How well-equipped is the accounting profession to handle rapid technological advancements and a changing workforce? Are firms ready to embrace the future or stuck in outdated models?

Rob Brown hosts an expert panel featuring Todd Robinson, Angie Grissom, Itamar Jobani, and James Hickey to discuss the future of the accounting profession. The conversation explores critical challenges facing accountants today, such as adapting to technological changes, AI integration, talent retention, and shifting towards a more advisory-based role. The panel shares their unique insights on how firms must navigate cultural shifts, embrace leadership, and rethink their traditional business models to stay competitive.

The discussion also highlights the necessity of upskilling accountants and the role of technology in shaping the future. The panel dives deep into the transformative impact of AI, the benefits of a corporate rather than partnership model, and how firms can move from good to great by telling better stories and offering more personalized advisory services. They also emphasize the importance of attracting and retaining talent in a profession undergoing rapid change.

Key Takeaways:

✓ The accounting profession faces a critical people problem with talent shortages, driven by long work hours and declining interest from younger generations.

✓ Contrary to fears, AI will not replace accountants but will enhance their roles by automating mundane tasks and enabling them to focus on strategic advisory services.

✓ Strong leadership and innovative culture are key to moving accounting firms from good to great. Firms must empower young talent and create a strategic approach to problem-solving.

✓ Accountants need to stop fearing technology and start viewing it as an enabler that helps streamline operations and enhance client service.

✓ The outdated partnership model should evolve toward a corporate structure, enabling firms to be more agile and strategic.

Quotes:

"Your top clients are your competitors' top prospects. Are you showing up as their trusted advisor?" – Angie Grissom

"AI won't kill the accounting profession; it will free accountants to do the work that really matters." – Itamar Jobani

"Firms need to stop doing what they've always done and rethink what it means to add value in today's market." – James Hickey

"The biggest threat? Talent. The next generation doesn't see accounting as sexy, and we need to change that." – Todd Robinson

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/JLCm3FGilXk

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

Are accountants ready to tackle the future, or will technology leave them behind? What major shifts are disrupting the profession, and how can accountants stay relevant?

Rob Brown leads a lively discussion with an international panel of accounting professionals: Dr. Anton Lewis, Kelly Mann, Sabby Gill, and Eriona Bajrakurtaj. Together, they discuss the pressing challenges and emerging opportunities facing the accounting profession today. The conversation goes through how technology, particularly AI, is reshaping the landscape and what firms must do to stay competitive. The panelists also discuss the generational divide in tech adoption, the shortage of accounting talent, and the evolving role of accountants from traditional number-crunchers to strategic business advisors.

The debate highlights the need for accountants to embrace innovation, improve client communication, and network with peers for knowledge sharing. As the profession moves forward, the panelists emphasize the importance of staying agile, adapting to technological advancements, and rethinking the skill sets accountants need to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

Key Takeaways:

✓ Firms that don’t adopt technology will fall behind and face extinction in the rapidly evolving accounting landscape.

✓ Younger generations are more adept with tech but lack real-world experience; older generations need to catch up to new tools.

✓ Accountants must see AI as a partner to enhance efficiency and service, rather than something that will replace them.

✓ Moving beyond compliance, accountants need to focus on strategic advice and deeper client relationships.

✓ Breaking down the silos within the profession can foster collaboration and innovation, helping accountants provide better services.

Quotes:

“In adversity, there is advantage—accounting’s crisis is your opportunity.” – Anton Lewis

“Accountants need to stop being generalists and start specializing.” – Kelly Mann

“Technology is here to complement, not replace us—let’s use it to provide better services.” – Eriona Bajrakurtaj

“If you don’t adopt technology now, you’ll become the laggard of the industry.” – Sabby Gill

“The profession’s future lies in moving from compliance to deep, proactive client engagement.” – Rob Brown

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/I9hLkQMp2G4

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

Is private equity killing or saving public accounting? What does the future hold for the accounting profession in the age of PE and AI?

