Azets appoints Ashford managing partner

Accountancy and business advisory firm Azets has appointed Katie Hodson as managing partner at its Ashford office in Kent, marking a milestone 20 years after she began her career with the firm.

Katie joined Azets in Ashford as an audit and accounts trainee in 2005 and qualified with ACCA in 2009. 

She was promoted to director of client services in 2020 before becoming a partner in 2023. 

Katie advises a broad portfolio of SMEs, owner-managed businesses and partnerships, with particular expertise in construction, property and viticulture.

In her new role, Katie will be responsible for the day-to-day leadership of the 40-strong Ashford team, alongside driving business development and maintaining high standards of client service.

She succeeds Rick Schofield, who moves into the role of head of risk and quality for the UK tax team, alongside his client responsibilities.

Katie said: “I’m delighted to be taking over from Rick and to be building on the strong foundations he created within our close-knit team in Ashford. 

“Kent is a fantastic place to do business. 

“That’s evident from the fact the county is home to everything from farms and vineyards to manufacturers and digital innovators, and everything in between. 

“Firms in the region are forward-thinking and incredibly ambitious and I’m really looking forward to playing a bigger role supporting them, our team, and the wider business community in the months and years ahead.”

Nick Parrett, southern regional managing director at Azets, added: “Katie’s an excellent technician, committed to first-rate client service and looking after and developing our team, and is well-known and well-respected across the local and regional business community. 

“All of the team in Ashford and across the Azets southern region are looking forward to working with her in her new role – and wish her well as she takes the reins from Rick.”

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