Mazars’ Gareth Davies preferred candidate for Comptroller & Auditor General

07 January 2019
The Prime Minister has today announced that Gareth Davies, Head of Public Services at Mazars, the international accounting and advisory firm, is the preferred candidate to succeed Sir Amyas Morse as the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG).

The C&AG is responsible for leading the National Audit Office (NAO), the independent body responsible for scrutinising public spending for Parliament of all central government departments, agencies and other public bodies. Its public audit perspective helps Parliament hold government to account and improve public services. Gareth’s appointment is subject to approval by the House of Commons, and will take effect from 1 June 2019 for a 10 year fixed term of office.

Gareth has served as UK Head of Public Services for Mazars since 2012, during which time the team of specialists has grown from 40 to more than 200, providing a range of audit, assurance and advisory services to local authorities, NHS organisations, central government departments, police and crime commissioners, social housing organisations, and education bodies. He previously served as Managing Director of the Audit Commission’s audit practice.

Phil Verity, Mazars UK Senior Partner, said: “We are sorry to lose Gareth, but are also proud of his prestigious appointment. While heading our Public Services offering, Gareth has demonstrated the integrity, strategic vision, and leadership skills which will serve him well in his role as Comptroller and Auditor General, head of the National Audit Office.

“Gareth has created a strong leadership team within the Public Services practice, and we will continue to make preparations to ensure a smooth transition. We view Gareth’s appointment as a reflection of the regard in which our firm and our people are held, and wish him well in his new post”.

ENDS