Rob Brown sits down with Tim Brackney, CEO of a private equity-backed accounting and advisory platform, to discuss the impact of private equity on the accounting profession. With a background in professional services and a current role at the intersection of PE and accounting, Brackney offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

The conversation delves into the current state of the accounting profession, highlighting the critical talent shortage and the evolving expectations of the younger workforce. Brackney shares his thoughts on how private equity is reshaping the traditional partnership model, driving efficiencies, and potentially offering solutions to long-standing issues in the industry. The discussion also touches on the interplay between private equity and artificial intelligence, and how these forces might shape the future of accounting.

Key Takeaways:

✓ Private equity is not killing public accounting, but rather offering potential solutions to existing problems

✓ The accounting profession is facing a critical talent shortage, with fewer people entering and staying in the field

✓ Private equity is creating both turbulence and opportunities in the accounting industry

✓ The traditional partnership model in accounting firms is being challenged by new structures and expectations

✓ The combination of private equity and AI could drive efficiencies and change the focus of accounting professionals

Quotes:

"Private equity is not killing public accounting. Public accounting, I think, was killing public accounting."

"Talent's looking for a different way to operate. They want more flexibility. They want more ownership."

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/_FML6KBXYt8

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Is the accounting profession ready for its biggest transformation yet? With AI, private equity, and a talent shortage, how can firms stay competitive?

Rob Brown is joined by top accounting leaders—Anthony Pugliese, Mark Edmondson, Philip Whitman, and Randy Crabtree—to discuss the shifts happening within the accounting profession. From technological advancements like AI to the increasing focus on ESG reporting, the panel explores the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for accounting firms.

The discussion covers critical issues such as the talent shortage, the evolution of accounting into advisory roles, and the pressure on firms to embrace digital transformation. Despite the challenges, the panelists are optimistic about the future, highlighting how firms can adapt by upskilling, embracing technology, and changing traditional mindsets around compliance and billing models.

Key Takeaways:

✓ The profession is moving rapidly toward automation and AI, but accountants need to adopt these technologies to stay relevant.

✓ Private equity is increasingly involved in the accounting industry, driving efficiency and digital transformation across firms.

✓ With 75% of accountants nearing retirement, firms face a significant talent shortage. The profession needs to become more attractive to younger generations.

✓ The traditional hourly billing model is outdated. Firms must focus on value-based pricing to stay competitive and align with modern business practices.

✓ To attract top talent, firms must prioritize culture, mental health, and work-life balance, especially in an era where burnout is prevalent.

Quotes:

"We have to stop selling time and start selling value. It’s about outcomes, not hours." – Randy Crabtree

"Private equity sees accounting firms as the next big thing. The potential for efficiency and profit is immense." – Philip Whitman

"The future of accounting isn’t just about compliance—it’s about being partners in innovation and technology." – Anthony Pugliese

"Accountants need to shift their mindset from risk-averse to proactive if they want to survive and thrive." – Mark Edmondson

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/p-yr1Htaqmc

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Are you ready for the AI revolution in accounting? Can the profession attract young talent in the face of tech-driven disruption?

In this thought-provoking episode, host Rob Brown brings together industry veterans Bobby Lane, Randy Wootton, Rick Richardson, and Tony Szczepaniak to dissect the evolving landscape of the accounting profession. The panel dives deep into the integration of AI, the looming talent crisis, and the shifting demands of modern clients.

Despite acknowledging significant challenges, including waning interest from younger generations and the disruptive force of emerging technologies, the experts offer a beacon of hope. They provide valuable insights on how accounting firms can adapt to this new reality, leveraging AI to deliver high-value advisory services and capitalizing on the increasing complexity of client needs. This episode serves as an essential guide for accounting professionals looking to navigate the turbulent waters of change and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

Key Takeaways:

✓ AI will automate routine tasks, but firms embracing it can provide higher-value advisory services

✓ The industry faces a critical shortage of young professionals due to competition from tech sectors

✓ Firms focusing on specialized services or niche markets will be more competitive

✓ Clients now expect strategic advice and insights beyond traditional compliance work

✓ The rise of entrepreneurship creates opportunities for comprehensive back-office solutions

Quotes:

"AI isn’t going to replace accountants—but accountants who embrace AI will replace those who don’t." – Bobby Lane

"The firms that survive will be those that move from back-office number crunching to front-office business strategy." – Randy Wootton

"Young people aren’t avoiding accounting because it’s boring—they're choosing careers where they can see the impact of their work faster." – Rick Richardson

"We’re not asking if change will happen anymore. The conversation now is about when and how." – Tony Szczepaniak

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/I7NMqA9vZjg

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

How are the most successful accountants navigating the rapid changes in technology, regulation, and talent shortages? What secrets are the top industry leaders using to stay ahead in this ever-evolving landscape?

