Deloitte UK has elected the firm’s board of partners member and vice chairman Nick Owen to the post of chairman, effective 1 June.
He will replace outgoing chairman David Cruickshank, who has held the post since 2007.
Nominated by the firm’s board and elected by the firm’s partners, the chairman can serve for a maximum of two four-year terms.
Previously managing partner for business consulting at Andersen Consulting, Owen joined Deloitte in 2002.
Initially a partner within Deloitte’s audit line, he has since gone on to lead the firm’s private sector consulting team.
As a member of the firm’s board of partners, Owen has been part of a team responsible for the promotion and protection of partner interests, as well as oversight of management.
The board also holds specific oversight of risk, as well as approving long-term strategy decisions within the firm.
Owen’s nomination follows the re-election of David Sproul to Deloitte UK chief executive officer and the appointment of Ruth Markland as independent non-executive director, effective 1 June.
Commenting on his appointment, Owen said he was excited to take on the role at an "exciting time" for the firm and its clients.
"The certainty provided by this month’s Election outcome should provide a boost to economic confidence and a platform for businesses to invest and pursue growth," he added.
Owen further said he believes Deloitte has a positive impact in terms of growth and confidence among clients, support for social enterprise and the firm’s own investment in recruitment, education and training.
He explained: "In my role as chairman, I want to encourage a better understanding of the contribution our firm makes to society and the wider business community."
