BANBRIDGE-born Caitroina McCusker has been appointed by PwC as regional market leader for Northern Ireland to succeed Kevin MacAllister when retires next month after 34 years with the professional services firm.
She joined the firm as consultant in 2000 following graduation from Ulster University and brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role.
She led some of the largest digital transformation programmes in higher education institutions (HEIs) across the UK and globally in her role as PwC’s education leader in the government and health industries sector.
With over 20 years’ experience as a business transformation consultant, Cat helped HEIs at a local and global level to identify and implement the right technology, strategy and people experience.
She said: “I’m excited to be appointed to the role of regional market leader. Coming from Northern Ireland, I fully recognise the opportunities that the next few years bring for PwC and our clients here.
“I’d like to pay tribute to Kevin and the fantastic work he has done over the last two years as regional market leader. His efforts means he leaves behind a firm ready to take advantage of the opportunities presented.”
In his two years in the leadership role, MacAllister successfully navigated PwC through the challenges presented by the pandemic, while still managing to achieve rapid growth and transitioning the firm’s 3,300 people into the new £70 million Merchant Square office.
Carl Sizer, PwC’s head of regions, said: “I’m delighted that Cat will be our new regional market leader in Northern Ireland.
“The pandemic has presented both challenges and opportunities to the firm and Cat brings a wealth of experience and expertise that will support the continued growth of this business. Her appointment demonstrates our Northern Ireland commitment and sector focus.
“I would also like to thank Kevin MacAllister for his dedication, enthusiasm and expertise over the last 34 years. He has been a great stalwart to the firm; his time with the firm, including most recently as the regional market leader, has been underpinned by a strong commitment to contribute to the growth of Northern Ireland’s economy and his dedication to supporting businesses locally and internationally. I wish him all the best for the future.”
Kevin MacAllister said: “I've enjoyed my career in the firm. Northern Ireland has gone through substantial periods of change and navigated several uncertainties, but we have also grown to the challenge of scaling up and meeting the needs of our clients. I will leave knowing that PwC Northern Ireland is in a fantastic position to capitalise on the opportunities and continue our impressive growth.
“Cat’s appointment is fantastic news for the firm. I have worked with her on a number of projects and the energy, commitment and drive she has for our clients and the Northern Ireland market is clear to see. I will work closely with Cat in my remaining weeks to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible. I wish her every success in her new role.”
