She is set to succeed Hywel Ball, who is retiring from the firm at the end of the financial year.   

Ms Duncan’s selection followed a nomination process led by a specially constituted committee. Her appointment, along with the rest of the UK LLP Board members recommended by the committee, is subject to a vote by UK Equity Partners before the end of June, under a newly agreed governance process.   

As UK chair, Ms Duncan will lead the UK LLP Board, ensuring its effective collaboration with firm management and providing independent oversight. This appointment adheres to the FRC Audit Firm Governance Code, which necessitated the separation of the UK chair and managing partner roles.

Anna Anthony was appointed UK & Ireland regional managing partner in January this year.

With over 30 years at EY, including more than 20 as a Partner, Ms Duncan brings extensive experience. She has served as global client service partner and lead audit partner for several FTSE 100 companies and is currently EY’s UK Head of Regulatory and Public Policy. Ms Duncan is already a member of the UK LLP Board, chairs the UK Audit Committee, and has held significant past governance positions within EY globally. She also serves on the board of the education charity Teach First.   

Alison Duncan, EY UK Chair, comments: “Having been a member of the UK LLP Board for over three years, I understand the importance of having a strong UK Chair who can provide oversight and governance of the firm.

“It is truly an honour and a privilege to have been selected for this role, and I am looking forward to working with Anna Anthony, the Board, and our wider Partner group as we continue to grow the business, serve our clients and create exceptional careers for EY people.”

Anna Anthony, EY UK & Ireland Regional Managing Partner, said: “With more than 30 years of experience, Alison brings a wealth of knowledge and will provide the skills, challenge and oversight needed as we continue to grow and evolve in a rapidly changing macro-economic environment.”

Hywel Ball, outgoing EY UK Chair, added: “It has been an honour to lead this incredible organisation over the last five years as UK Chair and I’m proud to be handing over the baton to leaders who will continue to drive the next stage of EY’s evolution a firm.

“Anna and Alison are exceptional leaders who will ensure that EY continues to thrive as a business, whilst also serving the public interest.”