John Harley has been named as E&Y's new head of private equity.

The firm said: 'Ernst & Young has appointed John Harley to head of private equity for Northern Europe, Middle East, India and Africa - demonstrating Ernst & Young’s commitment to these industries.'

Harley joined Ernst & Young in 2000 as global leader responsible for the technology, media & telecoms corporate finance practice, before stepping up to run the TMT European team betwen 2003 and 2005.

He said: 'I am delighted to be appointed to this role and to have the opportunity to lead growth in these vital and dynamic businesses, building on the excellent credentials that E&Y have already established. Private equity remains an important part of the UK and Global economies. I look forward to working with our private equity team and clients.'

Harley returns to the NEMIA practice after spending nearly three years as Global Vice-Chairman of our Accounts, Industries and Business Development, responsible for major change to E&Y's global approach to serving clients.

Mark Otty, chairman of Ernst & Young in the UK and NEMIA managing partner, added: 'The wealth of experience that John brings to this role will make a significant contribution to the firm’s commitment to this very important market opportunity.'