THE former head of EY (formerly Ernst & Young) in the north and one-company-man Mike McKerr has been appointed as Ireland chairman of the leading accountancy and consultancy firm.
He takes up the role in July following a nine-year tenure leading EY’s business across the island of Ireland.
Frank O’Keeffe, currently head of the firm’s assurance business, will succeed Mike as managing partner.
Having joined the firm as a graduate in 1986, Mike has spent his entire career at EY, working as a transaction advisory partner for 16 years before becoming managing partner of the Belfast office in 2001, during which time the business trebled in size.
In 2008, Mike took up the role as head of markets for EY Ireland and in 2009 was appointed as managing partner and a member of the UK and Ireland leadership team.
He has successfully led the business through and out of a recession, building a brand now recognised as a leader for exceptional client service, innovation, diversity and entrepreneurship.
Under his watch, the business has grown from €115m (£100m) in 2010 in to estimated revenues of €290m (£253m) for this financial year.
Mr McKerr said: “I'm extremely grateful for the support of my leadership team, partners and people. I’d like to thank our clients for their unwavering support and encouragement during my tenure.
"While I still enjoy the role, I like to think a good leader knows when to hand over the reins. Taking on the role in 2009, I had a clear vision to generate market-leading growth and service for EY through the pride, belief and confidence of our people.
"I’m very proud that today we are reaching our growth ambitions, and have a leading people culture that embraces diversity and inclusion."
He added: “Frank is an excellent leader and since we launched our Vision 2020 in 2013, our assurance practice has grown 100 per cent over that time. I would like to congratulate Frank on his appointment and wish him a successful and fulfilling career in the years ahead.”
