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The Centre for Public Interest Audit (CPIA), a new research and policy institute that aims to shape the future of public interest entity (PIE) audit in the UK, has announced the appointment of Dean Beale as its new executive director from 13 May 2025.
Beale, who joins after a “distinguished” civil service career, brings over 25 years of experience in the insolvency sector.
He most recently served as the chief executive and inspector general of the UK’s Insolvency Service, where he led efforts to enhance corporate governance and tackle financial misconduct. In this capacity, he managed policy development, regulated the sector, and oversaw insolvency cases such as British Steel and Thomas Cook.
Baroness Margaret Ford OBE, chair of the CPIA, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Dean to the CPIA as he takes the lead in driving quality, resilience, and trust in the auditing of some of the UK’s most systemically important companies.
“The importance of public interest entities and the value of audit must remain a priority for the UK as a leading capital market. Securing such a high calibre, experienced executive to lead the CPIA and engender real change is truly fantastic.”
Beale added: “I am excited to join the CPIA at this pivotal moment with significant audit reforms on the horizon. I look forward to working closely with Baroness Ford, our members, the regulator, and wider stakeholders to promote a resilient and trusted audit profession – one that holds integrity, transparency and accountability at its core.”
The CPIA brings together leaders from across the profession as a single, standalone voice to support reform, shape best practice in UK public interest entity (PIE) audits, and drive meaningful change.
Through rigorous research, policy recommendations, and engagement with key stakeholders, the CPIA seeks to enhance audit resilience, improve market confidence, and ensure that audit remains “a cornerstone of financial stability and corporate accountability”.
