KPMG Australia has appointed John Sams as its new CEO, following a damaging audit leak scandal. Sams, a partner from the commercial advisory and transactions practice group, has been chief financial officer since October 2025 and chief operating officer since June.
Leadership Overhaul
The appointment comes two months after the firm’s former boss departed over the scandal. KPMG has been under intense scrutiny from the Australian government and blue-chip clients since whistleblower accusations that its staff used inside information to win lucrative audit contracts came to light in March.
Sams has a mandate from the board to strengthen the firm’s culture and improve confidence with staff, clients, regulators, and the government. He 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.’
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
