Rae of sunshine as Julian takes key role at Deloitte in Cambridge

09 May, 2024
Newsdesk
Julian Rae has been named as new office senior partner for Deloitte Cambridge following Paul Schofield’s decision to step down after 10 years at the helm.
Thumbnail
Fran Cousins, Deloitte Practice Senior Partner with Paul Schofield (centre) and Julian Rae, new Cambridge office senior partner from June 1.

Rae, an audit and assurance partner, will take over the role on June 1. He joined the firm as a graduate in 1998 and has since enjoyed three stints in the Cambridge practice over the past 26 years, leading on some of Deloitte’s largest and most complex audits in the region specialising in technology, hi-tech manufacturing, and capital markets.

Most recently he was head of the firm’s Tech Foundry in Reading, before returning to Cambridge 18 months ago.

Rae is taking the reins at an exciting time for the firm as he will work alongside regional practice senior partner, Fran Cousins, to oversee the launch of Deloitte’s Life Sciences Catalyst business lounge, as well as driving the market strategy behind the new venture.

Rae will also be joined by another former Cambridge partner, Lizzie Hill who returns to Cambridge after leading Deloitte’s South West and Wales practice.

Rae said: “Cambridge is one of the most progressive regional economies in the UK and its future is as bright as its rich history. I’m delighted to be taking on the role of office senior partner and I’m looking forward to further supporting our people to grow their careers, continuing to work with the region’s leading organisations, and overseeing Deloitte as a driving force within the local ecosystem and leading professional services practice in the city.”

Paul Schofield has worked in professional services for 35 years, and been a partner for 25 years, 10 of those as senior partner at Deloitte Cambridge, during which the firm has more than doubled the size of its business in the region. He also led the firm to their current office in 2017, grown the Partner group and driven the establishment of the Life Sciences Catalyst.

Rae added: “Paul has built a formidable team and practice and I am delighted that he will continue to be part of our partnership. I have seen him lead our Cambridge team through extraordinary times whilst making a significant impact in our community.

“He has overseen and driven meaningful change in the composition of the team at Deloitte Cambridge and has been instrumental in growing our business and reputation in the region.”

Schofield added: “Julian has an enviable portfolio and range of contacts in the region working with early stage and public companies across a number of sectors, predominantly in tech and life sciences.

“I have no doubt that Julian will continue his great work with some of Deloitte’s largest clients as well as building the firm’s impact in the city.”

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the last 10 years building and leading such a talented team. I am extremely proud of all that we have achieved – making a positive impact in our community, in the careers of our own people and for our clients, as they have faced challenge, opportunity and achieved great things.”