AAB appoints Karen Musgrave as audit partner

UK-based professional services group AAB has hired Karen Musgrave as an audit partner as the firm broadens its operations across the North West.

In her new role, Musgrave is tasked with reinforcing AAB’s existing audit services, advising current clients, and growing the practice by expanding the clientele.

Musgrave joins AAB from RSM, where she joined as a trainee in 1996.

She was promoted to partner position in 2018 before taking charge of firm’s Preston location as office managing partner in 2022.

Over a 30-year career overseeing audit assignments, Musgrave has worked across organisations of varied sizes, ranging from small and medium-sized enterprises to large corporations.

Her sector background includes advising owner-managed operations and private equity-backed entities in the North West, alongside non-profit organisations, with a focus on charities and the regional education sector.

Musgrave said: “Having built my career in the North West, stepping into this new role at AAB will allow me to continue supporting businesses both here in the North West, as well as further afield.

“I’ve worked with businesses of all shapes and sizes, and it’s the opportunity to work with the people behind these businesses that I really enjoy.

“As a rapidly growing firm, it’s particularly exciting to be joining AAB as it looks to significantly expand its presence.”

Musgrave’s appointment aligns with AAB’s wider scale-up across the region.

It launched a new office in Manchester in July 2026. The firm, which also has an existing office in Bolton, plans to build its regional workforce to more than 200 staff over the coming years.

AAB North West head Chris Harland said: “Karen’s expertise and reputation across the North West market is a great addition to the AAB team, ensuring we’re continually expanding our sector expertise and providing clients with the support they need throughout their business journey.

“This is all part of our strategy to grow our presence in the North West.”

Recently, AAB acquired Veritas Advisory, a UK-based capital allowances advisory company.