KPMG appoints new chief executive officer 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.

- ASHLEY LECHMAN

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.