MHA appoints Dean Alexander Hughes as head of business consulting

Dean Hughes has been named the new head of business consulting at MHA. This a new service line and role for the firm, as it looks to expand after its successful IPO.

MHA CEO Rakesh Shaunak commented, “I am delighted to welcome Dean to MHA and look forward to working with him as we embark on the launch of our business consulting service line, supporting clients in achieving operational excellence and resilience through strategic advisory and transformation delivery.”

MHA – the UK wing of the Baker Tilly International network – has enjoyed strong financial results lately, with its year ending in March 2025 seeing a 45% revenue expansion. Hitting £224.2 million, up from £154 million in the previous financial year, the firm cited organic and acquisitive growth, buoyed by its IPO, as the driving force behind the news.

As it looks to build on that, Hughes will be working alongside new colleagues in the UK and across MHA’s international footprint, helping clients optimise their businesses today and prepare for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. The multidisciplinary consulting practice will cover strategy and innovation; operational excellence; data and technology; culture and engagement; and business risk and resilience.

Hughes is a seasoned risk professional and business leader, bringing over 20 years of expertise across both corporate and professional services spanning executive, advisory, and operational roles across global organisations. Before joining MHA, he was part of the senior leadership team at DLA Piper International, and led the International Risk Group. He was previously also practice head at Barnett Waddingham.

He added, “This feels like a full circle as earlier in my career I was delivering consulting, technology and training services to Rakesh Shaunak and the firm. I am now honoured to be part of the amazing journey of MHA and contribute to the firm’s next chapter in advisory and growth.”