By Dipo Olowookere
A 49-year-old Canadian named Mr Bill Thomas has been elected as Chairman of KPMG International. He succeeds 62-year-old Mr John Veihmeyer, who is completing his term as Chairman and retiring from the firm, at the end of September 2017.
Mr Thomas is set to take over the position effective October 1, 2017 and will lead the KPMG global network of professional services firms for a 4-year term.
Mr Thomas, who was elected to his new role by KPMG International’s Global Council, has served as Chairman of KPMG’s Americas region since 2014 and has been a member of the Global Board since 2009.
He has been a leader in defining KPMG’s global strategy and a champion in promoting an inclusive and high-performing culture throughout the KPMG network.
Mr Thomas was CEO and Senior Partner of KPMG in Canada from 2009 to 2016, leading the firm in achieving strong growth in the market, and making strategic investments that contributed to expanding the firm’s capabilities.
In his 28 years with KPMG, he has also held a number of leadership roles in the Canadian firm and within KPMG International, and has served as an audit partner for prominent clients in a variety of industries.
Speaking on the development, Mr John Veihmeyer said, “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. 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. I‘m confident that Bill’s authentic leadership will bring tremendous value to KPMG, our people and to clients.”
Commenting on his election, Mr Thomas said, “It is a great honour to be elected Chairman of KPMG International.
“Mr 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.
“I intend to build on the foundation John has put in place, and help KPMG’s 190,000 professionals around the world to fulfil their potential and bring their best in meeting the rapidly expanding needs of clients. I’m convinced the next few years will be among the most dynamic our profession has ever seen, and I’m excited about the opportunities that are in front of KPMG.”
Modupe Gbadeyanka 
Aduragbemi Omiyale