"Set the example, for people to know that women can do anything they set out to do."
Role and Leadership
As National Leader for General Assurance, Agnes drives strategic clarity, oversees the firm’s five-year vision, and shapes the future of assurance services through technology adoption, talent development, and Africa-focused growth. She is instrumental in positioning SNG Grant Thornton as a purpose-led firm committed to Turning Growth into Shared Progress.
She plays a central role in delivering on the firm’s Vision 2030, a roadmap of aspirations and commitments for the five years. A core part of this strategy is unlocking Africa’s potential by turning African challenges into African solutions, investing in home-grown talent, and building collaborative partnerships across the continent.
Industry Outlook
Agnes sees the professional services landscape undergoing rapid transformation, driven by:
Leveraging data analytics, automation, and digital tools to deliver deeper insights and manage risk.
providing relevant, forward-looking advice that reshapes industries.
Unlocking growth by turning African challenges into African solutions, building home-grown expertise, and investing in people.
She believes in leaving every business better than it was found, delivering sustainable value through technologyenabled insights, robust advisory, and nurturing future leaders.
This philosophy ensures that the firm’s work strengthens industries, raises operational standards, and benefits the communities it serves.
She believes the assurance practice of the future will combine technological excellence with passionate, quality-driven professionals who understand the responsibility they carry.
Women Powering Progress
For Agnes, Women Powering Progress is about creating spaces where women can thrive authentically, lead at every level, and shape the firm’s future.
She champions mentorship, career-long development, and intentional inclusion, ensuring women have a seat, a voice, and influence at the decision-making table.
Advice for Young Leaders
Agnes’ counsel to the next generation is anchored in courage, learning, and excellence:
"Take opportunities when they’re given to you, even when you don’t feel ready. If someone sees something in you, you are more than likely ready for the role."
Brand Purpose – Turning Growth into Shared Progress
When asked what Turning Growth into Shared Progress means to her, Agnes says:
"It means leaving businesses better than we found them. For Africa, it’s about taking global expertise and turning African problems into African solutions, unlocking the continent’s potential. It also means grooming fresh graduates and enabling them to impact the communities they come from."
Creating Client Value
Agnes works with clients to deliver assurance that goes beyond compliance,
combining rigorous technical expertise with forward-looking insight. Her team provides:
- Audit and assurance aligned to evolving IFRS and regulatory standards
- Technology-enabled solutions for real-time risk and performance insights
- Governance and control frameworks that build resilience
- Insights that strengthens business performance and supports sustainable growth
- Her approach ensures every engagement not only meets assurance requirements but also leaves the business better prepared for the future.
Partner with SNG Grant Thornton.
Let’s shape a future where growth uplifts everyone.
Partner with SNG Grant Thornton, Turning Growth into Shared Progress.
Agnes Dire
Chairperson of the Board | Director & National Leader: General Assurance | SNG Grant Thornton