Mark Sykes named head of consulting at BDO

BDO has installed a new head of consulting, with immediate effect. Mark Sykes takes on the role on a permanent basis, having worked in an interim capacity since the summer.

Commenting on his appointment, Sykes noted, “This is a really exciting time to be taking on this role. As a relatively new consulting team, we don’t carry the baggage of some of our more established competitors. We’re able to take a fresh approach and bring in high quality consultants focused on delivering the expertise that our clients really need - in digital, cyber, AI, ESG, procurement, business process optimisation, risk consulting and people advisory.”

Sykes has served as interim head of consulting since July, but steps into the role on a permanent basis, as BDO looks to expand its offering to clients in the mid-market. He brings experience to the role from working in industry, and leading on large public sector IT outsourcing and transformation projects, including business modelling, benchmarking and commercial negotiations.

He added, “We see a real opportunity to help our mid-market clients to improve their performance in these areas and I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in.”

Prior to the appointment, Sykes was previously an audit partner advising listed and growth businesses, particularly in the manufacturing, technology and retail sectors. He first arrived at BDO in 2013, and in that time has also held the role of head of entrepreneurial business, supporting businesses to overcome barriers to growth and move through to PE ownership or IPO.

In the new role, he will report to Leigh Treacy – head of BDO’s wider consulting, risk and outsourcing practice. Treacy took on that role in 2024, amid a broader leadership reshuffle at BDO, under new Managing Partner Mark Shaw.

Speaking on the news, Treacy added, “Mark [Sykes] has always been passionate about helping clients to scale up at pace, embrace technology and build sustainably. As such, he is perfectly placed to help steer our consulting business where we see huge potential for growth.”