20 Under 40: Andrew Coates

Meet Andrew Coates, 39, partner at EY LLP and one of our 20 Under 40 Class of 2024 recipients

AS A PARTNER in EY’s Assurance practice, Andrew Coates balances managing a diverse client portfolio with mentoring and leading EY London’s talent development. Ensuring clients meet compliance obligations, he serves as a primary point of contact while connecting them with experts in the areas of tax, M&A, corporate finance and cybersecurity. From becoming a partner at 36 to mentoring junior colleagues and students on campus at Ivey Business School, he has dedicated his career to excellence and community impact, striving to inspire others to build success in London.

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What would you say is your single biggest business achievement, and why?

Advancement within my firm from an entry-level position out of Ivey to partner at the age of 36, all while being able to maintain a strong commitment to family and other personal interests. For many, pursuit of a senior-level position within a top-tier professional services firm results in abandonment of family commitments, ­hobbies and other personal pursuits. I am proud of the fact that I’ve been able to advance to my current level while being present for my family.

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give to your younger self?

Keep an open mind to new or unexpected personal and professional opportunities, even if it means deviating from a ­longer-term plan.

When you’re not working, what kind of things are you passionate about?

I like to be active, outdoors — or better yet, both. Over the past few years, I’ve been brushing up on my DIY handyman skills. It comes with mixed results, but outcomes aside, it’s a nice change of pace to work with my hands versus the day-to-day of spreadsheets and reports.

What’s the best movie or show you’ve watched this year, and what made you love it?

I really enjoyed Conclave with Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci. It’s a slow build with an excellent plot twist.

What’s left for you to do — ­professionally or personally?

I like to think that I have many good years ahead of me to further my personal and professional pursuits. With a young family, my primary focus in the near term will be closer to home. Longer term, my profession continues to evolve through technological advancements and regulatory changes — I’m curious and excited about what the landscape could look like in the years ahead. Interview by Kieran Delamont