Core Insights - HLB has expanded its international network by adding HLB Ethiopia, enhancing its presence in East Africa and supporting organizations in Ethiopia [1][2] - HLB Ethiopia offers a range of services including audit, assurance, tax, and advisory, catering to various sectors [1] - The addition aligns with HLB's strategy to strengthen cooperation with firms in emerging markets and expand its global service reach [2] Company Strategy - HLB Ethiopia's managing partner emphasized the importance of local transformation alongside global reach, focusing on delivering impactful services in Ethiopia's evolving economy [2] - HLB International's chief growth officer highlighted Ethiopia's economic momentum, characterized by a large young workforce and its strategic position as a gateway to regional and global markets [3] - Establishing a local presence through HLB Ethiopia enables HLB to provide essential support for businesses to navigate risks and achieve sustainable growth [3] Network Overview - HLB International operates in 155 countries with a workforce of 51,948 professionals, indicating a robust global presence [3] - The network's name signifies its international scope and the distinct legal entities of its member firms [4]

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]