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Hannah’s Story | My Journey From Graduate to Audit Manager

· Posted on: March 6th 2026 · read

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Hi, I’m Hannah and I’m an Audit Manager at MHA. I started my career here straight from university and, like many people early on, I did not yet have a clear idea of what my long-term path might look like. What shaped my journey was the support, encouragement and belief of the people around me. Their guidance helped me step into opportunities I might never have considered on my own and gave me the confidence to grow into the role I am in today.

Realising My Potential

""My journey at MHA began in 2017 when I joined the Birmingham office as an audit graduate straight from university. I worked through my ACA qualification and completed it in 2020. Up until then, my main focus had been my exams, and I had not yet formed a clear picture of the direction I wanted my career to take.

I was fortunate to have people around me who helped me think about that next step. Alex Green and Steven Higgs, who were both assistant managers at the time, saw something in me and suggested I consider the management route, especially with the opportunities for progression in our office. I had not mapped that out for myself, so their support and belief made a real difference.""

Hannah, Audit Manager

Finding Confidence Through Opportunity

I was given opportunities that pushed me to grow, particularly by Martin Ramsey, Partner, who believed in me and booked me onto his largest and most complex jobs. This meant becoming the main client contact, leading teams and working through areas of audit that were challenging, unfamiliar or more technical.

There were moments that felt daunting. There are always unexpected client changes, tight deadlines and technical issues you have not seen before, but those experiences are where you learn the most. One of the most important things I have realised is that everyone is learning, no matter how senior they are. It is easy to assume other people understand something better, when, in reality, most people are figuring things out as they go.

Stepping into unfamiliar areas can feel uncomfortable, but it often makes the work more interesting and gives you the chance to stand out. It is about being willing to try, trusting your ability, and knowing when it is the right moment to ask for support.

Hannah Pittaway Audit Manager

Support and Belonging

The Birmingham office has been a significant part of my development. Teamwork here is strong and even during challenging periods there are always people willing to help. I have built genuine friendships which make a real difference day to day.

It has also been inspiring to see more women moving into senior positions and those opportunities becoming increasingly visible across the firm. Being part of an environment where that progress is happening has been motivating.

Advice I Would Give Anyone Starting Out

Think beyond your exams and begin to focus on what you want your role to become. Take opportunities that stretch you, challenge yourself and work hard.

As you progress, remember to create opportunities for others too. Give people exposure, challenge them, share your knowledge, reward hard work and avoid gatekeeping. We all grow when we actively support one another and help create opportunities for the people coming through behind us.