Partners
Craig Manser BSc (Hons) FCA
Partner
I joined Humphrey & Co in 2004 after completing a degree in Physics and Mathematics at Keele University. I qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 2008.
I act for a wide range of clients, including sole traders, partnerships and limited companies, providing practical advice on accounting, taxation and business matters.
I have a particular interest in the legal sector and have developed specialist expertise in advising barristers on their tax affairs. I work closely with clients to ensure they receive clear, proactive advice tailored to their individual circumstances.
- What do you like most about your job? Interacting with clients and staff
- What's your best quality? A keen eye for detail
- Secret skill? Golf - current handicap 5 at Eastbourne Downs Golf Club
- Favourite film? Back to the Future
- If you could be an animal what would you be? Panda
Emily Smith BSc (Hons) FCA
Partner
I have been with Humphrey & Co since joining in 2009 after graduating from Lancaster University and undertook my training with the firm, qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in 2012.
Over the years I have provided a range of business and taxation advice for both individual and corporate clients. Whilst based out of our Eastbourne office I am always happy to travel to see clients across the UK.
More recently, as well as continuing to provide general practice services, I specialise in undertaking audits across a wide variety of industries, heading up our audit team, and providing services to not-for-profit clients.
Outside of work you will typically find me running around after my two children entertaining their current interests, trying to squeeze in a gym session, and looking for inspiration for new recipes to try in the kitchen.
- What's your best quality? Honesty
- Last meal on earth? Curry
- Favourite film? Rock of Ages
- What essential item would you take to a desert island? Sun Cream
- Perfect day? Walking the dogs on the downs
Managers
Joe Jaeger MMath (Hons) ACA
Audit Manager
I qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 2016, having joined Humphrey and Co in 2013 after completing a Masters Degree in Mathematics from the University of Bath. I work closely with partners Emily Smith and Craig Manser providing audit and accounting services for corporate and charity clients.
- What do you like most about your job? It's a nice place to work and the people
- What's your best quality? Sunny disposition, originality
- Secret skill? Rapping
- Favourite film? Wallace & Grommit series
- Perfect day? Watching football, going to a gig
Ian Pinder FMAAT
Senior Audit Manager
I started my working career in forestry before joining Midland Bank. I have also worked in the printing industry, foreign exchange and for The Association of Authorised Public Accountants, a governing body for accountants.I joined Humphrey & Co in 1997 and became AAT qualified in 2002 and a fellow member in 2008. I am directly involved in the majority of audits within the firm and undertake Solicitors Accounts Rules compliance work. In my spare time, I am treasurer of a local cricket club and vice-chairman of a local motor sport club.
- What do you like most about your job? Helping our clients
- Secret skill? A rally navigator
- Gadget you couldn't live without? A kettle
- Favourite film? Oliver (original)
- If you could be an animal what would you be? A bird of prey
Our People
Joel Brierley MAAT ACA
Chartered Accountant
I started working at Humphrey & Co in August 2020 having just finished my AAT Level 3. I completed my Accounting Technician (AAT) qualification in 2022 and qualified as a Chartered Accountant (ACA) in June 2025. I work in the audit team for partner Emily Smith, where I am primarily involved in audit work for a wide variety of clients. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family as well as hikes in the countryside.
- What do you like most about your job? The satisfaction of finishing a large set of accounts.
- What’s your best quality? I’m committed to my work
- Gadget you couldn’t live without? Custom PC
Ella Pickles MAAT ACA
Chartered Accountant
I joined Humphrey & Co in December 2021, after spending two years at another local accountancy firm. I became a qualified Accounting Technician in May 2022 and I then went on to study ACA, qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in June 2025. I am part of the Audit team in Eastbourne, working for Partner Emily Smith. Outside of the office I go to the gym regularly, attend a running club and more recently I have taken up horse riding which I am enjoying.
- What do you like most about your job? Working with numbers and my colleagues
- What’s your best quality? Calm under pressure
- Secret skill? Singing