KPMG Australia’s HR chief Dorothy Hisgrove is stepping down, adding to a wave of senior departures at the consulting firm amid fallout from its whistleblower scandal, according to media reports.
Hisgrove, national managing partner for people and inclusion, plans to retire from the partnership in early 2027. KPMG has begun the search for her successor.
“Dorothy has always planned to retire from the partnership in early 2027. Dorothy is supporting us with this process and will remain in her role until we appoint a successor,” CEO John Sams said, as quoted by The Sydney Morning Herald.
HR function faces scrutiny
Hisgrove’s exit comes as KPMG’s handling of whistleblower claims faces scrutiny, according to the Australian Financial Review.
The whistleblower alleged bullying and victimisation after raising concerns over the misuse of client data.
The AFR reported that Hisgrove backed fines against three partners found to have misused client data. However, questions remain over the handling of an independent investigation into the whistleblower’s claims.
General counsel also leaves
KPMG Australia’s general counsel Louise Capon is also leaving her role and has stepped down from the executive committee.
“I have asked Louise to remain with us for a period to ensure the smooth handover of the important work she is doing on multiple fronts and support the orderly transition of her responsibilities. Louise will step down from the [executive committee] immediately,” Sams said.
Capon told her team she remained proud of their work despite the firm’s challenges.
“In the face of the current challenges, we play such an important role and you should feel proud of the contribution we make every day. This is not farewell,” she said.
More senior exits
The latest departures follow exits by former CEO Andrew Yates, chairman Martin Sheppard and audit partners Kim Lawry, Paul Rogers and Julian McPherson.
Chief risk officer Paul Low has also stepped down but will remain with KPMG.
The leadership changes come as the firm prepares for further public hearings linked to the whistleblower scandal.