Richard Andrews appointed head of ESG at KPMG in the UK 

KPMG in the UK has today announced the appointment of Richard Andrews as head of environmental, social and governance (ESG), effective from the 1 June 2023.  

Formerly a partner within the firm’s financial services consulting practice, Richard has been with KPMG UK for over 25 years and brings with him extensive experience in controls, assurance and reporting, including significant expertise in SOX and ESG internal controls reform. Richard also holds various roles at The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), including being chair of their financial services faculty, and member of their technical strategy board and council.  

Richard succeeds John McCalla-Leacy, who in October last year was appointed the global head of ESG alongside his role as UK head of ESG. Following Richard’s appointment, John will be appointed vice chair for ESG in the UK while continuing in his global role. In his new role, Richard will report to both John McCalla-Leacy globally and Dan Thomas, UK head of markets.  

Jon Holt, Chief Executive, KPMG in the UK, said:  

“There are growing demands for companies to be more transparent when it comes to the way in which they run their business.  Investors, employees and governments want to see businesses make clear commitments, which can be understood and measured. Under the leadership of Richard and John, we’re investing heavily to meet demand from our clients for help with ESG strategy, assurance and reporting.”

 John McCalla-Leacy, partner and global head of ESG at KPMG, said:  

 “Now more than ever businesses need to be at the forefront of delivering positive change. Our global multi-disciplinary ESG teams are helping our clients to respond to these risks as well as capitalise on the opportunities that a low carbon economy presents.  Richard will be a huge asset in this regard, supporting our clients to achieve sustainable growth against a backdrop of global uncertainty and challenge” 

Richard Andrews, partner and incoming head of ESG at KPMG UK, said:  

 “Controls, assurance and reporting play a critical role in ensuring businesses deliver on their ESG strategy, which is no longer a ‘nice to have’, but their license to operate. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to bring my expertise to this role, helping our clients ensure their businesses can take advantages of the growth opportunities and have a lasting positive impact on the environment and society.”