Accounting Voices
Hosted by Rob Brown, Accounting Voices interprets the forces shaping the accounting profession for managing partners, firm owners, and senior operators. It focuses on sense-making, judgment, and unspoken tensions through in-depth panel conversations and solo analysis. The podcast is designed for senior decision makers, emphasizing authority, clarity, and relevance over reach or noise. It also supports private discussions with firms, networks, and associations using the same panel-led format.
Episodes
AI Reality in Firms: Richard Lynch | MP: Sikich
Accounting Voices is a senior leadership platform hosted by Rob Brown that interprets the forces reshaping accounting firms across North America and beyond.This "AI Reality Inside Firms" series brings together influential accounting leaders to answer the same five structured questions about how AI is actually landing inside firms.No hype. No vendor narratives. Just honest leadership perspective fr
AI Reality in Firms: Randy Johnston| K2 Enterprises
Accounting Voices is a senior leadership platform hosted by Rob Brown that interprets the forces reshaping accounting firms across North America and beyond.This "AI Reality Inside Firms" series brings together influential accounting leaders to answer the same five structured questions about how AI is actually landing inside firms.No hype. No vendor narratives. Just honest leadership perspective fr
AI Reality in Firms: Chelsea Summers|IPA
Accounting Voices is a senior leadership platform hosted by Rob Brown that interprets the forces reshaping accounting firms across North America and beyond.This "AI Reality Inside Firms" series brings together influential accounting leaders to answer the same five structured questions about how AI is actually landing inside firms.No hype. No vendor narratives. Just honest leadership perspective fr
AI Reality in Firms: Richard Kopelman|CEO: Aprio
Accounting Voices is a senior leadership platform hosted by Rob Brown that interprets the forces reshaping accounting firms across North America and beyond.This "AI Reality Inside Firms" series brings together influential accounting leaders to answer the same five structured questions about how AI is actually landing inside firms.No hype. No vendor narratives. Just honest leadership perspective fr
AI Reality in Firms: Panel - The Tech Perspective
This episode is a deliberate break from the format.Before interviewing senior accounting firm leaders, Rob Brown brings together five companies working at the centre of AI adoption inside firms.They are building the tools, working with leadership teams and seeing how AI is being applied in practice.The goal is not to explain AI. It is to test assumptions.Across the discussion, the panel explores:▸
AI in Accounting: What Will Define the Top Firms in 2027?
Five episodes. Five questions. One series.We started with the frame: 98% of firms are using AI, only 21% have a documented strategy, and that gap is where firms either differentiate or drift. We asked where AI is genuinely reshaping firm direction and what separates real transformation from surface adoption. We named four mistakes firms keep making and the strategic cost of each one. We identified
Four AI Mistakes Accounting Firm Leaders Keep Making
This episode addresses Question 4 of the five-question series: where is AI creating the greatest internal tension inside firms? The previous episodes established what genuine reshaping looks like, what firms are getting wrong, and which decisions matter most. This episode names what happens when those forces land inside a firm with real people, real power dynamics and real stakes. Three tensions a
The AI Decisions That Matter Most for Accounting Leaders
In this episode of Accounting Voices, host Rob Brown explores one of the most critical questions facing firm leaders today: how AI is changing not just technology choices, but the structural decisions that determine whether firms move ahead or fall behind.While 98% of accounting firms are already using AI, only 21% have a documented strategy. That gap is where competitive advantage is being create
Where Accounting Firms Are Still Going Wrong With AI
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FgS2rJttm7I Thank you to our Season Partners for making this series possible.Fieldguide is the AI-native platform for audit and advisory enabling human and AI collaboration to scale capacity, improve quality and transform how firms operate. fieldguide.ioKarbon is the global leader in AI-powered practice management software for accounting firms. Their
Is AI Changing Your Firm Or Just Speeding Things Up?
AI is everywhere in accounting right now. Vendors claim transformation. Conferences promise disruption. Firms report adoption. But how much of this is real strategic change and how much is just efficiency improvement dressed up as transformation? In this episode, Rob Brown explores a critical leadership question: Where is AI genuinely reshaping accounting firm direction? This episode separates tru
AI Reality in Accounting: Let's Ask the Hard Questions
In this episode, we explore what’s actually happening inside firms right now as artificial intelligence begins to change strategy, talent models, partnerships, operating structures, and decision-making at every level. While nearly 98% of accounting firms are already using AI in some form, only about 1 in 5 have a documented AI strategy. That gap is where the biggest risks and opportunities exist.
