At MHA, our national Education and Not-for-Profit team has over 20 years of experience working with universities and higher education institutions. We understand the regulatory, financial and strategic challenges facing the sector today.
As the UK independent member of Baker Tilly International, one of the world’s top ten global networks, we combine specialist sector knowledge with international reach and resource and the highest standards of quality services.
Sector-Led Expertise and Practical Insight
When it comes to higher education we are all in, providing both external and internal perspectives Our team brings significant hands-on experience from serving on university boards, chairing audit committees and working within university finance departments. This background gives us a clear understanding of the operational and governance challenges universities face.
We work collaboratively and constructively with our clients and also offer free support through our MHA Charity Trustee Hub, which provides guidance to university leaders and governors.
We also contribute to the sector through our support of sector organisations such as British Universities Finance Directors’ Group through conference presentations and guidance, and by contributing to sector consultations such as on the Further and Higher Education SORP.
Breadth of Services
We offer a comprehensive range of assurance and advisory services tailored to the needs of higher education institutions. These include:
External and internal audit, grant reporting
- Corporation tax and charity tax
- Employment tax
- Research and Development
- Transfer pricing
- Global tax solutions
- VAT, Customs and Excise Duties
F&HE SORP compliance
Each area is led by experienced partners and supported by specialist teams who understand the specific context of the sector.
Understanding of Charitable Status and Commercial Strategies
We are trusteed professionals working across a broad spectrum of not-for-profit organisations and are a top ten provider in every major area with over 1,000 clients, including schools, colleges, training providers and charities. This allows us to bring valuable cross-sector knowledge to our higher education clients, particularly in areas such as fundraising, endowment management, VAT status, tax efficiency and commercial trading. We also work with major commercial organisations globally, giving us strong insight into the business and commercial imperatives that many universities must balance alongside their charitable objectives.
National Commitment with International Capability
We act for a wide range of higher education institutions across the UK from small specialist institutions to leading institutions in the QS World University rankings, and bring a deep understanding of the sector to every engagement. Our international team acts for several hundred higher education clients. Whether supporting strategic transformation, offering audit assurance or advising on international expansion, we provide consistent and informed support through a combination of national focus and global resource.
We have a strong firmwide commitment to statutory audit services, and act for many large and complex national and international organisations such as listed companies and public interest entities whose audits are regulated by the Financial Reporting Council.
Higher Education Insight and Events
Why MHA?
- We have a strong and respected heritage across the higher education sectors.
- Our expert knowledge has helped to shape official guidance and legislation for education providers.
- We look at things differently to help our clients unlock their potential.
- We’re focused on helping our clients to achieve long-term growth and creating a sustainable future together.
- We build enduring relationships with our people, clients and communities.
- We are ambitious for our clients; we are not afraid to speak up when we see a better solution.
