Meet our graduate and newly appointed Senior Partner of PwC UK and the Middle East

Marco Amitrano (Electrical and Electronic Engineering, 1992) recently sat down with us to share insights into his career journey, PwC's commitment to education, and his advice for recent graduates.

Marco’s path from PwC’s Newcastle office to Senior Partner is a testament to the opportunities and experiences Newcastle University can provide.

Throughout his career, Marco has maintained close ties to the University, from giving back his time as a board member inspiring philanthropic support across all aspects of university life, to recently running as part of Team Newcastle in this year’s Great North Run, helping to raise funds for students who need it most.

Hi Marco, its lovely to speak to you. Could you please introduce yourself and tell us more about your role as Senior Partner at PwC UK? 

As well as being a Newcastle University graduate, I’m also a graduate of Columbia Business School in New York, a qualified Chartered Accountant, and a fully accredited Chartered Management Consultant.  

I began my career 32 years ago at PwC’s Newcastle office, never imagining I would one day become Senior Partner. Over the years, I’ve learned a great deal from colleagues and clients, and through helping businesses transform using new technologies. I became a partner in 2005 and joined the UK Management Board in 2016. 

Being elected Senior Partner in April this year was a proud moment. My role is to ensure our people are equipped and empowered to deliver the best of PwC’s multi-disciplinary expertise to clients, whether by adopting the right technology or investing in talent.  

PwC has a long-established partnership with Newcastle University. Could you tell us more about PwC’s commitment to supporting educational initiatives, including those at Newcastle University?  

At PwC, we’re proud to be the UK’s top graduate employer. Training and learning are central to our business, and we partner with schools and universities nationwide to enhance education, provide paid work experience, and create internships. 

One key initiative is the Flying Start programme with Newcastle University, a 20-year collaboration that combines academic study with paid work placements, helping students become ICAEW Chartered Accountants. 

Our community efforts include mentoring, serving on educational charity boards, and delivering employability sessions. We're committed to ensuring students from all backgrounds have access to quality education and advancement opportunities. 

Since graduating, you have maintained a strong link to the University, including your role as a board member. Can you tell us more about what you hope to achieve in this role?  

I got so much out of my time at Newcastle and wanted to champion the University. I believe alumni play a role in helping the University continue fostering purpose and confidence in its students.  

There’s also a great deal of overlap between our missions. Whether it's navigating disruptive technology or addressing the need for greater inclusion, I see the University as a vital hub for collaboration and innovation. Sharing resources and ideas makes sense and can lead to meaningful progress. 

Through my role on the Board, I hope to contribute to initiatives that not only enhance the student experience but also strengthen the University's ability to drive positive change in the wider world.

Congratulations on recently completing the Great North Run and raising money for Newcastle students who need it most. Why did you decide to join Team Newcastle in this epic challenge and what does it mean to you?  

I love a challenge, and this one was perfect. The city and University shaped me, so giving back feels right. My time at Newcastle offered me opportunities that influenced my career and personal growth, and I want future generations to have the same. 

I'm also a keen runner - it helps me unwind and is a great way to explore. I enjoyed reliving memories of Newcastle throughout the 13 miles. 

Marco Amitrano (far right), with fellow PwC colleagues Shaun Boyle (M&A Advisory Senior Manager at PwC UK), and Rob McCargow (Technology Impact Leader at PwC) with Vice-Chancellor and President of Newcastle University, Professor Chris Day

Marco Amitrano (second from the right), with fellow PwC colleagues Shaun Boyle (M&A Advisory Senior Manager at PwC UK), and Rob McCargow (Technology Impact Leader at PwC UK) with Vice-Chancellor and President of Newcastle University, Professor Chris Day.

Do you have any favourite stand-out memories from your time at Newcastle University that you would be happy to share? 

I have many standout memories from my time in Newcastle, where I moved to at 18 after growing up in Bedfordshire, spending my formative years living with friends in Castle Leazes, Fenham, and Gosforth. Despite my engineering course requiring a lot of academic time, I fully embraced student life—enjoying the Students' Union, playing football, and visiting St James’ Park. 

I believe we should all maintain a lasting connection to where we studied, and for Newcastle alumni, it's something truly special. It's more than just education—it's a bond that embodies pride, encouragement, hope, and a belief in what's possible, along with the courage to pursue it. 

Finally, if you could give one piece of advice to recent graduates what would it be?  

Based on my experience, I believe university is a time for growth and exploration, not just earning a degree. Be open to new experiences and step out of your comfort zone. The connections you make now can be lasting, so invest in building meaningful relationships—it will benefit you in the long run. 

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