Choose Wisely - Revenue Today or Value for Tomorrow?
There’s a deeper tension shaping the future of accounting firms and most leaders aren’t talking about it openly.In this episode of the Accounting Voices Podcast, Rob Brown dives into one of the most critical strategic questions facing firm leaders today:👉 Are you building short-term partner income… or long-term enterprise value?As AI, private equity, and industry consolidation reshape the professi
How Accounting Firm Ownership Models Are Changing
There’s a deeper tension shaping the future of accounting firms and most leaders aren’t talking about it openly.In this episode of the Accounting Voices Podcast, Rob Brown dives into one of the most critical strategic questions facing firm leaders today:👉 Are you building short-term partner income… or long-term enterprise value?As AI, private equity, and industry consolidation reshape the professi
Soft Skills Dying? Leadership Under Pressure from AI
This is Part 3 of the Leadership Under Pressure series on Accounting Voices.For more than a decade the accounting profession has repeated the same message. Advisory services represent the future.But AI and automation are now forcing a deeper questionIs advisory truly embedded in accounting firm operating models or is it still aspirational.In this episode Rob explores:1. Why advisory is not simply
AI & the Disappearing Path to Accounting Partnership
AI transforming accounting firms… or quietly breaking their leadership pipeline?In this first episode of a 5-part leadership series, Rob Brown explores a critical issue facing the profession:AI is not just improving productivity in accounting firms. It is stress-testing leadership models.If AI removes the grind, what replaces the apprenticeship? Drawing insights from conversations on the Inside Pu
What Accounting Leaders Are 100% Certain About in 2026
In this episode of Accounting Voices, Rob Brown discusses key predictions for the accounting profession in 2026 based on insights from 48 industry leaders. The conversation covers themes of automation, revenue shifts from compliance to advisory, the integration of AI in accounting practices, talent sustainability, and the ongoing trend of consolidation within the industry. The episode emphasizes t
The New Skills Accounting Leaders Must Master In 2026
In this episode of Accounting Voices, Rob Brown discusses the evolving landscape of leadership in the accounting profession. He emphasizes that technical excellence is no longer sufficient for leaders, who must now embrace emotional literacy, adaptability, and strategic thinking to navigate the complexities of modern business. The conversation highlights the importance of trustworthiness, effectiv
The Strategic Mirror Facing Accounting Firms IN 2026
In this episode of Accounting Voices, we continue our Reflections 2025 series with a different kind of question:What moment actually changed how leaders think about the accounting profession?Across 48 conversations, a clear pattern emerged.2025 became the year the profession was forced to look in the mirror — and many leaders didn’t like what they saw.This episode explores the assumptions that qui
Accounting's Execution Failures on AI, Talent & Advisory
In this episode of Accounting Voices, Rob Brown shares the most honest reflections yet from 48 industry leaders, partners, and practitioners. After asking one tough question, “What disappointed you in 2025?”, a clear pattern emerged.The problem wasn’t a lack of technology.It wasn’t AI.And it wasn’t ambition.It was execution.From shiny new tools layered onto broken processes, to decision paralysis,
48 Experts Share the Biggest Accounting Shifts of 2025
In this powerful episode of Accounting Voices, Rob Brown reveals the findings from an ambitious project: interviewing 48 senior leaders across the accounting profession and asking them the same five questions about the year that changed everything.This episode focuses on Question 1: What defined 2025? And the answer is uncomfortable but critical: 2025 was not a year of progress. It was a year of s
How Accounting’s 2026 Divide Affects You & Your Firm
In this episode, Rob Brown discusses the evolving landscape of accounting firms, emphasizing the importance of understanding the type of firm one wants to become amidst rapid changes driven by technology and market dynamics. He highlights five key signals affecting leadership and firm relevance, including the discomfort surrounding AI, the challenges of the partnership model, and the pressures fac
There Are Only 4 Paths for Accounting Firms in 2026
In this episode of Accounting Voices, Rob Brown discusses the critical choices accounting firms must make as they navigate the evolving landscape of the profession. He emphasizes the importance of making intentional decisions regarding automation, client relationships, and specialization, highlighting the trade-offs that come with each choice. The conversation explores the four dominant strategic
How the Accounting Profession Is Splitting in 2026
