Baker Tilly International names new CEO

Baker Tilly International names new CEO

Ted Verkade will lead the global network from 1 July 2016

Baker Tilly International, the world’s eighth largest accounting and advisory network, today announced that the International Board of Directors (the Board) has unanimously voted Ted Verkade as chief executive officer and president. Ted will succeed Geoff Barnes who will retire from that role in June 2016 and will remain as a member of the Board.

Ted brings more than 30 years of relevant industry experience to the role having been a partner in the network’s Dutch member, Baker Tilly Berk, for 20 years. Following a long career in the audit practice with a focus on growing the firm’s international client base, he has held several leadership positions within the firm. For the last six years he has been a managing director of the firm and he currently is the chairman of the firm’s Board of Directors.

He has been Baker Tilly International’s regional chairman for Europe, Middle East & Africa for 10 years, a period in which coverage in the region was expanded from 49 to 80 countries. During the last five years Ted has taken a leading role in setting the strategic direction of the network and the alignment of member firms globally.

Staples Rodway Partner David Searle said: “As an independent member of Baker Tilly International, we are very excited to welcome Ted as the network’s new CEO and president. His focus on driving international business growth and his ability to think strategically will play a pivotal role in continuing to move the global network forward. Having known Ted for a number of years, I believe the network and our firm will benefit enormously from his talent and experience. I’m looking forward to collaborating with Ted to reinforce Baker Tilly International’s position as a network of closely aligned, premier independent accounting firms servicing leading national and global organisations.”

Commenting on his appointment Ted Verkade said: “I’m excited and honoured to be leading the network at a time when there is much change in the accounting profession worldwide. Over the next 12 months, Geoff and I will be working closely together on a transition programme to ensure we deliver the network’s strategic objectives. Under Geoff’s leadership, Baker Tilly International has become a robust global network with high-calibre member firms and many talented individuals. I look forward to working with the Global Office team and our member firms to continue the network’s track record of success.”

Commenting on Ted’s appointment, Geoff Barnes said: “I am thrilled the Board has voted unanimously and selected Ted as my successor. I am enthusiastic about welcoming Ted as the network’s new leader and to ensure there is a smooth transition for the benefit of our member firms, clients and employees.”

Geoff will remain a member of the Board following his retirement.

ENDS

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