KPMG Malaysia welcomes new KPMG International chairman

KUALA LUMPUR: KPMG Malaysia welcomed the announcement of William B Thomas as the new chairman of KPMG International.

Thomas, age 49, will lead the KPMG global network of professional services firms for a fouryear term effective October 1, 2017, succeeding John B Veihmeyer who is completing his term as Chairmac and retiring from the firm at the end of September 2017.

“With Bill Thomas’ strong legacy of 28 years in KPMG, his election as the new global chairman of KPMG International provides the continuity and sustainability of the global initiatives throughout the network.

“KPMG in Malaysia welcomes this exciting news as Thomas is no stranger to Malaysia, having visited Malaysia as part of his strategic agenda towards Asean in November 2016.

“His deep understanding and passion towards the Malaysia market and economic development augurs well for our people, our clients and regulatory bodies,” said KPMG Malaysia’s managing partner Datuk Johan Idris.

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.

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, Bill 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.