Azets, the international accountancy and business advisory group, today announces that Peter Gallanagh has decided to step down from his role as UK&I Chief Executive Officer at the end of the year, with David Aikman appointed to succeed him as UK&I Managing Director.
The announcement follows a planned succession process, with Peter remaining in his current role until 31 December 2026 to support a smooth transition. He will subsequently move into an advisory role, ensuring Azets continues to benefit from his considerable experience and knowledge of the business.
Peter has played a significant role in the growth and development of Azets, leading the UK business through a period of expansion, integration and transformation. His leadership has been instrumental in strengthening the business, bringing teams and capabilities together, and establishing a strong foundation for its continued success.
David, currently UK&I Chief Financial Officer, brings extensive knowledge of the business and its operations to his new role. His appointment provides continuity of leadership and positions Azets to build on its established strengths and pursue its long-term ambitions across the UK and Ireland.
Chris Horne, Group Chief Executive Officer of Azets, said:
"Peter has made an exceptional contribution to Azets and the development of our UK business. He has led with determination and commitment through a period of significant growth and change, helping to shape the business we are today.
"We fully respect Peter's decision to step down and are delighted that he will remain involved in an advisory capacity. His experience and expertise will continue to be invaluable to us.
"David is exceptionally well placed to take the business forward. He has a deep understanding of Azets, our people and our clients, and his appointment provides important continuity as we look to the next stage of our growth."
Peter Gallanagh, UK&I Chief Executive Officer of Azets, said:
"It has been an honour and a privilege to lead the UK&I business and to work alongside so many talented and committed colleagues. I'm immensely proud of what we've achieved together and the strong business we've built.
"Having been closely involved in planning the next chapter, I believe this is the right time for me to step back from the day-to-day leadership of the business. I'm delighted that David will be taking on the role and have every confidence in his ability to lead Azets forward.
"I look forward to supporting a smooth transition over the coming weeks and continuing to contribute to Azets in an advisory capacity."
David Aikman, incoming UK&I Managing Director of Azets, said:
"I am delighted to be taking on this role and look forward to building on the strong foundations Peter has established. Having worked closely with Peter over the past few years, I have seen first-hand the impact of his leadership and the strength of the business he has helped build.
“We have a fantastic team, great clients and significant opportunities ahead. My focus will be on turning those opportunities into sustainable growth, delivering consistently for our clients and supporting our people to succeed.
“I am excited about what we can achieve together and to lead Azets UK&I through its next chapter.
-ENDS-
About Azets
Azets is an international business advisory group, with 9,000 local experts in 190 locations across eight countries, backed by progressive technology. We are united by one clear purpose: to improve the lives of our clients, colleagues and communities in a sustainable way.
100,000+ clients on unique journeys trust us to meet their immediate and evolving needs, remove barriers, and deliver sustained outcomes so they can move forward with confidence.
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