Grant Thornton UK has added over 100 new partners and directors this year, aligning with a strategy to invest in its workforce. 

In the fourth quarter of 2025, the firm named 20 new partners and directors.  

Of these, more than 85% were internal promotions, while the appointment of Chris Stefani as chief financial officer (CFO) was among the external hires. 

The recruitment activity follows Grant Thornton UK’s stated plan to bring in 160 new Partners over the next two years. This plan was outlined after the firm completed a transaction with private equity firm Cinven earlier this year. 

Since the Cinven transaction, Grant Thornton UK has expanded its investments in staff development and technology upgrades, including training in data skills and digital tools.  

The company has also put reward schemes in place such as an employee benefit trust and a special bonus. 

The firm also launched a partner model that is aimed at transforming its reward strategy. This new approach integrates annual incentives with long-term growth rewards, resulting in a package that delivers a 50% premium above market benchmarks. 

Grant Thornton UK stated that this model is backed by tailored onboarding and development programmes to promote leadership excellence.  

Earlier this year, the firm bolstered its governance structure with the appointment of Stuart Quickenden as chair of the board, bringing a different perspective to board oversight and guidance. 

Grant Thornton UK CEO Malcolm Gomersall said: “Expanding our senior team with these exceptional appointments is a clear signal of our ambition and confidence in the future. Our focus on promoting talent from within whilst also attracting outstanding leaders to join our firm reflects the strength of our culture, and the appeal of our unique partnership model.  

“These appointments will play a pivotal role in delivering on our growth strategy and ensuring we continue to lead the market with quality, innovation and client impact.”