January 9, 2017 - KPMG LLP today unveiled plans to build a state-of-the art learning, development, and innovation facility to further enhance the world-class training capabilities it offers to its partners and professionals. The 55-acre campus will be built in the 14-square-mile community of Lake Nona in the City of Orlando, Florida, with construction scheduled to begin in spring 2017.
"At KPMG, we're passionate about developing our people and creating growth opportunities for them," said Lynne Doughtie, Chairman and CEO, KPMG LLP. "This facility is a significant investment that will ensure our partners and professionals continue to have access to leading-edge learning and development opportunities to enrich themselves, stay connected to our inclusive, innovative culture, and remain equipped to deliver the highest quality in this fast-changing marketplace. Delivering a world-class training experience also is an investment in our ability to attract and retain the best talent."
Consistent with KPMG's focus on anticipating and understanding emerging trends, the facility's Innovation Center will provide an immersive learning experience that will enhance the skills KPMG professionals bring to client situations.
The facility also will feature 800 guest rooms, fitness and outdoor recreational facilities, and multiple food and beverage venues - creating an energetic and exciting forum for learning and innovation within a larger community that focuses on inspiring human performance.
Click here to see highlights of the announcement.
"Our center will be the cornerstone of our learning and development strategy, which will continue to blend in-person training and virtual options," said P. Scott Ozanus, Deputy Chairman and Chief Operating Officer, KPMG LLP. "It will give our partners and professionals the benefits of alternating between classroom and field-like training environments for an experience that is interactive, innovative, and collaborative."
Gensler, the New York-based design and architecture firm, will design the complex according to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards established by the U.S. Green Building Council. KPMG expects to create at least 80 positions to work at the facility and that an additional 250 third-party contract operator positions will be created. KPMG did not disclose terms or estimated costs of the center, which it plans to complete in late 2019. Lake Nona is a master-designed community in Orlando that includes companies and organizations committed to advancing developments in the areas of sports and human performance, health and wellness, education, and technology. Created by Tavistock Development with its parent company, the international private investment organization Tavistock Group, the fast-growing community has attracted business innovators and residents committed to creating an environment that inspires human potential through innovative collaboration.
"As one of the world's most respected and recognized brands, KPMG's arrival further validates our region's ability to compete on a global scale for eminent blue chip companies, and their presence will further establish the vision of Lake Nona as an epicenter for business innovation," said Rasesh Thakkar, Senior Managing Director of Tavistock Group.
"Lake Nona has become an economic engine for our entire region," said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. "KPMG's learning, development and innovation facility will build upon Lake Nona's development success, creating more new jobs for Floridians and bringing a continuous economic
boost to our community."
"Orange County is extremely pleased to join in announcing KPMG's decision to build their new, innovation-driven global training center in Central Florida, and I look forward to bringing this proposal to our Board of County Commissioners for their consideration later this month," said Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs. "This project includes 80 high-wage jobs, as well capital investments of more than $400 million. KPMG executives from across the nation will travel here for extended training, providing us with an excellent opportunity to showcase our world-class community. Their presence in Central Florida signals the strength of our professional service sector, as well as the preparedness of our workforce."
"We believe that Orlando International Airport is a tremendous asset to the regional business community and KPMG's expanded presence significantly enhances further economic growth and business opportunities," says Frank Kruppenbacher, Chairman of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. "The Authority is honored to be part of the team that is bringing a firm with the intellectual capital of KPMG to this highly skilled and diverse market."
