An exciting new chapter begins for Sterling Partners SW&A Accountants this month as they announce the appointment of James Howard as the new Managing Partner, coinciding with a rebrand and renaming of the firm to Sysum Howard Duggan.
James, one of the youngest ever to become a partner at Haines Watts at just 33, brings extensive experience, a passion for advisory work and a strong corporate background. Worcestershire born and bred and a qualified Chartered Accountant, James has long worked alongside SW&A founder Neil Sysum and the Board of Directors, Helen Sysum and Liz Duggan. Although they were once competitors, having known each other professionally for over a decade, they have long shared a collaborative approach to helping local businesses thrive, making this new partnership a natural next step for the firm.
James comments: “Being part of my own accountancy firm is something I’ve always aspired to in my career. Joining SW&A and transforming it into Sysum Howard Duggan gives me the opportunity to achieve this alongside people I know and trust, and to build on the incredible foundation Neil, Helen and Liz have created to help our clients grow and succeed.”
The rebrand – and James’s appointment – reflects the firm’s broader vision: expanding services beyond compliance to deliver holistic, strategic advice for businesses of all sizes, from start-ups to high-growth companies, providing board-level support and advising on management buy-outs, business development and acquisitions. Neil adds: “As a holistic firm, having James on board – alongside our new identity – gives us huge potential to reach new markets, take on larger clients, and continue providing the local, personal service our clients trust.”
Liz Duggan adds: “I’m very proud to have my name recognised in the rebrand to Sysum Howard Duggan. It’s been a privilege to play a part in SW&A’s growth over the past 15 years – five as a member of the Board – and have confidence that our company will go on to do more great things with the introduction of James as the Managing Partner in our team.”
Importantly, James joins Sysum Howard Duggan as an owner-operator, taking an active leadership role in the business alongside Neil, Helen and Liz. “This isn’t a buy-out or a merger,” he stresses. “We’re building on the strong foundation that’s already here, keeping the firm local and personal, while bringing fresh energy and expertise. Being directly involved in the day-to-day allows me to shape the firm in a way that best serves our clients and the Worcestershire business community.”
Sysum Howard Duggan’s Head Office remains firmly rooted in Worcestershire, with the firm’s licensed trade work undertaken through its Newmarket office. As a whole, the firm remains committed to nurturing strong relationships, offering expert guidance and helping businesses not just survive, but thrive. Many members of the Sterling Network already know both James and the leadership team at Sysum Howard Duggan, and trust them all to provide straightforward, jargon-free advice. This new chapter marks a significant opportunity for both new and existing clients to capitalise on the firm’s strength and expertise.
James is particularly excited to get back to the hands-on, client-focused approach that Sysum Howard Duggan offers. “I’ve always been passionate about building genuine relationships with clients and being able to make things happen quickly and efficiently for them,” he explains. “I’m looking forward to getting back to working closely with business owners, understanding their goals, and providing practical advice that really makes a difference – helping them grow, protect their business, and achieve their ambitions.”
Friendly, open conversations lie at the heart of the firm’s service, and any business considering a switch or needing expert support with their accounts can reach Sysum Howard Duggan on 01905 622202 or by visiting www.shdco.co.uk
