Johnston Carmichael, Scotland's largest independent accountancy and advisory firm, has announced eight key appointments to expand and strengthen the senior team as part of its growth and succession planning strategy.

Hugh Boyle, who leads the firm's hospitality and tourism team in Glasgow, becomes one of four new partners along with Neil Steven in Edinburgh, Graham Leith in Inverurie, and Peter Innes who heads up the Stirling office, to take the partner total to 56.

Edinburgh-based Gillian Hadden, James Thompson, Michael Murray and Stewart Pennington are all promoted to director.

Sandy Manson, chief executive, said: "At Johnston Carmichael we place great emphasis on the career development of our people, and therefore creating many opportunities for them to grow and prosper in all parts of our business is high on our agenda. I am delighted to announce this round of senior appointments, which reflect the strength of the team of emerging leaders that we have right across the firm."