empire into the next century.

Chairman and CEO of the US branch of the firm Stephen Butler, 51, was elected chairman of KPMG International to take over from October.

He will lead a firm of more than 100,000 employees that operates in 157 countries from over 800 offices with $10.4 billion of revenue last year -- more than 15.6 percent growth on the previous year.

KPMG Bermuda managing partner Bob Steinhoff welcomed the appointment yesterday.

"I am delighted with the appointment of Steve Butler. He is the right leader to move KPMG forward into the new millennium.

Mr. Butler said: "The future is bright for KPMG and its people and market demand for our services is consistently strong.

"We'll continue the work Colin Sharman initiated in moving KPMG toward a vision that emphasises a robust, globally managed product line organisation -- a cohesive and capable KPMG that effectively serves multinational clients.'' He will take over from previous chairman Colin Sharman who was the former senior partner of the firm's UK practice and is due to step down in September.

Mr. Sharman said: "Steve Butler has driven the US practice forward with single minded resolve. This energy, combined with his practical experience of the international firm, make Steve the ideal international chairman.'' BUSINESS BUC