Kevin O'connor

Kevin O’Connor is the Executive Chairman at RSM UK. He took up this role in April 2020, when he was appointed to the RSM UK Board. He was previously the Regional Managing Partner for Yorkshire and the North-East.

Kevin joined RSM in 1999 as a tax partner at the Leeds office and became the office’s managing partner in 2002. He then added responsibility for its operations in the rest of Yorkshire and the North-East to his remit, as well as becoming the firm’s National Head of Tax.

Kevin has significant experience in managing and building significant businesses within RSM as well as advising clients including three HE institutions during his 40 year professional career. His role as Chair of RSM has given him considerable experience in board and governance matters in large organisations.

He was also a trustee of the Leeds Community Foundation for nine years, including four as Chair, giving him detailed insight into running a not-for-profit organisation. The Governor’s role will allow Kevin to use his commercial experience to benefit the University as it moves towards its 2026 vision. Kevin is a practicing catholic and the principles of the and ethos of the University resonate very strongly with him.

Kevin is a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and a member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation. Away from work, he enjoys spending time with his four children and three grandchildren, and is a keen golfer.