Joelene Pierce named next CEO of KPMG in South Africa

KPMG has appointed Joelene Pierce as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 March 2026. She will succeed Ignatius Sehoole, who is stepping down ahead of his retirement.

Currently Head of Financial Services and a member of the firm’s Policy Board, Pierce has been with KPMG for 26 years, serving as a Partner for the past 19 years. She comes from the firm’s Audit business and brings extensive expertise across key areas of financial services, including retail banking, corporate treasuries, securities trading, and asset-based securitisation structures.

Throughout her career with the global accounting and consulting firm, Pierce has worked with most of KPMG’s top 10 clients in the financial services sector.

Her appointment followed a partner voting process, which allows all KPMG partners in South Africa (around 150) to participate. The vote was triggered as Sehoole prepares to retire after six years as CEO.

“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 and actively champion within the sector,” said Sehoole.

In South Africa – as globally – KPMG is one of the leading professional services firms, employing around 2,200 professionals across offices in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Port Elizabeth. The firm offers audit, accounting, tax, financial advisory, consulting and technology services.

“I am extremely grateful and honoured to take on the challenge of leading KPMG in South Africa,” said Pierce. “My focus will remain on transformation, ethical practice, and embedding critical thinking into our business. This will ensure that, while continuing to strengthen trust in our brand, we also expand the firm’s role in driving social and economic development.”

“With a strong client base across multiple sectors, my priority will be to build on that foundation while continuing to invest in our people and culture.”

Wiseman Nkuhlu, Chairman of KPMG in South Africa, added: “We wish Ignatius all the best and thank him for his unwavering commitment to the KPMG brand over the past six years. His contribution has been exceptional – he has led the business with integrity, transparency, and diligence, underpinned by a strong commitment to transformation and market excellence.”