2026 is not a reset year for accounting firms.It is a sorting year.In this episode of Accounting Voices, Rob Brown explains why the accounting profession is splitting and why firms will be forced to choose a direction.Four fault lines are reshaping the profession:1. How firms adopt AI2. How client expectations are changing3. Whether the next generation wants ownership4. Which business models survi
If 2025 Felt Heavy, It’s Because It Mattered
In this episode, Rob Brown reflects on the significant changes and challenges faced in the accounting and finance sectors over the past year. He discusses the impact of private equity, AI, and shifting workplace dynamics on professionals' mental health and job satisfaction. Rob emphasizes the importance of recognizing these changes, reassessing career paths, and building personal brands to ensure
When Change Is Announced Inside Your Accounting Firm
In the final part of this mini series Rob Brown explains how professionals and leaders should act when firm change is officially announced. From mergers to ownership shifts this episode shows why coping with uncertainty is now a career defining skill.Key takeawaysChange tests behaviourClarity builds trustVisibility creates securityAdaptation wins careersYou can watch this on YouTube here: https://
Signals Your Accounting career Is About To Shift
Accounting firms send signals long before announcing mergers restructures leadership changes or new ownership. In this episode Rob Brown explains the early warning signs that professionals notice first and how to read them so you stay informed relevant and secure during uncertainty.KEY TAKEAWAYS Leaders change language before they change structure Partner behaviour reveals direction Hiring patt
Why Accounting Firms & Careers Feel Unstable Right Now
Accounting firms everywhere are changing. Private equity takeovers. Mergers. Leadership shifts. Advisory growth. Partner exits. New models. Staff feel unstable confused and worried. In this episode Rob Brown explains why firms feel unpredictable right now and what you can do to stay relevant visible and secure during this major transition.KEY TAKEAWAYS Firms are changing for real structural reaso
Dilemma - "Should I Stay or Leave Public Accounting?"
Public accounting is intense and many professionals are questioning whether they should stay. In this episode Rob Brown breaks down the real reasons people want to leave public accounting and the key differences between the profession and the environment. You will learn how to assess burnout learning and the future of your career. This episode gives you a clear framework for deciding whether to st
Is a Career in Accounting Still Worth It These Days?
In this pivotal episode Rob Brown explains the truth about the future of accounting.From AI disruption to collapsing entry level pathways to the rise of visibility and influence, this episode is a wake up call for accountants who want to stay relevant. Learn how to build fluency, clarity and credibility in a changing profession.Key Takeaways* Visibility is the new career advantage* AI replaces tas
Career Insurance - What AI Cannot Do in Accounting
In the final episode of the Big Four AI mini-series, Rob Brown explains how to stay credible and competitive as AI reshapes accounting. Learn why visibility is credibility, how to become the translator between humans and machines, and how to build fluency that turns fear into confidence.Key TakeawaysReputation now comes from visibility and proof of thinking.You don’t need to code to stay relevant
AI Without the Big Budget - Lessons from the Big Four
In this episode of Accounting Voices, Rob Brown breaks down what the Big Four are doing with AI and how smaller firms can use those ideas to stay credible and competitive. Learn how to publish an AI policy, choose the right use cases, train for judgment and build trust through visibility.Key Takeaways - Smaller firms can borrow Big Four discipline without their budgets.Transparency and training bu
The Big Four AI Race: Who Is Winning and Why It Matters
AI has moved from pilots to playbooks. In this episode Rob Brown breaks down the Big Four AI race and turns it into a practical plan for firms of any size. Learn where automation is helping, where human judgment must stay in charge, and how to build a simple policy clients will trust. You will leave with four moves to compete without the hype.Key Takeaways- AI is the main event in audit, tax and a
The Future of Accounting Work in an AI-Driven World
Artificial Intelligence is creating a talent shock in accounting. Firms are hiring fewer graduates while demand for advisory skills skyrockets. AI is doing the routine work, leaving humans to handle judgment, strategy and communication. Rob Brown breaks down what this means for firm leaders, finance professionals and the next generation of accountants. He shares the mindset and actions needed to s
When AI Goes Wrong - What Accountants Need to Know
Artificial intelligence is transforming accounting but not always for the better. Rob Brown explores real-world AI controversies that have shaken trust in the profession. From Deloitte’s fabricated government report and Google Bard’s false scandals to Xero’s chatbot misfires these stories reveal the danger of blind automation.You will learn how to audit your AI use verify data and lead with transp
AI in Accounting: What's the Truth Behind the Hype?
