BDO announces new Chief Executive Partner and 20 partner promotions for 1 July 2025
BDO announces new Chief Executive Partner and 20 partner promotions for 1 July 2025
BDO is proud to announce the appointment of David Garvey as the firm’s new Chief Executive Partner (CEP). Mr Garvey will officially take up the CEP position at the end of 2025 and will succeed Mr Tony Schiffmann, a cornerstone of the firm’s leadership for over 25 years. In addition, BDO celebrates 20 individuals advancing to the position of Partner on 1 July 2025, bringing the firm’s total number of partners close to 350.
BDO Australia Limited chairman David Fagan confirmed that Mr Garvey will take up the position of CEP from 1 December 2025. Over the next six months, Mr Garvey will work closely with current CEP Mr Tony Schiffmann and transition from his current role as office managing partner of the firm’s Melbourne office.
“This is an exciting development in the evolution of our firm in Australia,” said Mr Fagan.
“I am proud to announce that Mr David Garvey will take up the position of Chief Executive Partner from 1 December 2025. David’s appointment marks a pivotal chapter in BDO’s journey of growth and transformation. David has a proven track record of strategic leadership, deep sector insight, and a collaborative mindset. He brings a bold vision for BDO in Australia; one that is rooted in people and inclusive culture, powered by innovation, and focused on sustainable impact.
“David has been with the firm since 2012 and will transition from his current role as OMP of our Melbourne office over the next six months. His leadership style is defined by authenticity, agility, and a steadfast commitment to client success. David understands that our strength lies in our people, and he is passionate about continuing Tony Schiffmann’s work to foster a culture where our people thrive, ideas flourish, and partnerships deepen.
Whilst Mr Garvey’s new role will officially take effect from 1 December 2025, Mr Fagan said that the new CEP will be working from a strong foundation.
“Tony Schiffmann, having held leadership roles at BDO for over 25 years, has been instrumental in nurturing the unique people-centric culture for which BDO is well known. His commitment and leadership have positioned BDO for sustained growth over many years. Tony will work closely with David over the next six months and will officially step out of his role as CEP at the end of this year. Mr Schiffmann will remain with the firm and continue his role on BDO’s global board.
“David will build upon the solid foundation set by Tony. David’s vision is clear. He will continue to position BDO as the most trusted professional services firm in Australia; a firm that leads with purpose, embraces digital transformation, and delivers measurable value to its people, clients and communities alike.
“Under David’s leadership, we are confident BDO will continue to grow stronger, more connected, and more future-ready than ever,” said Mr Fagan.
1 July promotions
BDO’s announcement of the CEP coincides with the promotion of 20 individuals to the position of partner from 1 July 2025; this cohort of partner promotions bolsters capability and expertise across key divisions in audit (three), tax (five), business services (four), advisory (five) and shared services (three).
The firm's commitment to nurturing talent and expanding its partner network is evident in these appointments and comes after 13 partners were promoted in January.
Topping the 300 partner milestone in January this year, 2024-25 is marked by consistent growth in partner numbers as BDO also welcomed 29 lateral hires, many of whom were drawn from larger global competitors; a strong indication of BDO's ability to attract top talent.
This increase in partner numbers reflects the continuing strong demand for BDO's services and contributes to the overall growth of the firm.
BDO's current CEP, Tony Schiffmann, attributes the firm’s achievements to its distinctive culture and the dedication of its almost 3,000 employees. Mr Schiffmann emphasises that BDO's culture is a demonstrable competitive advantage in the market, proven by the attraction of high-calibre lateral hires, a substantial increase in headcount, and significant investment in new offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide, as well as the firm’s expanded presence last year into Canberra.
“We remain committed to nurturing the people that we have at BDO and today’s announcement of 20 people moving up to the position of partner demonstrates our support of future leaders by providing tangible career development opportunities,” said Schiffmann.
The firm's unique culture clearly supports the brand promise of IDEAS PEOPLE TRUST and plays a pivotal role in its retention strategy. It also makes BDO an attractive destination for professionals seeking to join its ranks.
As part of its ongoing commitment to developing future leaders, BDO will also announce 28 Director appointments on 1 July. These appointments reinforce the strength of BDO’s talent pool and the firm's dedication to nurturing internal growth.
For more information and media requests, please contact:
Jane Ward
Senior Manager, Media
BDO in Australia
Mobile: 0404 791 606
Email: jane.ward@bdo.com.au