New financial services leader revealed at PwC

PwC on Tuesday announced the appointment of Tom Gunson as its new financial services leader of the business’ consulting, assurance, and financial advisory services in Australia and will replace Julie Coates, who was in the role for just under six years.

In his new role, which he’s assumed effective immediately, Mr Gunson will be responsible for ensuring the firm’s financial services clients have access to the “skills and talents” required to create growth opportunities and build trust, with digitisation at the fore.

Mr Gunson has spent the last seven years as the lead relationship partner for one of the firm’s “iconic financial services clients” and has worked with a number of others to deliver the firm’s financial services offering.

He rejoined PwC Australia in 2014 as partner after a three-year secondment from PwC UK, where he was a partner in its consulting practice for more than 14 years.

Speaking on the appointment, Mr Gunson said he was honoured to be given the opportunity to lead the unit and work with the diverse 1,500-strong team across the consulting, assurance and financial advisory businesses.

“With our economy rebounding and a sophisticated financial services sector with renewed purpose,” he said, “the financial services sector will be pivotal and well-positioned to help drive the rebound and the growth ahead as we emerge from the pandemic and the significant challenges it has posed.

“This creates opportunities for our clients to deliver on their purpose via digitally enabled human interactions powered by partnerships.

“I’m keen to continue contributing to our clients’ success and to the integrity of Australia’s financial system by leveraging the best of our local and global capabilities and digital assets.”

PwC consulting leader, David McKeering welcomed Mr Gunson’s appointment and the financial services experience he brings with him.

“Tom brings a wealth of knowledge and global connections to this role and I am personally looking forward to the brand defining impact he will make in the financial services market,” Mr McKeering said.

Mr Gunson’s appointment accompanies two others at the firm, which will see Ms Coates assume the role of business markets leader of the firm’s consulting business, as well as global relationship leader and global platforms leader.

Mr McKeering thanked Ms Coates for the dedication and passion she brought to her five years in the role.

“I also want to thank Julie for her leadership of our One PwC Financial Services Industry over the last five years,” he said. “Her dedication and passion has driven the growth and success of the Financial Services Industry and I look forward to continuing to work with her in her new role.”

The series of appointments also named Sam Garland as banking and capital markets leader within the firm’s financial services practice in Australia. He commences the role effective immediately.

Neil Griffiths

Neil is the Deputy Editor of the wealth titles, including ifa and InvestorDaily.

Neil is also the host of the ifa show podcast.