PwC Middle East announces leadership transition

• Laura Hinton has been appointed as incoming Middle East Senior Partner, succeeding Hani Ashkar at the conclusion of his term
• After serving as Middle East Senior Partner for more than 12 years, Hani Ashkar will take on a senior global responsibility with PwC
• Transition reflects continuity, long-term succession planning and PwC’s sustained commitment to the Middle East

15 January 2026; Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – PwC has appointed Laura Hinton as the incoming Middle East Senior Partner. Hinton, who has been serving as Deputy Territory Senior Partner, has been working closely with the regional leadership team and engaging with clients and teams across the Middle East. Her appointment follows the firm’s established governance process. She previously served as Managing Partner for the UK firm and EMEA cluster, bringing extensive experience in leading complex organisations and advising clients across major markets.

Hani Ashkar will complete his term as Middle East Senior Partner after more than twelve years leading the firm in the region, after which he will take on a senior global responsibility with PwC. During his tenure, he played a central role in shaping PwC’s growth and strengthening its presence and impact across the Middle East.

Ashkar and Hinton will commence a handover period from 1 April 2026 and continue to work together through the transition period to ensure full continuity for clients and teams and to advance the firm’s strategic priorities.

Reflecting on his tenure, Ashkar said: “It has been a privilege to lead PwC Middle East during a period of significant growth and transformation. Our firm has played an important role in supporting governments and businesses as they navigate change, and I am proud of what we have achieved together. Laura brings deep leadership experience and a strong track record and she is well positioned to lead the region in its next chapter.”

Under Ashkar’s leadership, PwC Middle East expanded significantly. The firm strengthened its regional presence through major investments, including upgraded offices across the network and the establishment of a flagship regional headquarters in Riyadh.

Hinton said: “I’m deeply honoured to be appointed to lead PwC Middle East at such a pivotal moment for the region. Having spent time with our clients and teams across the Middle East, I’ve seen first-hand the scale of ambition and the commitment to driving transformation and long-term value. I’m grateful to Hani for his leadership of the firm and really look forward to building on the strong foundations in place.”

Over the past decade, PwC Middle East has expanded its work in government transformation, digital and technology innovation. The firm has also continued to invest in national talent. Today, PwC supports organisations across the public and private sectors with multidisciplinary capabilities that deliver transformation and advance regional, national and long-term development priorities.

Under Hinton’s leadership and supported by a strong executive team, PwC Middle East will continue to build trusted relationships, deliver value for clients and develop high-performing regional talent. Ashkar will continue his leadership journey with PwC, bringing his experience and regional insight to the wider network.