In this episode of Accounting Voices, Rob Brown discusses the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the accounting profession. He emphasizes that AI is not a threat to jobs but rather to specific tasks, urging professionals to adapt and embrace AI to remain relevant. The conversation covers the slow adoption of AI in accounting firms, the implications for workforce dynamics, and
The Double-Edged Sword of AI in Accounting
In this episode of The Accounting Voices Podcast, Rob Brown talks with Ian Gregory, CTO of AdvanceTrack Outsourcing, about how artificial intelligence is reshaping the accounting profession. They explore where to start with AI, how to protect client data, what skills accountants need for the future, and why process excellence must come before automation. Ian’s insights bridge technology, talent an
Latest: From Accounting Influencers to Accounting Voices
Accounting Voices, hosted by Rob Brown, launches with a sharp new season focused on helping accounting and finance professionals stay relevant, visible and vocal in a profession being reshaped by AI, automation, private equity and consolidation. This is not a show about technical standards or software. It is about leadership, authority and influence — the softer skills that matter most when the ru
CPA Career Insurance: Build Your Personal Brand
In Episode 6, the finale of this 6-part series, Rob Brown explains why your personal brand is your greatest asset in the age of AI and consolidation. Compliance is collapsing. Clients want advisors. Tech is an ally. But the only thing you fully control is your visibility, authority and influence.Rob shares stats from LinkedIn and Edelman, examples from firms, and 5 practical actions to start build
Advisory Technology for Modern Accounting Careers
n Episode 5 of this 6-part series, Rob Brown shows how accountants can turn technology from a threat into an ally. With AI automating compliance, the winners will be those who harness tech to automate, analyse and advise.Rob shares stats on firm growth, real-world examples and a 5-step action plan to start making tech your ally today.This series is not about firms. It is about you — your visibilit
The Accountant’s Playbook: From Compliance to Counsel
In Episode 4 of this 6-part series, Rob Brown lays out the practical playbook to move from compliance worker to trusted advisor. Using a 5-step framework — repackage, reprice, retrain, rebrand and replace — you’ll learn how to build advisory services that clients value and careers that last.Rob shares firm examples, stats from the AICPA, and a 5-action starter kit to help accountants make the shif
Why Accountants Need to Develop an Advisor’s Mindset
In Episode 3 of this 6-part series, Rob Brown explains why the biggest shift accountants must make is in mindset. Advisory is not a service line. It is a way of thinking.Compliance asks “what happened.” Advisory asks “what’s next.” And only one of those roles has a future. Rob shares the evidence, the 5 advisory skills AI cannot replace, and a practical playbook for developing the mindset that kee
Could CAS & Advisory Be What Saves Accounting from AI?
In Episode 2 of this 6-part series, Rob Brown explains why clients no longer value accountants as form-fillers and why they are demanding advisors who bring foresight, strategy and fluency.With 70% of SMEs saying they would switch firms for more proactive advice, advisory is no longer optional. Rob shares the evidence, real-world examples and a 5-step playbook to align your work with client expect
The Automation & AI Tsunami That's Killing Compliance
In Episode 1 of this 6-part series, Rob Brown explains why compliance work is collapsing under AI, automation and private equity consolidation. Accountants who stay compliance-only face price erosion, invisibility and unemployment.Rob shares hard stats, cross-industry signals and a 5-step survival playbook for protecting your career. This series is not about firms. It is about you — your visibilit
The New Shape of Accounting Firms in an AI & PE World
In this final episode of the six-part series, Rob Brown explores what the accounting firm of the future will really look like.Smaller teams. Fewer layers. Modular delivery. Tech-first talent. Clients demanding speed, insight and strategic value. The future firm is already taking shape. Are you part of it?Global economic pressure, rising automation, and evolving business models are forcing firms to
Silent Firing & Morale Erosion Comes to Accounting
n this episode, Rob Brown exposes a subtle but widespread issue in accounting firms: silent firing.**You haven’t been let go. But you’re no longer invited to meetings. Projects go to others. Nobody is talking about your future. You feel sidelined. Not officially, not publicly, but unmistakably.This is silent firing. And it's happening across the profession.This is episode four in a six-part series
The Quiet Crisis Facing Senior Accounting Leaders
In this episode, Rob Brown tackles the slow decline of influence among top accounting leaders.**This is episode three in a six-part series on the broken career ladder in accounting. We’ve covered the collapse of entry-level roles and the hollowing out of mid-level staff. Now, we confront what’s happening at the top—where seasoned partners and firm leaders are watching their influence erode.Rob exp
The Dangerous Hollowing Out of Mid-Level Accounting
In this episode, we explore the profound impact of AI and automation on the accounting profession, particularly how these technologies are hollowing out the middle level of accounting roles. Join us with expert Rob Brown as we discuss the challenges and opportunities this shift presents.Key Takeaways:Mid-Level Disruption: Understanding how AI is automating tasks traditionally handled by mid-level
The Death of Entry-Level Accounting - What's Happening?
