KPMG LLP has announced the election of Timothy J. Walsh as its next U.S. Chair and Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2025. Walsh, a 33-year veteran of the firm, will succeed Paul Knopp, who has led KPMG since 2020. Atif Zaim, currently the U.S. Consulting Leader, will assume the role of Deputy Chair, replacing Laura Newinski.
Walsh’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for KPMG as it navigates rapid technological advancements and evolving client needs. In his current role as National Managing Partner for U.S. Audit Operations, Walsh has been instrumental in driving operational excellence and innovation within the firm’s audit practice. His extensive experience includes serving large, multinational clients across various industries, with a focus on publicly listed companies.
“We are entering an unprecedented era of transformation driven by breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and automation,” Walsh stated. “Winning companies are making the right strategic moves on talent, technology, and growth. Insights that disrupt institutional inertia, innovation that creates new markets, and leaders that build trust with employees, customers, and investors will be the difference makers.”
Under Knopp and Newinski’s leadership, KPMG experienced significant growth, with revenues increasing from $9.57 billion in 2020 to $12.6 billion in 2024. The firm also made substantial investments in technology and innovation, including a $2 billion global investment in AI and cloud technologies in partnership with Microsoft. These initiatives have positioned KPMG to better serve clients in an increasingly digital landscape.
Zaim, who joined KPMG in 1994, has played a key role in shaping the firm’s advisory strategy and investment programs. As Deputy Chair, he will focus on engaging with C-suite executives to drive innovation and foster a high-performance culture within the firm. “KPMG will continue to offer clients access to the best people and services, and the new and necessary solutions to accelerate transformation,” Zaim said.
The leadership transition also coincides with KPMG’s recent expansion into legal services through the launch of KPMG Law US, marking the first time a Big Four firm has established a law firm in the United States. This move reflects KPMG’s commitment to providing comprehensive professional services to its clients.
Walsh’s vision for KPMG emphasizes agility, strategic growth, and accountability. He aims to prioritize access to opportunity, lifelong learning, and fostering authentic connections among employees. “Our driving priority is ensuring that we’re ready for that future — more agile, more strategic, and more accountable than ever before,” Walsh noted.
As KPMG embarks on this new chapter, the firm is poised to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements and changing market dynamics. With Walsh and Zaim at the helm, KPMG is set to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation in the professional services industry.
