Deloitte said it has appointed Manchester-based Sharon Thorne as the designated incoming chair of the Deloitte global board of directors.
Effective June 2019, Thorne will become the first woman to serve in this role.
Thorne, currently deputy CEO and managing partner, global & strategy, of Deloitte North West Europe, will succeed David Cruickshank, who has completed his four year-term.
Thorne is an audit partner with more than 30 years of experience.
She has spent more than 20 years based in Deloitte UK’s Manchester office and in her current role has been responsible for the global dimension of Deloitte North West Europe’s strategy.
Thorne has significant governance experience including nine years spent on the Deloitte Global Board, six years on the Deloitte UK Board, four years as chair of Deloitte CIS Holdings Ltd, and six years on the board of the Confederation of British Industry.
“As Global Chair, my focus will be on evolving our governance model in support of our global strategic ambitions, and positioning the board to stay ahead of the complex challenges presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” said Thorne.
“I will also focus on continuing to strengthen Deloitte’s commitment to inclusion and putting our purpose at the heart of all we do.”
Cruickshank said: “Sharon and I have served together on the Global Board and I’ve had the chance to see first-hand the unique skills and leadership capabilities she will bring to this role, including her substantive governance experience and proven track record in the UK and globally.
“As the first woman to lead the Global Board, she will achieve an important milestone in Deloitte’s history, especially fitting as we celebrate International Women’s Day this week.”
Deloitte Global CEO Punit Renjen said: “Sharon’s leadership has made Deloitte stronger globally.
“Her vision for the Global Board is built around her aspiration to make a positive impact in the world and backed up by a career full of action, especially as an unflinching advocate for a more diverse and inclusive workplace.
“I look forward to working with Sharon in her new role to further our collective purpose-driven vision for Deloitte.”