Steve Varley: A Visionary Leader in Business, Sustainability, and Social Impact
In the world of professional services, corporate governance, and sustainability leadership, Steve Varley has carved out a reputation as one of the most influential figures of his generation. Known for his strategic insight, people-first leadership, and strong advocacy for sustainability, Varley’s career spans more than three decades, with prominent roles at Andersen Consulting (later Accenture), EY, and most recently, as Chair of Unity Advisory, DWF Group, and the Liverpool Football Club Foundation. His journey reflects a combination of corporate success, social responsibility, and personal commitment to making a lasting difference.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of Steve Varley’s career, his ventures such as Unity Advisory, his pivotal years at EY, his involvement with global organisations, and his personal life.
Early Life and Education
Loughborough University
Steve Varley pursued a BEng in Engineering at Loughborough University between 1986 and 1990. During his time there, he was actively engaged in student activities, including university football, and graduated with First-Class Honours.
His education at Loughborough laid the foundation for his analytical mindset, leadership qualities, and resilience. Later in life, he returned to his alma mater as a Non-Executive Board Member, a position he held from 2014 to 2023. This role allowed him to contribute to student engagement and to align academic aspirations with opportunities in global professional services.
Career Journey
Andersen Consulting / Accenture
Steve Varley began his career at Andersen Consulting in 1991. Over the course of 14 years, he rose through the ranks and ultimately became a Partner. His years here shaped his skills in executive management and client-facing consulting, giving him exposure to the fast-paced, high-pressure world of global advisory services.
EY: Chairman and Managing Partner UK&I
In 2005, Varley joined EY (Ernst & Young) and quickly made his mark. By 2011, he was appointed Chairman and Managing Partner of EY UK & Ireland, a position he held for nearly a decade. Under his leadership, EY UK&I revenues grew from £1.35 billion to £2.6 billion, and employee numbers rose from 14,000 to 20,000. His tenure is often highlighted as a period of remarkable growth and cultural transformation.
EY Global Vice Chair of Sustainability
In 2020, Steve Varley transitioned into the role of Global Vice Chair of Sustainability at EY. He led the expansion of the firm’s sustainability practice, growing it from 3,500 to 8,500 professionals worldwide. His work ensured that EY played a leadership role in global sustainability efforts, including becoming carbon-negative. He remained in this role until 2023 and continued as a Senior Advisor until 2024.
Varley’s years at EY are remembered for bold leadership, an emphasis on diversity and inclusion, and embedding sustainability into corporate strategy.
Unity Advisory: A New Chapter
In 2025, Steve Varley co-founded and became Chair of Unity Advisory, a pioneering advisory-only firm backed by Warburg Pincus with $300 million in funding. The firm set out to disrupt the consulting landscape by providing AI-powered, technology-first advisory services, without engaging in audit.
Unity Advisory Steve Varley
As Chair, Varley has positioned Unity Advisory as a client-focused organisation that blends innovation with independence. Unlike traditional models, Unity Advisory avoids conflicts of interest, allowing it to offer fresh perspectives to clients in a rapidly evolving business world. This venture illustrates Varley’s adaptability and forward-looking vision, blending corporate expertise with technological innovation.
Leadership Roles Beyond Unity Advisory
Chair of DWF Group
In 2024, Varley became Chair of DWF Group, a global law firm and business services provider. His role has focused on shaping strategy and overseeing governance at a time when professional services firms face intense competition and regulatory scrutiny.
Chair of Liverpool Football Club Foundation
Also in 2024, Varley was appointed Chair of the Liverpool FC Foundation, the charitable arm of the iconic football club. This role aligns with his long-standing commitment to social impact, community uplift, and youth engagement.
EY Foundation
Steve Varley has been a Patron of the EY Foundation since 2013. The foundation supports young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them to access employment and education opportunities.
UN Climate Change Advocate
In 2024, Varley served as a Special Advocate for UN Climate Change, contributing to global climate action dialogues and policies. His expertise from EY’s sustainability initiatives made him a natural fit for this role.
Social Business Trust
From 2010 to 2024, Varley was Patron of the Social Business Trust, an organisation dedicated to scaling social enterprises to benefit disadvantaged communities. His involvement highlighted his belief in using business principles to tackle social inequality.
Personal Life: Steve Varley Wife and Family
Beyond boardrooms and global initiatives, Steve Varley leads a grounded family life. He is married to Jane, a magistrate, whom he met during his early career at Andersen Consulting. Together, they have two children. Varley balances his professional commitments with personal well-being, often participating in endurance sports such as triathlons and half Ironman events.
His family plays an essential role in his life, and despite his demanding schedule, he prioritises time for family holidays and quality moments. Jane’s career in public service complements Varley’s professional ethos of responsibility and fairness.
Skills and Leadership Style
Executive Management Expertise
Throughout his career, Varley has demonstrated strong skills in executive management, overseeing growth strategies, governance frameworks, and sustainability initiatives.
Commitment to Diversity and Social Impact
Varley is a long-term supporter of diversity, equity, and inclusion, actively promoting gender equality in leadership roles and supporting initiatives like the 30% Club.
Advocate for Sustainability
From EY to the UN, Varley’s consistent message has been that sustainability is not optional but fundamental to business success. His leadership has inspired organisations to adopt sustainable practices at scale.
Organisations and Affiliations
Steve Varley’s influence extends across numerous organisations, reflecting his multidimensional approach to leadership:
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Unity Advisory – Chair
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DWF Group – Chair
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Liverpool Football Club Foundation – Chair
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EY Foundation – Patron
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UN Climate Change – Special Advocate
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Social Business Trust – Patron (2010–2024)
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Loughborough University – Former Non-Executive Board Member
Conclusion
Steve Varley’s story is one of continuous growth, innovation, and responsibility. From leading EY UK through a decade of expansion, championing sustainability as a global business priority, to co-founding Unity Advisory, he has consistently demonstrated vision and leadership. His roles at DWF, Liverpool FC Foundation, and global organisations like the UN Climate Change initiative showcase his commitment to combining professional success with positive societal impact.
At the heart of his journey lies a simple truth: Varley is not just a corporate leader but a changemaker who believes business can and should serve a greater purpose. Whether guiding multinational firms or supporting charitable foundations, Steve Varley continues to inspire the next generation of leaders to pursue excellence with integrity and vision.
