KPMG installs Catherine Burnet as UK audit chief

After the promotion of Jon Holt to the highest office in KPMG’s UK wing, the outgoing Head of Audit has been replaced by Catherine Burnet.

The new Audit chief brings more than 25 years of experience with the Big Four firm to the role, gained across the firm's offices in Edinburgh, London and Chicago.

She most recently was the Regional Chair for Scotland, held the position of Edinburgh Office Senior Partner and was the Lead Partner on a number of large accounts, with a focus on the financial services industry.

Commenting on Burnet’s appointment, the former division head and CEO Jon Holt said, “The audit profession is undergoing significant change through operational separation with further transformation on the horizon with the proposals outlined in the Government’s white paper. I know Catherine will bring her leadership, energy and focus to lead our audit practice through these changes.” 

Reflecting on the news, Burnet added, “We have much to do given the amount of change in the industry but I’m confident that by working with the great people in our business, we will continue to lead the transformation and rebuild trust in the profession.”

KPMG’s Audit division houses 6,000 auditors serving companies from large listed corporates to family owned businesses, across the full spectrum of sectors.

Burnet’s appointment sees her work closely together with Michelle Hinchliffe, who led the division between 2017 and 2019 – with Hinchcliffe having taken on the role of Chair of Audit two years ago.

The news comes shortly after KPMG was named one of UK's top consulting firms for women and gender diversity.