PwC partner David Morris has been appointed as the new regional leader for the Midlands region, with oversight over the Birmingham, East Midlands, and Milton Keynes practices. This appointment comes as Matthew Hammond, who served as regional leader for the past ten years, is taking on new responsibilities.
Matthew Hammond was initially the leader of PwC’s West region for two years before leading the firm across the Midlands for the past eight years. He also held the position of Senior Partner for the Birmingham office. During his tenure, PwC’s Midlands practice experienced significant growth, nearly doubling in size. This growth was accompanied by the addition of over 1,000 new roles and 44 new Partners. Despite challenges such as Brexit and the pandemic, Matthew successfully guided PwC’s Midlands firm through these uncertainties while achieving accelerated growth.
Matthew Hammond will continue to be based in Birmingham. In addition to expanding his already extensive client portfolio spanning multiple sectors, he will continue leading PwC’s Strategic International Markets group. Matthew has also been chosen to chair PwC’s Financial Crime business. Moreover, he will maintain his role as Chair of the West Midlands Growth Company.
Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Midlands firm over the past eight years, Matthew Hammond acknowledges the record growth achieved through investments in their people and Partners. He extends his congratulations to David on his appointment, emphasizing the critical timing of this period for the region’s economy. Matthew is confident that collaboration and leveraging emerging technologies will empower Midlands businesses to capitalize on new opportunities and sustain growth.
After more than 20 years with the firm, David Morris brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He most recently led the Health Services Sector, including through the challenges imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic. During his time with PwC, David played a pivotal role in supporting significant change programs in the public sector, advising boards, regulators, and central Government. He also served on the board of several large teaching hospitals.
Speaking about his new position, David Morris considers it a privilege to take on the role as Midlands leader. As a native of the Midlands, he views it as a full-circle moment that allows him to contribute to shaping the future of the Midlands firm. Recognizing the region’s abundant offerings, from its rich industrial history to its exceptional talent and educational institutions, David is committed to championing, nurturing, and developing the next generation. He recognizes the economic challenges faced by businesses as we approach the end of 2023 but also sees game-changing opportunities in areas such as productivity, technology, and ESG. David is eager to support businesses in promoting the Midlands as the premier destination.
Carl Sizer, PwC’s Head of Regions, warmly welcomes David Morris as the new regional market leader for the Midlands. He highlights David’s expertise and experience within the firm, which will provide a unique perspective to the role with a strong focus on supporting both talent and clients. Carl Sizer also expresses gratitude to Matthew Hammond for his dedicated service to the Midlands over the past eight years, acknowledging how his leadership has propelled the region to new heights.
