KPMG Australia has named John Sams as its new CEO, with the appointment effective immediately.
The decision was finalised after a panel reviewed internal candidates, executives from KPMG’s global network and external applicants before finalising the decision.
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The new CEO takes over the helm after former chief Andrew Yates resigned in May over mishandled whistleblower claims.
KPMG independent chairman Michael Ebeid, who was part of the selection panel, said: “The Board believes that John has the strong attributes required to be the firm’s successful leader – including agility, courage and integrity.
“John has a clear mandate from the Board: to strengthen leadership and culture, improve confidence with our people, clients, regulators, government and the Parliament, and focus KPMG on the areas where it can make the greatest contribution to our clients, people and stakeholders.”
Sams has been KPMG Australia’s chief financial officer (CFO) since October 2025 and, from June 2026, also held the role of chief operating officer (COO).
He has been a partner at the company for more than ten years.
Sams began his career at KPMG UK before moving to Australia, where he developed extensive experience advising on major infrastructure projects, providing commercial and financial guidance.
He has more than 20 years of experience spanning tax, corporate finance and infrastructure advisory.
Sams said: “I do not underestimate the task ahead but commit to our clients and people that I am prepared to be courageous, take the tough decisions and lead the changes we need to set us on the right path.
“The firm fell short of the standards rightly expected of us, and the accountability for these failures will continue to be implemented. We have serious work to do on our culture, our leadership and our governance and it will take resolve and endurance.
“Despite everything we have faced so far, I am optimistic about the future, otherwise I would never have taken on this role. While the challenges are real, so too are the strengths of this firm and I am equally clear about the opportunities to strengthen KPMG for the future.”
