EY appoints Alison Duncan as UK chair

EY has unveiled Alison Duncan as its next UK chair, subject to a partner vote.

Duncan will assume the role from 1 April, taking over from Hywel Ball who retires from the firm at the end of the financial year.

In line with the FRC Audit Firm Governance Code the roles of EY UK chair and managing partner have been separated, with Anna Anthony appointed MP in January.

It means two women now hold the top two jobs in the firm.

The UK chair was selected by a specially constituted nomination committee, which will also select members of the UK LLP board for recommendation to partners,

As UK chair Duncan will be responsible for ensuring independent oversight.

She has worked for EY for 30 years, over 20 of those as a partner.

Duncan said: “Having been a member of the UK LLP Board for over three years, I understand the importance of having a strong UK Chair who can provide oversight and governance of the firm. It is truly an honour and a privilege to have been selected for this role, and I am looking forward to working with Anna Anthony, the Board, and our wider Partner group as we continue to grow the business, serve our clients and create exceptional careers for EY people.”