantage of the exciting opportunities which exist for a leading independent firm of our national scale.

‘Our talent pipeline is stronger than ever because of our long-term focus on succession planning and I am looking forward to harnessing that energy and expertise as we take the business to the next level.’

Commenting on his legacy, Manson said: ‘It has been a huge privilege to serve such a talented and able team of people and the continued success of our firm is all down to our people and the energy and dedication they bring in delivering for our clients each and every day. What they have delivered over the last 12 years has surpassed my expectations at every turn.

‘If today the Johnston Carmichael brand and what we stand for is more respected and recognised than ever before then that is a legacy I am very proud to have played my part in building.

‘I have never been more positive and excited about the future of our firm and after 12 years now is the right time to hand on the baton to Andrew. With his considerable talents and experience, he will take this firm from strength to strength.’

Report by Sara White

Pictured left to right - Andrew Walker, Andrew Shepherd, Sandy Manson