PwC UK strengthens North East leadership team with three new directors

Three members of PwC’s North East team have been promoted to director, reflecting the firm’s continued investment in the Newcastle office and its work supporting businesses across the region.

New directors Toni Wood, Stephanie Lowry and Darren Griffin are among 29 people recognised across the North East in PwC’s summer promotions round.

Toni Wood joined PwC through its undergraduate programme and has spent the last 14 years building her career in audit. She has worked with a diverse portfolio of clients, with particular expertise across the rail, retail and renewable energy sectors. Alongside Toni’s client-facing work, she will continue to support PwC’s quality agenda through her role in the Chief Auditor Network.

Stephanie Lowry has worked at PwC for almost 14 years in a variety of regional and national marketing roles. She has led the marketing strategy for the Deals and Risk areas of the business and most recently was the UK marketing strategy and planning lead. Stephanie’s new role as a director in PwC’s global marketing team will see her leading the firm’s global brand campaign.

Darren Griffin has more than 28 years of experience in technology and digital transformation, specialising in policing, public safety and wider government services. He has spent the last 15 years at PwC, helping clients deliver major technology, data and transformation programmes. In his new role, Darren will lead teams that help organisations harness technology, data and AI to improve public services and outcomes.

Commenting on the new promotions in the Newcastle office, Richard Podd, PwC’s North East Market Senior Partner, said:

“These promotions are a fantastic achievement for Toni, Stephanie and Darren and reflect the depth of talent we have here in the North East.

“Newcastle is home to some exceptional people who are delivering transformative work for clients locally and nationally. Investing in our people and developing future leaders remains a key priority for us and I’m delighted to see so many colleagues recognised this year for the contribution they make to our clients, our communities and the wider North East economy.”

The promotions form part of PwC’s wider investment in its people, with more than 3,100 employees promoted across the UK so far this year.

Photo from left to right: Darren Griffin, Susan McNally (Newcastle office Managing Director), Toni Wood, Stephanie Lowry and Richard Podd.