EY has named Jonathan Zhao as the new Regional Managing Partner (RMP) of its Asia-Pacific Financial Services Organization (FSO), taking over from Gary Hwa starting on July 1, 2024. Patrick Winter, EY Asia-Pacific Area Managing Partner says, “Our financial services business is an integral part of our Asia-Pacific and global organizations. Jonathan brings decades of deep industry expertise and relationships from around the world to benefit some of our largest clients worldwide. As he transitions into his new role, I look forward to seeing our next chapter of growth in financial services as we continue to focus on client needs and exceptional client service".
Currently serving as the EY Asia-Pacific FSO Strategy and Transactions Leader since 2018, Jonathan Zhao oversees the implementation of EY’s Connected Capital Solutions for financial services clients throughout the Asia-Pacific region. This encompasses five distinct service offerings focusing on Strategy, Corporate Finance, Buy and Integrate, Sell and Separate, and Reshaping Results, where he drives all facets of clients' capital and transaction strategies. Formerly, he held the position of EY Asia-Pacific Insurance Sector Leader in 2013. Zhao's tenure with EY began in 2000, and he transitioned from the Chicago office to Hong Kong in 2005 to facilitate leadership, improved coordination, and knowledge exchange between EY Global and EY Asia-Pacific.
With close to three decades of comprehensive experience, Jonathan Zhao has provided guidance to financial services institutions on intricate strategies, mergers & acquisitions, business process integration and transformation, as well as risk management and performance enhancements. He has spearheaded numerous multibillion-dollar transactions across the Asia-Pacific region and is widely acknowledged as a prominent advisor for insurance deals in the area. Additionally, in his role as the Asia-Pacific FSO Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness (DE&I) Sponsor, he collaborates with partners, professionals, and clients to advance diversity, social equity, inclusivity and foster positive workplace transformations.
Jonathan Zhao, EY Asia-Pacific Financial Services Regional Managing Partner-elect says, “I am honored to be selected to lead the EY Asia-Pacific Financial Services business. We have remarkable people in our team, which has continued to grow over the years, and I am proud of their achievements. As I transition into this role, I aim to build on this solid foundation and grow our business further, leaning on my years of experience leading some of our largest global client accounts”.
FSO operates as a fully dedicated and integrated entity, employing a distinct approach solely directed towards meeting the requirements of EY's clients in the financial services sector. It serves as the representative for numerous prestigious entities in asset management, banking, capital markets, insurance and wealth management, including some of the largest and most esteemed names in the industry.