In a heartfelt announcement, KPMG has bid farewell to one of its stalwarts, Michael, as he embarks on a well-earned retirement after a remarkable career spanning over four decades. The firm expressed its deep appreciation for Michael’s unwavering dedication and outstanding contributions, not only as a professional but also as a beloved colleague, active community member, and cherished friend.
Michael Yee-Joy retires from KPMG after four decades of service in the Pacific region.
Michael’s legacy as a leader, advisor, and positive influence has left an indelible mark, with an impressive career that spanned 43 years. His journey saw him provide audit, assurance, and advisory services in various locations, including Fiji, Australia, and the Pacific Islands region. His work extended to assisting clients in Samoa, American Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, Kiribati, Tuvalu, and Nauru, across sectors encompassing private, government, civil society, and NGOs.
Crucially, Michael’s mentorship has had a profound impact on many, from current partners to staff who have moved on to diverse roles within KPMG, other KPMG offices in Australia and New Zealand, and various positions in the private sector and government. His guidance, patience, care, and exemplary leadership have helped shape careers and aspirations within the KPMG family.
Michael’s illustrious journey began in 1980 when he joined KPMG Paramatta as a graduate accountant. Over the years, he progressed through the ranks, ultimately becoming a partner. He served as the Managing Partner of KPMG Fiji for nearly two decades, from 2002 to 2019, and later as the Partner In-Charge of the newly established South Pacific Practice, which included PNG and Fiji, from 2021 to 2023.
His influence reached beyond borders, with engagements involving global and national organisations, governments, semi-government entities, and private companies. Michael served as the Audit and Advisory partner for clients in diverse industries, including banking and financial services, manufacturing, retail, telecommunications, and construction. His insights were sought after not only by business leaders but also international organizations, diplomatic missions, and governments across multiple countries, all of whom valued his advice and deep respect for those he interacted with.
While Michael’s retirement marks a significant transition for KPMG, he will remain closely connected as a valued alumnus. As for Michael’s plans in retirement, he intends to take a well-deserved break, spending time with family in Sydney and visiting his daughters in Amsterdam and New York. Additionally, he will explore new directorships after relevant cooling-off periods and increase his involvement in not-for-profit and charitable organisations, harnessing his skills and expertise for community service.
Michael’s deep commitment to the community and the accounting profession is also worthy of recognition, spanning various sub-committees of the Fiji Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Rotary Club of Suva, Chinese community not-for-profit societies/organisations, Catholic church advisory committees/councils, the Fiji Museum board of trustees, and the President of Fiji’s Fiji College of Honour.
