KPMG LLP, one of the leading U.S. audit, tax, and advisory firms, has announced the appointment of Timothy J. Walsh as its new Chair and Chief Executive Officer, and Atif Zaim as Deputy Chair. Their five-year terms commenced on July 1, 2025, marking a significant leadership transition aimed at steering the firm through a rapidly evolving business landscape.
Walsh and Zaim succeed Paul Knopp and Laura Newinski, who served as Chair and CEO, and Deputy Chair and COO, respectively, since 2020. Under their leadership, KPMG experienced substantial growth, with revenues increasing from $9.57 billion in 2020 to $12.6 billion in 2024. The firm also achieved its lowest audit deficiency rate since 2009, reflecting a strong commitment to quality and innovation.
In a statement, Knopp expressed confidence in the new leadership, stating, “Tim Walsh and Atif Zaim’s vision, integrity, strategic acumen, and dedication to our clients will propel us forward as we compete and win in the market.”
Timothy J. Walsh brings over 33 years of experience within KPMG to his new role. He previously served as the National Managing Partner for U.S. Audit Operations, where he was instrumental in driving operational excellence and innovation. His career includes significant roles such as New York Metro Audit Partner-in-Charge and Lead Partner-in-Charge of the Venture Capital Practice in New York.
Walsh emphasized the importance of embracing technological advancements, stating, “We are entering an unprecedented era of transformation driven by breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and automation. Winning companies are making the right strategic moves on talent, technology, and growth.”
He also highlighted the firm’s commitment to investing in technology, culture, and quality to better serve clients, adding, “KPMG is ready to help our clients win. Atif and I are focused on investments that put us in the best position to bring the full power of our partnership and global network to solve the unique challenges our clients face.”
Atif Zaim, now serving as Deputy Chair, has been with KPMG since 1994. He previously led the U.S. Consulting Practice and served as the National Managing Principal of the Advisory Practice. Zaim has played a pivotal role in shaping the firm’s advisory strategy, managing investment programs, and overseeing client and engagement risk.
Zaim expressed his commitment to innovation and client service, stating, “We will be bold and agile in this moment of change. KPMG will continue to offer clients access to the best people and services, and the new and necessary solutions to accelerate transformation.”
Under the new leadership, KPMG is poised to navigate the complexities of a business environment increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence and automation. The firm has already made significant investments in AI, including a $2 billion global partnership with Microsoft in 2023, aimed at enhancing its capabilities in AI and cloud services.
Walsh and Zaim have emphasized the importance of leveraging these technological advancements to provide innovative solutions to clients. They aim to foster a high-performance culture that supports employees while delivering exceptional client experiences.
KPMG’s leadership transition also underscores a continued commitment to employee well-being and organizational culture. Initiatives such as firm-wide shutdowns, “Jumpstart Fridays,” and programs to monitor and address burnout indicators have been implemented to enhance work-life balance and support employee health.
Walsh shared his personal journey, reflecting on the opportunities provided by the firm, stating, “My own journey to this moment is quite remarkable. My grandfather was a coal miner, and my grandmother worked as a seamstress. Despite their humble beginnings, they managed to send their daughter—my mother—to college. Just two generations later, the amazing opportunities provided by accounting and KPMG have brought me to where I am today.”
As KPMG embarks on this new chapter, the firm is focused on sustaining its momentum in delivering innovative solutions and exceptional client service. The leadership of Walsh and Zaim is expected to guide the firm through the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements and evolving client needs.
