He brings over 30 years’ of expertise in governance, compliance and strategic development to HB&O and is a former partner at RSM UK, where he was Head of Governance and part of the ESG advisory practice.

Karl has led governance evaluations across a wide range of sectors, from healthcare and housing associations, to building societies and private sector companies.

The new partnership will grow the board governance service that HB&O can offer to its clients – with a particular focus on organisations operating in the social housing and healthcare sector.

It signals a move to expand the firm’s expertise and footprint in this area, with Karl’s expert governance insight and strategic advice supporting clients in navigating the complex governance landscape.

HB&O’s partnership with Karl comes during a period of growth for the firm, supported by the opening of its new office in Birmingham city centre earlier this year.

The firm now has three offices across the West Midlands, including Birmingham, Coventry and Leamington Spa.

Stuart Grosvenor, Director at HB&O, said: “By engaging a consultant with Karl’s knowledge and expertise, we are now better placed than ever before to support businesses with advice on strategic governance.

“Karl is well-respected in the industry and has experience across a wide range of sectors. His knowledge around complex and highly regulated environments will add value for clients and be important as we establish the firm in this specialist area.”

Karl added: “I’m delighted to be partnering on this initiative with an innovative practice that is embracing technology and strengthening governance resources to better support their clients on this journey.

“It’s great to be working with a forward-thinking, mid-tier practice that is ambitious and growing across the Midlands.”