EY Canada names Alycia Calvert first female CEO of a Canadian Big Four accounting firm

TORONTO, May 14, 2026 – Alycia Calvert, the incoming chair and chief executive officer of Ernst and Young LLP, will become the first female CEO of a Big Four accounting firm in Canada. Calvert, whose appointment is effective July 1, 2024, replaces current chair and CEO Jad Shimaly as he transitions to EY global managing partner – client service. 

“Alycia is the embodiment of visionary leadership and unwavering commitment, consistently forging paths of transformative change for both our people and clients,” Shimaly told Canadian Accountant by email. 

“Alycia’s outstanding career has led her to a major milestone — becoming the first woman CEO of a Canadian Big Four firm. This is not just a personal achievement but a monumental occasion for the profession at large. We’re thrilled to celebrate this achievement and the inspiring legacy that Alycia and the team are sure to build,” Shimaly added. 

Calvert has been with EY for more than 25 years and a member of the EY Canada executive committee for ten years, most recently as the chief operating officer, where she was responsible for achieving long-term value and sustainable growth for the Canadian business across service lines, functions and geographies. Previously, Calvert served as managing partner for markets and accounts, as well as Managing Partner for the Tax practice. In 2018, she was recognized as a Fellow by CPA Ontario. 

“The work EY does to ignite positive change, address complex issues, and advance social and economic growth in Canada and beyond is inspiring,” said Calvert in a press release. “I’m honoured to have the opportunity to advance our purpose and create a lasting impact for our people, clients and communities.” 

A spokesperson noted that EY Canada was proud to follow in the footsteps of EY Global in naming the first woman CEO of a Canadian Big 4 firm. Calvert will work with Julie Boland, US Chair and Americas managing partner, and Janet Truncale, Global Chair & CEO. 

“Alycia is a visionary with deep expertise on the risks and opportunities shaping the business agenda of Canada’s corporate sector,” shares Shimaly. “Her leadership and influence will deliver tremendous value for our people and clients, delivering innovative solutions that address today’s evolving issues.” 

Truncale names Shimaly to new global management team

Truncale is set to succeed retiring EY Global head Carmine Di Sibio in July. Truncale appointed Shimaly to a new four-person team of global managing partners in March. As the global managing partner – client service, Shimaly will focus on quality, growth and go-to-market across all four EY service lines, ensuring consistency of delivery and teaming across the organization. 

Shimaly began his EY career in Cleveland in 2000, relocated to Toronto in 2001 and made partner in 2007. He served as managing partner of the Canadian consulting practice and a member of the Canadian executive committee before becoming chair and CEO in 2018. 

Through his tenure as EY Canada chair and CEO, Shimaly has overseen the successful implementation of numerous initiates that have helped the firm achieve year-over-year growth. Said Shimaly, “I’m excited to continue on this journey — while bringing more Canada to the global stage.” 

By Canadian Accountant with files from EY Canada. Alycia Calvert photo courtesy EY Canada.