KPMG Canada Appoints First Chief Economist Amid Economic Uncertainty
Event summary
- KPMG Canada has appointed Ali Jaffery as its first Chief Economist, effective April 1, 2026.
- Jaffery will lead KPMG’s Economic Advisory Services practice and is based in Ottawa.
- Prior to KPMG, Jaffery served as Executive Director and Senior Economist at CIBC.
- He previously held roles at the Bank of Canada, Department of Finance, and Qatar National Bank.
The big picture
The creation of a Chief Economist role at KPMG Canada signals a heightened focus on providing economic intelligence to clients amidst growing global economic uncertainty and geopolitical risk. This move suggests a recognition that data-driven insights are increasingly critical for businesses to make informed decisions and maintain a competitive edge. The appointment also reflects a broader trend among professional services firms to expand their advisory offerings and deepen their expertise in key economic areas.
What we're watching
- Client Impact
- The success of Jaffery's role will hinge on KPMG's ability to translate his insights into actionable strategies for clients navigating complex economic conditions, potentially impacting advisory revenue.
- Research Focus
- The specific areas of economic research prioritized by Jaffery (trade, productivity, competitiveness) will signal KPMG’s strategic focus and potentially influence policy discussions.
- Talent Acquisition
- KPMG’s willingness to invest in a Chief Economist role may prompt other professional services firms to follow suit, intensifying competition for top economic talent.
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