Ms Smillie has over 20 years of experience in professional services and has worked at the firm since 2005. She has a long history of successfully leading and managing public sector transformation programmes, delivering complex projects and working at the highest level across the public sector government.

Ms Smillie is the Scotland lead for Deloitte’s State of the State report, overseeing it for the last five years during which time she has engaged with a range of key Scottish organisations to assess the health and future of the public sector. Ms Smillie plans to build on the firm’s strong links with the public, private and charitable sector, as well as continuing to foster a culture that attracts, develops and retains the best talent.

Ms Smillie will be responsible for leading Edinburgh’s team of 450 staff, including the 30 people who joined Deloitte’s graduate and BrightStart apprenticeship and industrial placement programmes in the capital last year.

Ms Smillie succeeds Douglas Farish, who is retiring after nearly 40 years with Deloitte and Andersen. Previously, Farish was the firm’s Glasgow office senior partner for 10 years. He has led Deloitte’s Edinburgh team and the Scottish tax practice for the last five years. During his tenure as Edinburgh OSP, Farish oversaw the move to the team’s ‘future of work’ designed office at Haymarket Square in 2023.

Ms Smillie said: “Taking on this role is an opportunity to build on the strong foundation already in place, while ensuring that collaboration across our teams and service lines is at the heart of everything we do.

“My focus is on helping clients navigate increasingly complex challenges and opportunities including AI and digital transformation, while creating a culture in which our people can thrive. Attracting and developing the best talent, supporting diversity and inclusion, and fostering wellbeing are central to how we operate, and I want our Edinburgh office to remain a place where people are proud to work, innovate and grow.

“Equally, we have an opportunity to underline our integral role within Scotland’s wider business ecosystem reflected both in the work we deliver for clients and in how we engage with the wider community.”

Angela Mitchell, practice senior partner for Deloitte in Scotland, added: “Lesley brings extensive experience, deep sector knowledge and a genuine focus on both our people and clients.

“Her vision for fostering collaboration, supporting talent development and strengthening our impact in the Scottish market positions Deloitte Edinburgh for continued growth and success. My thanks, too, to Douglas who has led the office and wider practice with distinction.”