RSM, the sixth largest network of independent audit, tax and consulting firms, has appointed Gregor Schmidt as its new European Regional Leader.

Gregor’s appointment follows a successful 2017 which saw RSM grow by 6% in Europe, with expansion into Bulgaria and mergers in Germany, Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Poland, Republic of Ireland and the UK.

As Regional Leader, Gregor will drive RSM’s long-term global strategy within the region, focused on developing member firm growth and increasing our cross-border client services. Working closely with the leadership of RSM’s members in Europe, Gregor will support firms to implement business development, marketing and client service strategies focused on strengthening the brand and driving RSM’s vision to be the adviser of choice to the middle market globally.

Gregor joined RSM’s German member firm as Chief Operating Officer in 2012 before becoming Chief Officer of Strategy, Markets and Communications in 2016. Recently, Gregor played a key role in the merger of RSM’s German firms, and the creation of RSM GmbH; a single-practising entity, and strong and stable platform for future consolidation and growth.

Reporting directly to RSM International’s CEO, Jean Stephens, Gregor will use his leadership and professional skills to help firms achieve their shared goals across Europe. The role will see Gregor take on a jurisdiction of 41 countries, as he works alongside RSM’s European Leadership Team and European Regional Council.

Jean Stephens, CEO, RSM International commented: “Gregor has been with RSM for many years now and has demonstrated his strong leadership and professional experience. He was part of the international team that helped to shape our global brand as well as leading the integration of RSM GmbH. He also brings his considerable experience of working with Germany’s Mittelstand to the whole of Europe, as we continue to serve the global middle market. We welcome Gregor to the RSM International team and I look forward to seeing our European region grow even stronger in the years to come.”

Gregor Schmidt, European Regional Leader, RSM International commented: “Europe is in an exciting period of change. Brexit will of course disrupt business, but on top of this, there are new complex European regulations on data, a renewed scrutiny of international taxation and the international trade landscape is being transformed. More than ever, European businesses are looking to their advisers to both understand their needs and aspirations and to anticipate and respond to these challenges. I look forward to driving growth for our clients and for RSM during this era.”