Grant Thornton's head of tax, Francesca Lagerberg, is to become the firm's global leader - tax services as it is announced that Ian Evans will step down next year.

After six years on the Grant Thornton International global leadership team (GLT), and 26 years as a partner in the firm, Evans will be retiring at the end of June 2013.

Lagerberg will step up to fill his shoes with effect from 1 July but will begin the transition to the international role from April next year. Lagerberg has held her current position for four years.

Grant Thornton International CEO Ed Nusbaum said: 'Ian has made an outstanding contribution to the development of tax services around the world.'

Speaking of his 'delight' at Lagerberg's appointment, Nusbaum noted her contribution to 'increasing the firm's profile, driving internal projects and leading the development of the firm's Ambition 2015 plans for tax'.

He added: 'I look forward to welcoming her to the GLT.'