HLB, the global network of independent advisory and accounting firms, has added HLB Ethiopia, a professional services provider in Addis Ababa, into its international community. The addition is aimed at strengthening HLB’s footprint within East Africa and provides additional support for organisations in Ethiopia. HLB Ethiopia delivers audit and assurance, tax, and advisory services to clients operating in diverse sectors. HLB Ethiopia managing partner Desalegn Zewdie commented: “At HLB Ethiopia, joining ...

Core Insights - Steve Tennant has been appointed as CEO for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) at Grant Thornton Advisors, aiming to enhance service delivery and growth across the region [1][3] - The multinational platform of Grant Thornton Advisors has rapidly expanded across the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East, necessitating a new operating structure [2][4] - Tennant's leadership will focus on deepening cross-border capabilities and delivering multi-jurisdictional support to clients [3][5] Company Developments - The Grant Thornton Advisors multinational platform was established in January 2025 and has since expanded through transactions with various professional services firms in France, Spain, and Belgium [4][15] - The platform aims to provide seamless cross-border advisory and tax services, supported by independent audit practices and significant investments in technology and talent [5][8] - Grant Thornton Advisors is backed by an investor group led by New Mountain Capital, which manages approximately $55 billion in assets [6] Leadership and Strategy - Tennant's appointment reflects his proven leadership in innovation and client-centric growth, having previously served as managing partner of Grant Thornton Ireland since January 2024 [3][5] - The new operating structure will allow for a unified multinational platform that enhances collaboration and innovative capabilities across regions [5][8] - The platform is designed to deliver a singular client experience, leveraging a workforce of over 15,000 professionals [8]

Company Overview - Deloitte LLP is planning to cut jobs in its UK business due to a sector-wide slowdown in consulting services [1] - The company is reviewing its internal services teams, with potential job eliminations in marketing and business development roles [1] Financial Performance - Deloitte's revenue for its tech consulting business decreased by 10% to £1.67 billion in 2025, attributed to clients reducing spending [6] - Overall revenue fell by 1% to £5.68 billion, down from £5.75 billion the previous year [6] - The audit and assurance business grew by 3% to £969 million, while the tax and legal unit increased by 7% to £1.34 billion [6] - The strategy, risk, and transactions business also saw a 3% increase to £901 million [6] Compensation and Employment Changes - Deloitte partners in the UK and Switzerland received an average pay raise of 4% for the financial year ending May 31, with pay rising to approximately £1.05 million from £1.01 million [2] - In contrast, rival PricewaterhouseCoopers maintained its UK partners' pay at an average of £865,000 [2] Industry Context - The consulting industry is facing a decline in demand for traditional services, exacerbated by a decrease in mergers and acquisitions and government spending cuts in the US [3] - Other firms in the industry, such as Accenture Plc and McKinsey & Co., have also reduced headcounts in response to the challenging market conditions [3] Strategic Response - Deloitte may eliminate some roles but is also considering creating new positions and relocating at-risk staff where feasible [4] - The firm underwent a major reorganization in 2024, reducing its business units from five to four [4] - Deloitte's UK senior partner noted that geopolitical and economic challenges have led clients to delay investments [4][5] - The company aims to continue transforming its operations through technology adoption and enhanced collaboration with other Deloitte member firms [5]