KPMG appoints Bill Thomas as Global Chairman

William B Thomas has been elected Chairman of KPMG International. He will lead the KPMG global network of professional services firms for a four-year term, effective October 1, 2017, succeeding John B Veihmeyer, who is completing his term as Chairman and retiring from the firm at the end of September 2017.

The 49-year-old, who was elected to his new role by KPMG International's Global Council, has served as Chairman of KPMG's American 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.

"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. I'm confident that Bill's authentic leadership will bring tremendous value to KPMG, our people and to clients," said Veihmeyer.

"It is a great honor to be elected Chairman of KPMG International. 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. 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," added Thomas.