Today in DERP news: Back in September, the fire alarm rang out at KPMG's London office as UK Chairman Simon Collins was "dashing off to a high-end dinner."
In a recent email sent to staff, he had to explain that in his rush to leave the building, his briefcase hit the alarm, sending everyone into a panic while he jumped in his car and took off. No word on whether he was late for that high-end dinner.
"I had to walk down the stairs, wearing a white tie, carrying three bags, feeling massively guilty, and climb into my car looking as cool as possible," Collins said in the email.
Collins' promotion to UK Chairman and Senior Partner was announced back in March and set to begin on October 1st. His predecessor said then "I am delighted that Simon will be taking over from me in October. He has received a clear mandate from the partnership and I am sure that under his leadership the firm has a bright future. Simon has already proven himself to be a fine partner and leader, greatly respected by his peers, clients and industry alike. At a time of regulatory uncertainty for our profession, I am certain that Simon will provide the strong and clear leadership needed in order to move the firm forward into the future.”
… or downstairs and out in front of the building for a fire alarm. Ouch, way to kick off your tenure by inconveniencing everyone on your way to some fancy dinner, buddy.
