Joelene Pierce set to lead the firm into a new era as the first female CEO, with a vision focused on trust, innovation, and ethical governance.
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KPMG South Africa has made a significant leadership change, announcing the appointment of Joelene Pierce as the new Chief Executive Officer, set to take effect in March next year.
This decision comes as the firm prepares for the retirement of its current CEO, Ignatius Sehoole, who has dedicated six years to leading the organisation. The announcement follows a vote by the partners in July, underlining the trust and confidence placed in Pierce's capacity to helm the firm during a transformative period.
Pierce, who currently acts as the Head of Financial Services within the organisation, brings a wealth of experience garnered over her 26-year career at KPMG, including 19 years in partnership roles.
Her extensive knowledge spans crucial areas of financial services, such as retail banking, corporate treasuries, and securities trading, allowing her to engage effectively with many of the firm’s top-tier clients.
In reflecting on her forthcoming role, Pierce said, “I am extremely grateful and honoured to take on this new role and build on the strong foundations created during Ignatius’ tenure.” She emphasised her dedication to transformation and ethical practice, promising to embed critical thinking within the firm’s culture, and to bolster KPMG’s contribution to social and economic development.
Pierce’s formal transition into the CEO role will take place after a meticulous handover process, ensuring that clients, staff, and stakeholders are well supported during this change. Sehoole and Pierce will collaborate closely over the next few months to facilitate a smooth succession.
Addressing the transition, Ignatius Sehoole expressed his confidence in Pierce's abilities, stating, “It is an honour to hand over to not only a highly skilled, responsible leader, but one whose career has been underpinned by driving the core principles which we, as a business, are passionate about.”
He highlighted the importance of her skills, not just in technical realms but also in fostering connections with stakeholders and maintaining the firm's commitment to ethical governance and public trust.
“We wish Ignatius all the best and would like to thank him for his unwavering commitment to the KPMG brand over the last six years,” said Prof Nkuhlu, Chairman of KPMG South Africa.
He lauded Sehoole's exceptional contributions, reinforcing the company’s values of ethics, transparency, and dedication to transformation.