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Press release

Grant Thornton strengthens sustainability expertise in Brisbane with new Partner, Elna How

Grant Thornton has welcomed Elna How as a Partner in its national Sustainability Reporting Advisory team effective from 9 February 2026.

Based in the Brisbane office, Elna brings over 20 years’ experience across financial audit and specialist accounting roles in both Australia and South Africa. 

Elna began her career with Grant Thornton South Africa and has since held senior roles across Big 4 and mid-tier professional services firms, as well as in industry. She brings a deep understanding of how sustainability reporting intersects with established financial reporting disciplines and works closely with organisations to interpret and apply Australia’s sustainability reporting requirements alongside International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). 

Elna has extensive experience across a broad range of industries, supporting organisations at different stages of their sustainability reporting journey. Her work spans large, listed entities with global operations and complex, multi jurisdictional reporting obligations, through to smaller Australian entities. This breadth of experience positions her strongly to support organisations as they design, implement and embed sustainability reporting frameworks.

“I’m delighted to be welcomed into the Grant Thornton Australia Partnership. Reflecting on my early career as a trainee accountant with Grant Thornton South Africa, this moment feels truly full circle. I look forward to continuing my work supporting clients as they respond to the evolving sustainability reporting landscape in Australia and abroad.”

Andrew Rigele – Head of ESG & Sustainability Services at Grant Thornton Australia, said Elna’s appointment, following the recent appointment of another Brisbane-based partner, David Pitts, further strengthens the firm’s national sustainability capability.

“We are delighted to welcome someone of Elna’s calibre to our national sustainability practice. With her blend of professional services and industry experience, she brings deep technical capability and a strong understanding of how sustainability reporting integrates with financial reporting. Her leadership and experience will be instrumental as we continue to support clients through Australia’s evolving sustainability reporting landscape.”

Elna is known for her empathetic, people centred leadership style. She brings highly effective communication skills and a practical and collaborative approach to working with clients.

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