KPMG Australia has appointed John Sams as chief executive with immediate effect as the firm moves to address the fallout from a whistleblower scandal that implicated some senior executives in accessing confidential client information. Sams, drawn from tax, corporate finance, and infrastructure advisory, will lead efforts to restore trust while the firm plans to cut hundreds of jobs and implement governance and culture reforms. The board, led by independent chairman Michael Ebeid AM, says Sams has the attributes to guide the firm through a difficult period and to decisively deliver an action plan announced earlier to strengthen leadership and accountability. Reports indicate additional measures include significant cost management steps, such as potential partner pay reductions for 2025–26, and a broader push to stabilize the business amid ongoing leakage-related scrutiny. Sams has previously served as CFO and COO and is praised for his experience and commitment to courageous decision-making as KPMG seeks to rebuild confidence with clients, regulators, and stakeholders. The announcements reflect a coordinated effort across KPMG Australia and the wider network to restore governance and integrity after the audit leaks scandal.