PwC appoints new UK Defence leader

PwC has appointed Ian Hillier as a new leader in its UK Defence team. Hillier has worked across the firm’s public and private defence sector businesses over the last 10 years.

During this time, he has helped clients to “transform” the delivery of their critical projects, securing improved cost efficiency and delivering better programme outcomes. 

Hillier has also provided business advice to clients within the Capital Projects and Infrastructure market for the last 15 years, working with clients in the UK, Europe, Asia and Africa. 

Additionally, he has also supported organisations in other industries, including Transport, Utilities, Industrial Manufacturing.

PwC said Hillier’s appointment comes at a time when the UK is renewing its operational focus on developing defence based capabilities in the public and private sectors, including defence space strategies.

The firm added that investing appropriately, making the right strategic choices, optimising investment opportunities and bold leadership will be critical if the UK is to turn strategy into action and into credible military capabilities.

Quentin Cole, UK head of Industries at PwC UK, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Ian into his new role, especially in light of the complex geopolitical and macroeconomic issues facing the world and which continue to challenge our clients, who are increasingly asking for our support.

“The war in Ukraine and ongoing supply chain disruption are factors which present significant strategic and management challenges to both our public and private sector clients, particularly around areas such as net-zero, innovation, recruitment and retention of a skilled workforce and cost management.”

He added: “Ian has a deep understanding of these challenges as well as extensive experience of collaborative working across borders, both of which will be vital in the months ahead.”