Deloitte promotes 32 new leaders across New Zealand divisions
The appointments, made between December and June, are described by Deloitte New Zealand Chief Executive Mike Horne as reflective of the firm's ongoing growth and investment in specialist expertise. Horne commented: "Our new partners each bring a fresh perspective and set of experiences that strengthen our ability to solve our clients' increasingly complex challenges. As organisations face growing pressure to adapt and innovate, having the right people in trusted advisory roles is more important than ever. Deloitte's new partners enhance the depth and breadth of our capabilities across the firm, reinforcing our commitment to helping clients navigate uncertainty and plan for long-term success."
The new partners take up posts across the firm's primary business groups, comprising audit, assurance and reporting advisory; tax and business advisory; technology and transformation; and strategy, risk and transactions.
Audit and assurance
In the audit, assurance and reporting advisory division, Ben Wood, Suné Strydom and Craig Robertson have been promoted to partner. Strydom, based in Auckland, is noted for her technical assurance expertise and work supporting teams through the evolving ESG assurance landscape. Wood, also in Auckland, has managed complex audits and has been a strong proponent of audit quality and innovation since relocating from London in 2018. Robertson began with Deloitte as a graduate in Dunedin and now specialises in financial reporting and complex accounting advisory for a range of clients.
Tax and business advisory
Five individuals have become partners within Deloitte's tax and business advisory group. Stefan Davies in Hamilton brings substantial experience in virtual CFO and advisory services, focusing on property, construction, and investment sectors. Auckland-based Jamie Dawson is a transaction specialist who supports clients through sale processes, acquisitions, and complex tax matters. Alex Kingston, also in Auckland, is recognised for his work with clients in the financial services, technology, and healthcare sectors. Dunedin's Luke Murdoch has a background in business advisory and tax, supporting large and growing firms through complex regulatory issues. Stephen Walker, who joined Deloitte in the UK and moved to New Zealand in 2013, currently advises on employment tax and inbound high net worth migrant matters from Auckland.
Technology and transformation
The technology and transformation stream sees Oisin Collins and Bryan Daly join the partner ranks. Collins started his Deloitte career in Dublin and has been based in Auckland since 2021, delivering advisory and major ERP transformation projects. Daly, also in Auckland, has expertise in strategic programme delivery, technology change, and the design of delivery operating models for various organisations.
Strategy, risk and transactions
Within strategy, risk and transactions, Mary Kilkelly (Wellington), Rod Harris (Auckland), and Thomas Watson (Auckland) have all been appointed partners. Kilkelly brings close to two decades of infrastructure experience across sectors in New Zealand and overseas, focusing on transport and water infrastructure advisory. Harris joined the firm with over 20 years' experience in professional and services industries, concentrating on M&A advisory and corporate finance. Watson works with corporate and private businesses on transaction readiness, deal strategy, and execution as part of Deloitte's M&A advisory team.
In addition to the partner appointments, the firm also promoted 19 new directors across its New Zealand operations over the past year.
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