In this episode of the Accounting Influencers podcast, Rob Brown discusses the challenges facing entry-level accounting jobs, including the impact of automation and AI on the profession. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to new skills and the evolving nature of accounting careers. The conversation highlights the need for fresh talent and the changing expectations of firms in the accounting
How to Become More Influential Without a Fancy Job Title
In this episode, Rob Brown breaks down how professionals can build serious influence even if they don’t have a senior job title.Whether you’re in accounting, law, consulting or corporate leadership, this episode gives bold strategies to lead from the middle. Rob dives into how to build trust, shape decisions and earn visibility without needing permission or power. Perfect for ambitious professiona
What Accounting Leaders Say to Destroy Their Influence
In this episode, Rob Brown explains how accountants are sabotaging their authority by being too nice, too humble and too silent.What makes someone respected in today’s accounting profession? Rob Brown explores five subtle behaviours that quietly destroy professional authority and credibility. From downplaying your presence to chasing approval, these hidden habits often go unnoticed. But they’re co
The Entrepreneurial Wake-Up Call for Accountants
In this episode, Rob Brown delivers a wake-up call to accounting firms stuck in legacy thinking and explains why entrepreneurial mindsets are now mission-critical.Accounting used to be about consistency, caution, and compliance. Today, it's about creativity, innovation, and commercial bravery. In this solo episode, Rob Brown unpacks why accounting firms must ditch their old ways of working and emb
Accountants - Why Personal Brand Beats Corporate Brand
Even if your accounting firm’s brand is forgettable, your personal brand doesn’t have to be. Most accounting firms have forgettable brands. Weak taglines, boring websites and zero personality. But the real problem? Most professionals inside these firms are invisible too. In this episode, Rob Brown shares how partners, managers and leaders can build their own standout brands, even inside bland firm
Is DEI Dead or Just Rebranded in Accounting Firms?
In this episode, Rob Brown reveals what’s really going on with DEI in accounting firms. While some headlines suggest diversity efforts are being scrapped, the truth is more subtle. Across the UK, US and beyond, firms are not abandoning DEI. They are rebranding it. Quietly. Strategically. This is the new phase of inclusion work. Less noise, more integration. The focus has shifted from visibility to
Is Accounting Still a Smart Career Move Long Term?
In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, Rob Brown explores whether accounting is still a smart career choice. He speaks to professionals at every stage from new starters to seasoned partners and firm owners. The conversation tackles the realities of burnout, the rise of AI and automation, and the growing demand for leadership and strategic thinking in the profession. Rob also shares
7 Ways Private Equity Is Reshaping Accounting Firms
Private equity is flooding into the accounting profession, transforming firm structures, governance models and leadership dynamics.In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, host Rob Brown breaks down the seismic impact of PE investment and what it means for accounting leaders, partners and rising stars.Key TakeawaysOver $2 billion of PE has poured into US accounting inthree yearsTradi
What's Missing for Influence with Accounting Leaders
In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, Rob Brown exposes the biggest weakness in most accounting firm leaders - the inability to let go. He explores the five levels of leadership influence and explains why context, not content, is what truly drives performance, accountability and culture inside firms.If you’re stuck in reviews, decisions, and approvals, this episode is a wake-up ca
Insights on the Different Genres of Accounting Podcasts
In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, Rob Brown breaks down the different types of accounting podcasts and why they matter. From industry news and exam prep to tech trends and personal stories, podcasts now serve every level of the profession. Rob explains how to choose the right shows for your stage of career and how smart listening can sharpen your thinking and raise your influe
Where Accounting Podcasts Are Going in 2025
In this solo episode Rob Brown explores the major podcast trends shaping 2025 and why they matter for busy accounting professionals. With more shows, noise and content than ever, the winners are not just the loudest, they are the smartest. Rob breaks down what to listen for, why AIP leads the pack and how the right podcast can build your credibility and strategic value inside and outside your firm
Work-Ready Grads in Accounting? Something's Missing!
