asb law has welcomed Andrew Hoad, pictured, to its corporate finance team.

Previously a partner at Vertex Law at Kings Hill, West Malling, and at Rawlison Butler in Crawley, he will play a key role in business development and supporting asb's clients.

Mr Hoad has more than 15 years' experience in corporate finance, having qualified with a City firm. In addition to mergers and acquisitions, he has particular expertise in managing transactions involving both public and private equity investments.

He said: "asb is very well regarded within the corporate finance community."

The firm has achieved the one to watch status in the latest Sunday Times Best Companies to Work For survey.

The accreditation scheme focuses on workplace engagement as an integral component of an organisation's success.

Hundreds of companies apply each year in an exercise that takes into account staff comments.

"Over 80% of our staff took the time to complete and return the survey, considerably more than the average, and the detailed analysis will enable us to determine how and where we can improve work practices and employee care," said Philippa Barnes, head of HR and development.

"We recognise that improvement doesn't come overnight and requires effort, but we will be reviewing our engagement plans to reflect the feedback of our people, and hope to achieve a one-star rating next year."