KPMG appoints new CEO for South Africa to lead the business in 2026 and beyond

KPMG in South Africa announced on Monday, the appointment of Joelene Pierce as the new CEO of the firm in South Africa, effective 1 March 2026.

The appointment came as a result of current CEO Ignatius Sehoole’s imminent retirement, which will take place on 1 March 2026.

Partners of the firm voted for the appointment on 31 July 2025, signaling not only the strength of expertise that Pierce brings to the firm, but also that the newly elected CEO offers unparalleled expertise in both leading the business, as well as understanding the unique and dynamic nature of the client and economic environment in which it operates.

Pierce currently serves as the Head of Financial Services in South Africa and is a member of the KPMG South Africa Policy Board.

Having been with the firm for the past 26 years, undertaking a Partner role for 19 of those, she brings extensive expertise in key areas of financial services including: retail banking, corporate treasuries, securities trading and asset-based securitisation structures and has worked with most of the firm’s top 10 clients.

Ignatius Sehoole, current CEO of KPMG South Africa and Chairman of KPMG Africa, said, “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 drive within the sector.”

He added, “However, it is not just the technical skills and know-how that sets CEOs apart; it is the ability to truly connect with various stakeholders and to ensure that everyone – both internally and externally - remains committed to the firm’s key values and principles. Her appointment ensures that a sound focus on innovative and next generation thinking will be prioritised alongside the key focus areas of ethical governance, integrity and holding the firm accountable to maintain public trust. This is essential to build the firm of the future for both our clients and for our people.”

Pierce, the impending CEO of KPMG South Africa, said, “I am extremely grateful and honoured to take on this new role and build on the strong foundations created during Ignatius’ tenure. I am committed to remaining focused on transformation and ethical practice, as well as embedding critical thinking into the business. This will ensure that, in addition to continuing the strong focus on instilling trust in the brand, we continue to expand the firm’s role in social and economic development. With a strong client base across different sectors, building on this will be a priority, along with continued development for our people and culture.”

Sehoole will step down as CEO on 1 March 2026, as he heads into retirement.

Sehoole and Pierce will undertake a focused handover over the next few months, to ensure a smooth transition into her role and to continue providing unwavering support and high-quality service to the business, clients and employees.

“We wish Ignatius all the best and would like to thank him for the unwavering commitment to the KPMG brand over the last six years. His contribution has been exceptional, and he has led this business with the highest level of ethics, transparency and diligence, with a solid commitment to transformation and market excellence,” Prof Nkuhlu, Chairman of KPMG South Africa, said. 

BUSINESS REPORT