Mr Harding joins AAB with significant experience as audit partner having held roles at EY, BDO and Grant Thornton. In his new role, he will be responsible for the strategic leadership and continued expansion of AAB’s audit function, ensuring the firm continues to deliver high-quality, insight-led audit services to a growing and increasingly diverse client base. The audit function at AAB has grown by more than 20% in 2025, now employing more than 300 people across the 17 locations in the UK and Ireland. 

Alongside Mr Harding’s appointment, James Pirrie has moved into the newly created role of audit head of markets. In this position, Mr Pirrie will focus on supporting the firm’s ambitious growth plans by strengthening market presence, developing key client relationships and helping to shape the future direction of the audit service line.

The leadership changes reflect AAB’s continued investment in its people and services, following a period of sustained growth across the UK and Ireland.

John Beevers, head of professional services at AAB, said: “Gary’s appointment is a significant step for our audit business.

“He brings a wealth of experience, strong leadership and a clear strategic vision that aligns perfectly with AAB’s growth ambitions.

“With Gary leading the audit function and James moving into a market-focused role, we have a powerful leadership combination that will help us continue to scale while maintaining the quality of senior-led relationships our clients value.”

“These changes underline our commitment to building a market-leading audit offering across the UK and Ireland, as part of AAB’s wider growth journey.”

Mr Harding added: “I’m excited to be joining AAB at such a pivotal time in its growth journey. The firm has a strong reputation, a clear strategy and a people-first culture.

“I’m looking forward to working with the team across to build on that momentum and support clients as they navigate an increasingly complex business environment.”