Charge of the young brigade as PwC appoints new office head

Mr Ahmad replaces Roger Marsh, who retires this summer after 37 years with the firm and is taking up the role of chairman at the Leeds City Region Local Enterprise Partnership.

Mr Ahmad said: “I’m humbled and excited to be given this opportunity. Despite the economic headwinds, our firm has grown each year through the downturn and, as market leaders, we are very proud of our client base and the quality of our people.

“But we’re always hungry for more and I am keen that we build on the platform laid by Roger and continue to broaden and deepen our relationships and grow our practice. Yorkshire is a great marketplace and I’m constantly enthused by the fantastic businesses and people I have the privilege to meet. I’m looking forward to meeting many more.”

PwC has around 600 staff in Leeds. The appointment follows moves by Deloitte and KPMG in appointing younger partners to lead regional offices.

Martin Jenkins, who made his name as a corporate finance partner with Deloitte, took over the top job in Yorkshire and the North East at the age of 42 in 2010.

KPMG promoted Chris Hearld to head its Yorkshire operation last year at the age of 41.

Mr Ahmad joined PwC’s audit team in Leeds as an economics graduate in 1996. He has worked in corporate finance and transaction services.

He has also worked in London and the United States, in Chicago and Cleveland.

The retired cricketer currently leads PwC’s private business and Aim practices.