Interview with KPMG's Deputy Chair and US Managing Principal, Atif Zaim, split into two sessions
Atif Zaim, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience at KPMG, has ascended to the prominent position of Deputy Chair and U.S. Managing Principal. In this role, Zaim leads KPMG’s U.S. operations and plays a pivotal part in shaping the firm's strategic direction.
With 36,000 employees under his watch in the U.S., Zaim is responsible for guiding partners and clients while overseeing the firm's advisory business and operational functions. This strategic positioning makes him a key figure in driving KPMG's competitiveness and innovation within the Big Four accounting landscape.
In an exclusive interview, Zaim reflects on his journey at KPMG and his new role as the incoming Deputy Chair. He emphasises the importance of adapting to marketplace changes, private equity’s increasing influence, and technology integration at KPMG.
Balancing Growth and Talent Management
Zaim's leadership at KPMG is marked by a focus on balancing growth ambitions with talent management. He believes that investing in people is crucial for the firm's success, especially in a fast-changing environment.
The Evolving Nature of Leadership
Zaim also discusses the evolving nature of leadership in the interview. He shares his insights on motivating teams during pushback and the importance of clear communication with family, both essential skills in his leadership arsenal.
Clarity of Purpose
Clarity of purpose is another topic Zaim addresses in the interview. He emphasises the need for leaders to communicate a clear vision and strategy to their teams, especially in a time when public accounting firms, including KPMG, are under pressure to deliver more value.
The 150-hour CPA Rule
Zaim offers his perspective on the 150-hour CPA rule, a controversial regulation that has been a subject of debate in the accounting industry. He shares his thoughts on how the rule can be adapted to meet the needs of both the industry and the students pursuing a career in accounting.
Serving Websites and C-suites
Lastly, Zaim shares his insights on serving websites and C-suites in a fast-changing environment. He discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with this role and how KPMG is responding to these changes.
This two-part series interview on our website.com provides a unique insight into the mind of one of the most influential figures in the accounting industry. As KPMG continues to navigate the complex world of public accounting, Atif Zaim's leadership will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping its future.
- In his role as Deputy Chair and U.S. Managing Principal at KPMG, Atif Zaim leads a team of 36,000 employees, overseeing the firm's advisory business and operational functions, focusing on balancing growth ambitions with talent management.
- During an exclusive interview, Atif Zaim shared his insights on the evolving nature of leadership, emphasising the importance of motivating teams during pushback, clear communication, and adapting to marketplace changes, such as private equity’s increasing influence and technology integration.
