Big 4 elects new global chair

KPMG has announced that William Thomas has been elected by KPMG International’s global council as the chairman of KPMG International for a four year team from 1 October 2017.

Mr Thomas, who is based in Canada and has been with KPMG for 28 years, has served as chairman of KPMG’s Americas region since 2014 and has been a member of the global board since 2009.

Mr Thomas will replace John Veihmeyer who is completing his term as chairman and retiring from the firm at the end of September 2017.

“I am extremely proud to announce that Bill Thomas has been elected to succeed me as chairman of KPMG International. Bill brings an exceptional range of skills and experience that will benefit KPMG and the clients our professionals serve,” Mr Veihmeyer said.

“As leader of KPMG’s Americas region and the Canadian firm, Bill has an outstanding leadership record of quality growth, innovation and collaboration. But what distinguishes Bill most are his qualities of integrity, sincerity, passion and personal commitment.”

Mr Thomas said it is a “great honour” to be elected chairman of KPMG International.

“John Veihmeyer has been an exceptional leader and role model, who has strengthened KPMG immensely with his commitment to quality and integrity, and his focus on the culture of our global organization,” Mr Thomas said.

“I intend to build on the foundation John has put in place, and help KPMG’s 190,000 professionals around the world to fulfill their potential and bring their best in meeting the rapidly expanding needs of clients.”