Grads aren’t ready for the world of work. Schools aren’t helping. And accounting firms are paying the price. In this episode, Rob Brown breaks down the skills crisis facing employers, especially accounting firms. Why are so many graduates, interns and junior hires entering the workforce unprepared? What’s going wrong in the education system? And what can firm leaders do about it?Rob explores the m
Accounting Leaders - What Gen Z Really Thinks of You
Gen Z has entered the accounting profession — and they’re calling time on toxic leadership. In this episode, Rob Brown outlines the five most damaging behaviours driving young talent away from firms. From micromanagement to presenteeism, he explains why these outdated habits are no longer tolerated, and what leaders must do to retain the future of the profession.Key Takeaways:-Toxic behaviours are
The One Area AI Can Never Beat Accounting Professionals
In this episode, Rob Brown discusses the impact of AI on the accounting profession, emphasizing the necessity for accounting professionals to embrace AI literacy and adapt to the evolving landscape. He highlights the importance of focusing on the human aspects of accounting that AI cannot replicate, such as emotional intelligence and complex problem-solving. The conversation also covers actionable
Accountants - Is AI Damaging Your Personal Credibility?
In this episode of the Accounting Influencer podcast, Rob Brown discusses the dual nature of artificial intelligence in accounting, emphasizing its potential to enhance content creation and personal branding while cautioning against losing authenticity. He advocates for leveraging AI as a tool to amplify one's voice and ideas rather than allowing it to replace them. The conversation highlights the
Accountants: Should You Stay Loyal or Leave Your Firm?
In this episode, Rob Brown discusses the complexities of job switching in the accounting profession, exploring the motivations behind leaving a job and the factors that contribute to job satisfaction. He highlights the importance of evaluating both red flags that may indicate it's time to move and green flags that suggest staying put. The concept of a 'forever firm' is introduced, emphasizing the
Top Tips for Leading to Push Accounting Firm Growth
In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, host Rob Brown speaks with Gale Crosley, one of the world's foremost strategic growth advisors to accounting firms. Together they explore why many CPA firms struggle with sustainable growth, the rise of private equity in the profession, and how firms can position themselves for long-term success.Key Takeaways-Strategic growth means sustainable
What Accountants Need to Know About Attending Events
In this episode of the Accounting Influencers podcast, Rob Brown engages with industry experts Will Yap, Denise M. Meyer, and Robert Prusa to explore the significance of events in the accounting profession. They discuss the value of attending events, the importance of building relationships, and what makes a good event. The conversation also delves into how accountants choose which events to atten
How Client Expectations Are Changing: Need to Know
In this conversation, Rob Brown and Eric Gregg discuss the importance of understanding client needs in the accounting industry, emphasizing the significance of specialization, effective online presence, and the role of technology in enhancing client relationships. They explore the concept of the 'Day One Accounting Firm,' which highlights how firms can position themselves to be top of mind for pot
Corporate and Big 4 Layoffs - Trouble for Accounting?
Are corporate layoffs and strict return-to-office mandates causing a talent crisis in accounting? Host Rob Brown explores how major changes at large firms like PwC, Deloitte, and KPMG are reshaping the landscape and what smaller accounting firms can do to capitalize on these shifts. Discover why leaders at all levels must rethink their strategies to attract and retain top talent.Key Takeaways:-Tra
DEI Retreat: a Death Sentence for Accounting Talent?
