Deloitte, the business advisory firm, has announced the admission of 13 new partners in the Middle East, along with the hiring and promotion of 17 principals and directors.

The firm has promoted and hired these leaders in all five of its key business areas – audit, tax, enterprise risk services (ERS), consulting and financial advisory – and in offices throughout 16 countries in the region. Globally, the firm has 182,000 people - including 10,000 partners - in 150 countries.

A number of additional appointments and transfers reflect the firm’s focus on addressing client needs in growth sectors in the region, including energy, oil & gas, telecommunications, technology, hospitality and financial services.

Many specialised professionals and leaders will be seconded from the Deloitte UK firm to the Middle East Consulting practice led by Julian Hawkins, a senior partner from the UK firm.

In addition, Ali Kazimi, a Deloitte UK tax associate partner, has transferred to the region to lead the ME International Tax Services Center, while Santino Saguto, joined the firm as partner in charge of the Telecommunications, Media and Technology (TMT) industry group.

“I am pleased to welcome such a talented group of leaders to the senior roles in our firm,” said Omar Fahoum, chairman and chief executive of Deloitte Middle East.

“At Deloitte we set the bar high for the contribution that our partners, principals and directors make across the board: consistently exceptional client service, technical excellence, and acting as inspiring role models for our people. I am excited by the contribution our new partners will make to the future success of our clients, who are facing a tough and challenging market environment,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service