Key Influencer – Phillip Peters - Incoming Auditor General

Source: LinkedIn

Phillip Peters has been recommended as Alberta’s next Auditor General following a vote by a legislative committee, with a final appointment pending cabinet approval. If confirmed, he will assume leadership of the Office of the Auditor General at a time of heightened scrutiny over government spending and oversight, including an ongoing investigation into high-profile health-care contracting.

Peters currently serves as Legislative Audit and General Counsel and Ethics Officer within the Office of the Auditor General, where he has held senior responsibility for legal, ethical, and governance matters since 2017. His tenure within the office provides continuity at a time of transition, while also positioning him as a central figure in shaping how the office approaches complex and politically sensitive audits.

Prior to joining the Auditor General’s office, Peters spent nearly a decade with Alberta Justice and Solicitor General as Tax Counsel, advising on complex tax and regulatory matters. His background also includes experience in private practice with Fraser Milner Casgrain LLP, as well as earlier roles with the Canada Revenue Agency and KPMG.

Peters holds extensive professional credentials, including King’s Counsel designation, Chartered Professional Accountant (FCPA, FCA), and advanced legal training in tax law. His cross-disciplinary background in law and accounting positions him well to oversee audits across government ministries, agencies, and regulated funds, particularly in areas involving complex financial structures and procurement processes.

If appointed, Peters will immediately take on the continuation of a high-profile investigation into allegations surrounding multimillion-dollar health contracts, an issue that has drawn political attention and ongoing review. His appointment process has also attracted scrutiny from NDP MLAs, highlighting the broader political context in which the Auditor General’s office will be operating.