Why Are Accounting Firms Quietly Dropping DEI?Accounting firms are making drastic changes to their DEI programs, and not in the way you might think. KPMG has officially ended its "Accelerate 2025" program, following similar moves from Deloitte and others. Meanwhile, governing bodies like AICPA, CIMA, and ACCA are doubling down on DEI’s importance. So, what’s really happening? In this episode, Rob
The Big 4 Go Legal: Why KPMG’s Bold Step Matters to You
In this episode of the Accounting Influencer podcast, Rob Brown discusses KPMG's groundbreaking move to become the first major accounting firm in the US to own a law firm, following new laws in Arizona that allow non-lawyers to own law firms. This shift is driven by client demand for integrated services, advancements in technology, and the lucrative nature of legal services. Brown emphasizes the i
The Big DEI Split: What Smart Accounting Firms Are Doing
In this episode of the Accounting Influencers podcast, Rob Brown discusses the significant shift in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives at Deloitte, where the US branch has decided to shut down its DEI program while the UK branch continues its commitment. This split reflects a broader trend among major corporations retreating from DEI commitments, influenced by political changes and
The Gen Z Takeover: What It Means for Accounting Firms
By 2025, Gen Z will make up 1 in 10 managers, bringing fresh perspectives, bold expectations, and digital fluency to the workplace. But for accounting firms, this generational shift presents both challenges and opportunities. In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, Rob Brown dives into the heart of the Gen Z revolution in accounting. Are they lazy, entitled, and impossible to manage
Return to Office Mandates in Accounting: What Gives?
Return-to-office mandates are making waves in the accounting profession. Some firms are tightening policies, while others embrace hybrid work. What’s the real reason behind these decisions? Are RTO mandates about productivity, or are firms using them for hidden cost-cutting measures? Rob Brown breaks it all down in this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast.Key Takeaways:- RTO mandates are
PE Disruption in Accounting: What Leaders Need to Know
In this episode,, Rob Brown and Gary Shamis delve into the impact of private equity on the accounting industry, exploring its rise, implications for mergers and acquisitions, and the challenges faced by smaller firms. They discuss the role of leadership in navigating disruption and highlight the opportunities available in the current accounting landscape, particularly for middle-market firms.Key T
Accounting Firms - Is Staying Independent an Option?
In this episode, Rob Brown invites Gary Shamis to discuss the challenges and strategies for accounting firms to maintain independence in a landscape dominated by mergers, acquisitions and private equity. Learn the importance of partner alignment, succession planning, leadership and a recalibrated partner buyout process as essential elements for firms to thrive independently. Plus winning strategie
Hybrid Working Best Practices for Accounting Firms
Rob Brown interviews John Wichmann and John Fenton on the evolving landscape of hybrid work in the accounting industry. They explore the importance of intentionality, accountability, and the overall employee experience in creating a successful hybrid work environment. The discussion highlights the challenges firms face in adapting to new work models, the necessity of structured opportunities for c
Need to Know Technology Trends in 2025 for Accountants
In today's show, Rob Brown interviews Steve Cox to explore the current state of the accounting profession, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities it faces. Key themes include the impact of technology, staffing shortages, and changing client expectations. The discussion emphasizes the need for accountants to adapt to these changes, particularly in terms of technology adoption and mindse
The Four Biggest Challenges Facing Accounting Firms
Is technology the saviour or the grim reaper of accounting? In this episode of the Accounting Influencers podcast, Rob Brown and Steve Cox delve into the transformative role of technology in the accounting profession. They discuss the historical evolution of accounting technology, the current state of AI, and its implications for the future. Steve shares insights from Gartner's technology tre
PE's New Digital Divide in Accounting Firm Leadership
In this episode of the Accounting Influencers podcast, Rob Brown discusses the alarming statistic that 65% of current accounting firm partners will be considered digitally obsolete within three years. He emphasizes the transformative impact of private equity on the accounting industry, highlighting the need for leaders to adapt to rapid changes in technology and client service models. The conversa
PE & Accounting Talent: Building Teams That Don't Leave
In this episode, Rob Brown discusses the transformative impact of private equity on the accounting profession, particularly in terms of talent acquisition and retention. He highlights how private equity-backed firms are reshaping the traditional accounting model by offering new roles, competitive compensation structures, and accelerated career paths. Brown emphasizes the need for accounting leader
PE's Leadership ShakeUp: Accounting's Winners & Losers
In this episode, Rob Brown discusses the significant changes in the accounting profession driven by private equity investments. He highlights the urgent need for accounting leaders to adapt to new leadership dynamics, emphasizing the importance of transformational skills, agility, and a growth mindset. The conversation outlines actionable steps for leaders to remain relevant and influential in a r
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