Big Four firm EY has appointed Anna Anthony as its next UK and Ireland regional managing partner, replacing Hywel Ball, effective from 1 January 2025. In this role, Anna will oversee a substantial workforce of more than 20,000 employees, driving EY’s operations across the region.
Having been with EY for over 16 years, Anna has built an impressive career within the company. Since 2021, she has served as the Managing Partner for UK Financial Services and has been a key member of the EY UK LLP Board. Her current role has seen her responsible for managing over £1 billion in revenues, leading 250 partners and a team of 5,000 professionals dedicated to serving clients in the financial services sector, including many of EY’s largest global accounts.
With a 25-year background in the financial services industry, Anna has held various senior leadership roles at EY. Her expertise includes serving as a country and regional tax leader, as well as a client service partner, all of which have prepared her for this new challenge.
In accordance with the UK’s Financial Reporting Council (FRC) Audit Firm Governance Code, EY will be separating the roles of Regional Managing Partner and Chair moving forward. Current UK Chair Hywel Ball will maintain his position until a new chair is appointed through a selection process set to take place early next year.
Commenting on her promotion, Anna said: “I am incredibly proud to be taking on this role and to have the opportunity to lead the firm that I joined more than 20 years ago.”
“My mission is to build on the strong foundations we have in place, to adapt and evolve to the changing needs of our clients, whilst staying true to the culture and values that lie at the heart of EY,” she added.