Global accounting and consulting giant PwC has elected Marco Amitrano as its new boss for the UK and Middle East organisation.

Taking over from Kevin Ellis on July 1, Marco Amitrano will lead a business generating £5.8 billion in revenues and with approximately 25,000 people across the United Kingdom.

Amitrano also is responsible the £1.6 billion Middle East business of PwC (over 10,000 staff), which falls under the mantle of the UK business. Hani Ashkar will remain the Senior Partner for the Middle East.

A 32-year veteran of PwC, Amitrano is currently Managing Partner and Head of Clients and Markets at PwC. He has been a partner at the firm since 2005, on the Management Board since 2016, with previous leadership roles including Head of Consulting for EMEA and Global Head of Risk Assurance Services.

“Marco is a fantastic leader, with deep understanding of our business, our markets and the challenges our clients face. As part of my management board, I have seen the creativity and sound judgment he brings to complex situations, and the importance he places on the firm’s values. The partners have made the right choice in the leader for PwC’s next chapter,” said Kevin Ellis, senior partner at PwC.

Around 1,400 partners were eligible to participate in the election, with Amitrano coming out on top of a race that included female candidates on the shortlist for first time. In the final round, Amitrano triumphed against audit boss Hemione Hudson and tax leader Laura Hinton.

Looking ahead at his term in office, Amitrano said his three priorities would be to focus on technology, clients and PwC’s global network. “In an era of profound change, I want to ensure we stay ahead of the curve without losing sight of what makes PwC special for our people and our clients.”

Outgoing senior partner Ellis has been with PwC since 1984, and held the top role for eight years.

Globally, PwC generates revenues of over $53 billion, with Advisory its biggest line of business.