KPMG UK elects former Manchester boss as new CEO

KPMG in the UK has confirmed that, following a partnership vote, Jon Holt has been elected with overwhelming support as the firm’s chief executive.

He will start in role immediately and will serve until the end of September 2025.

Jon has decades of experience supporting clients with audit, transaction services and advisory projects.

Since joining the firm in 1994, he has led several of KPMG’s largest business units and most recently held the role of head of audit, overseeing 7,000 people.

Prior to this, Jon headed up the firm’s financial services practice. He has also held the role of office senior partner in Manchester, leading one of KPMG’s largest offices.

Bina Mehta, chair of KPMG UK said: “I’m delighted that Jon received the overwhelming backing of the partnership.

“Jon’s extensive experience and inclusive leadership style means he is well placed to deliver the next stage of our growth strategy and support our clients as the country emerges from the pandemic.”

Jon Holt said: “I’m very grateful for the support of the partnership and excited about the future for our firm. We are made up of over 16,000 people doing great work for our clients and in the communities where we live and work.

“KPMG has a great opportunity, as we exit the pandemic, to support our clients and help them build and grow their businesses during this period of profound change. I am confident that KPMG has the people, skills and expertise to grasp this opportunity.”

He added: “Now is the time to challenge ways of working and use what we’ve learnt during the pandemic to really drive positive action.

“This is the moment for leaders to adapt their operations, reduce their environmental footprint and recruit diverse talent right across the UK.

“I am passionate about driving this change. There must be no limit in business to where talent, achievement and hard work can take you, whoever you are and whatever your background.”