Big Four firm KPMG has appointed James Byrne as a Partner within its debt advisory practice. He joins the team as clients across the energy and infrastructure sectors consider taking on debt to fuel major transformation drives.
Businesses are facing a historic combination of challenges in the current economy – from the transition to net zero, to the drive for digitalisation, firms are having to invest large sums of money in transforming their operations – making the need for advice on funding options and access to debt capital greater than ever. The arrival of James Byrne at KPMG’s debt advisory team will play a key role in helping it meet such demand.
Jonathan Boyers, Head of Corporate Finance at KPMG, commented, “James is highly experienced in this area and has a fantastic track record of advising a diverse range of clients on these very issues. He will complement our Deal Advisory offering across energy and infrastructure and we’re delighted to welcome him to our growing team.”
Byrne brings over 18 years of corporate finance experience, with particular expertise in energy and infrastructure sectors, and has wider experience across the financial services, technology, industrials and consumer sectors. Previously at Evercore, he has advised corporates, private equity, infrastructure funds and government on a variety of debt financing transactions.
Looking ahead, Byrne’s new role will see him based in London. Using his sector expertise, he will lead KPMG’s debt advisory capability in energy and infrastructure, and provide additional senior leadership to the debt advisory function.
Reflecting on his appointment, Byrne added, “I’m thrilled to be joining KPMG at what is a pivotal time for many organisations, and one of continued strong deal activity across energy transition and infrastructure. I’m looking forward to working with our talented team to help clients secure optimal funding solutions and realise their strategic objectives.”
KPMG operates from 22 offices across the UK with approximately 15,300 partners and staff. Embedded within KPMG’s deal advisory practice in the UK, its debt advisory team provides nationwide debt advice to clients across sectors. The group consists of advisors, lenders and investors, and has advised on more than £60 billion of financings over the last two years.
Amid this demand, KPMG has been working to build its capacity and expertise in its debt advisory wing. Earlier in the summer, the firm also appointed Anton Krawchenko as a Managing Director within the practice. He now leads the unit’s offerings for clients in the financial services sector.
