PwC Australia appoints Karen Lonergan as Chief People Officer

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA — PwC Australia has appointed Karen Lonergan as its new Chief People Officer.

Lonergan will replace Catherine Walsh, PwC Australia’s former Head of People & Culture, who joined Qantas in January. Lonergan’s appointment will take effect on July 1.

Lonergan holds over 25 years of experience in implementing transformative programs for enterprises’ workforce. 

She is currently the Chief People and Stakeholder Engagement Officer of real estate firm Stockland. Lonergan also held a similar role for retail firms David Jones and the Woolworths Group.

Additionally, Lonergan spent 13 years in the airline company Qantas where she held various positions, including Executive Manager of Human Resources and Executive Manager of Performance and Culture.

“Having worked across a wide range of sectors and companies, I am [energized] by the opportunity to apply my skills in a new environment,” Lonergan said.

“As the firm continues to make progress on its commitments to change, I look forward to contributing to its continued growth and success.”

Lonergan’s appointment comes while PwC Australia is embroiled in a tax scandal wherein a former partner leaked government tax plans. 

“PwC has taken swift and significant steps to advance its cultural transformation over the last several months, yet we know meaningful change takes time,” said PwC Australia CEO Kevin Burrowes.

PwC announced it would cut 329 staff, about 5% of its 7000-strong workforce, as part of a broader restructuring aimed at cutting $100 million in ongoing costs amid a weak consulting market.