Accountancy firm KPMG has today announced the promotion of David McCorquodale to UK Head of Retail.
Leaving his current position leading the firm‘s European retail transactions and restructuring practice, McCorquodale will replace Helen Dickinson, who is leaving the company to lead the British Retail Consortium (BRC) as Director General, formally taking up her post on January 1st 2013.
Liz Claydon, UK Head of Consumer Markets at KPMG, said: “David is a highly experienced adviser and his work with a host of the UK‘s best known retailers means he has built an enviable reputation within the sector.
“Using his knowledge and contacts David will continue to ensure KPMG is at the forefront of future retail industry trends and will lead our work with the BRC to produce the flagship BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor.
“I would like to thank Helen Dickinson who has made a tremendous contribution to our retail practice during her time with KPMG. David and I look forward to continue working closely with her in her important new role.”
McCorquodale is one of the founders of KPMG‘s corporate finance business and has worked at the company since 1984, advising both private and listed companies on acquisitions and fund raisings among other issues.
Recently leading the sale of fashion retailer Peacocks to Edinburgh Woollen Mill, McCorquodale also led the £20 million sale of Blacks Leisure to sports specialist retailer JD Sports as well as the £222 million sale of bed specialist retailer Dreams plc to Exponent.
Commenting on his appointment, McCorquodale said: “The retail industry continues to significantly evolve as consumer confidence remains at an all time low, the transfer from bricks and mortar to multichannel gathers pace, supply chains shorten and commodity prices fluctuate.
“The rapid take up of social media by consumers and the scrutiny this brings means that retailers are also facing intense pressure to deliver quality products from ethical sources at the right price.
“KPMG has worked hand in hand with retailers to help them to adapt and thrive in this rapidly changing environment.
“I wish to continue to drive forward the excellent relationships we have with our retail clients, bringing pioneering solutions and professional advice on many aspects of their businesses.”
