KPMG Canada appoints Ali Jaffery as Chief Economist

KPMG Canada has named Ali Jaffery as the firm’s first Chief Economist effective April 1, 2026. Mr. Jaffery will be an Ottawa-based partner leading the firm’s Economic Advisory Services practice, developing and executing economic research programs on key national issues such as trade, productivity and competitiveness.

“Canada is at a pivotal moment as it works to build a more resilient economy. Appointing Ali Jaffery as Chief Economist strengthens KPMG’s ability to help Canadian organizations understand how the economy is shifting, what it means for them, and how to proactively respond with confidence in an increasingly complex environment,” says Benjie Thomas, CEO and Senior Partner of KPMG Canada.

Tim Prince, Canadian Managing Partner for Clients and Markets adds, “As Chief Economist, Ali Jaffery will work across our firm to embed economic insight into client solutions – giving leaders the foresight they need to make informed decisions grounded in economic data.”

His career also includes roles in the Department of Finance and Treasury Board Secretariat and overseas at Qatar National Bank, one of the largest private banks in the Middle East.

“Having worked across government, central banking and capital markets, I’ve seen how quickly economic conditions and policy responses can change – and how important clear, practical insight is in moments of uncertainty,” said Mr. Jaffery.

“KPMG Canada has an established track record as a trusted advisor to Canadian organizations, and I’m looking forward to working with teams across the country to help clients cut through noise, manage geopolitical and economic disruption, and make decisions that strengthen their productivity, resilience and competitiveness,” he adds.

Mr. Jaffery holds a master’s degree in economics from the University of Toronto, a master’s in public administration from Queen’s University, and an honours degree in economics and mathematics from McMaster University.