Monahans, part of the Sumer Group, looks to culture, innovation and growth to deliver a triple award-winning night

South West accountancy firm Monahans is celebrating after being shortlisted in three categories at the South West Business of the Year Awards 2025.

Following a hugely successful inaugural year, these awards, led by TheBusinessDesk.com, shine a spotlight on the most dynamic and innovative businesses across the region.

Monahans has been recognised as a finalist for Medium Business of the Year, praised for its resilience, people-first culture and strong strategic vision, and for Employer of the Year, reflecting its commitment to collaboration, wellbeing and development.

Operations Partner Sophie Austin has also been shortlisted for Business Leader of the Year.

Her nomination recognises her role in supporting Monahans growth journey, helping guide them through multiple acquisitions across the South West over the last 12 months, as well as helping the firm shape its people strategy, creating a strong culture and employee proposition leading ESG and ensured employees, suppliers and communities remain central to the firm’s decisions.

“Guiding the business through acquisitions over the last 12 months has been both exciting and demanding, but seeing those transitions strengthen both our services and our people has been hugely rewarding.

“Making the shortlist in each of these categories reflects the collective effort of the team. While I’m delighted to be recognised individually, credit really belongs to the whole Monahans team,” said Sophie.

Monahans has increased its headcount this year by 60 per cent and is proud that staff satisfaction results show its people feel both supported and respected.

“We’ve welcomed some truly great people into Monahans this year, from trainees to partners, and it’s been fantastic to see them settle in so quickly.”

“Being recognised as Employer of the Year alongside Medium Business of the Year feels like a real acknowledgement of the culture we’ve worked hard to build where our people, clients and communities can thrive.”

This recognition follows a year of significant progress for Monahans. The firm has seen strong financial growth and expanded its national reach since joining the Sumer Group in 2024. Monahans announced its decision to join Sumer in a move that sees it become part of one of the top 15 mid-market accountancy firms in the UK employing over 2,500 people in more than 50 offices around the country.

It has invested in new service lines to meet client demand, introduced structured onboarding and coaching to support staff at every stage of their career and strengthened its ESG commitments through partnerships and staff-led sustainability initiatives.

Monahans has also continued to deepen its community engagement with local events, fundraising and volunteering, as part of its ambition to create long-term connections across the South West.

“We love to get involved with community events and support local causes. It is something our people care about, and it helps us feel even more connected to the region we are so proud to be part of.”

All award winners will be announced at a black-tie awards evening on 13 November at the Bristol Harbour Hotel.

Monahans extends its congratulations to all fellow finalists and looks forward to celebrating with them on the night.

To find out more about Monahans, please visit: https://www.monahans.co.uk.