Rob Brown leads a dynamic panel discussion with industry leaders Randy Johnston, Harry Blum, Jennifer O'Carroll, and Trevor Greenway. They discuss the profound shifts happening in the accounting profession today, from the impact of private equity to the essential role of technology and the future of talent management. The conversation explores through the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, regulatory changes, and the evolving role of accountants as trusted advisors.

The panelists provide actionable advice on how firms can embrace change, enhance their value propositions, and future-proof their businesses. They also discuss the critical importance of upskilling, the integration of technology, and the need for accountants to adapt to a rapidly changing environment. Whether you're a firm owner, a practicing accountant, or someone interested in the future of the profession, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

Key Takeaways:

✓ AI is transforming how accountants operate by automating routine tasks and providing deeper insights through data analysis.

✓ As technology continues to advance, accountants must develop new skills to keep pace. This includes learning to use advanced software tools, understanding data security, and becoming proficient in data analysis.

✓ The growing involvement of private equity in the accounting sector is changing traditional business models. Private equity firms bring significant capital and a focus on efficiency, which can lead to innovations but also challenges to established practices.

✓ The accounting industry is experiencing a shift from compliance-based services to advisory roles. This change is driven by the decreasing profitability of compliance work due to automation and regulatory changes. Firms that want to thrive must pivot towards offering more value-added advisory services, where they can provide strategic insights and guidance to their clients, rather than just focusing on routine tasks.

✓ A firm’s culture and sense of purpose are key to attracting and retaining top talent. In an environment where competition for skilled accountants is fierce, organizations that clearly define their mission and foster a positive, inclusive culture will stand out.

Quotes:

"Different is not always better, but better is always different." - Harry Blum

"Accountants aren't just number crunchers; they're the key to unlocking business success." - Rob Brown

"The future of accounting isn't about compliance, it's about being a proactive, trusted advisor." - Trevor Greenway

"If you're not leveraging AI, you're already behind the curve." - Randy Johnston

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/g0ewmI109bE

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world.

Are AI and ChatGPT revolutionizing business advisory services? How can accountants leverage these tools to deliver more value to their clients?

Rob Brown and Mark Wickersham, an expert in value pricing and AI applications for accountants, tackles the world of ChatGPT and artificial intelligence, exploring how these technologies are transforming the accounting profession, particularly in the realm of business advisory services.

Mark shares his insights on how AI can help accountants overcome time constraints and boost confidence in providing strategic advice. He discusses the potential of ChatGPT for ideation, research, and strategy development, emphasizing that while AI is a powerful tool, it won't replace human expertise. The conversation covers practical applications, best practices, and ethical considerations for integrating AI into accounting workflows.

Key Takeaways:

✓ ChatGPT excels at ideation, research, and strategy development for business advisory

✓ AI can help accountants overcome time constraints and confidence issues in providing advisory services

✓ Accountants need to adapt to AI to stay relevant and maintain a competitive edge

✓ ChatGPT can analyze financial data and provide insights for client meetings

✓ The value is in the conversation with clients, not just in AI-generated reports

Quotes:

"AI is not going to replace us. It's how our competitors are going to use AI that's going to replace us."

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/jFQfxfl1W7A

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Is accounting really a dying profession? Or is it on the cusp of an exciting revolution?

Rob Brown brings together a panel of industry experts to debate the future of accounting. Despite current challenges, the panelists paint a picture of a profession ripe with opportunity for those willing to embrace change and innovation.

The discussion covers critical issues facing the accounting world, including talent shortages, technological disruption, and the need to rebrand the profession to attract new generations. The panelists offer insightful perspectives on how firms can adapt their business models, leverage technology, and create more fulfilling career paths. While acknowledging the hurdles, there's a strong sense of optimism about accounting's vital role in helping businesses succeed and the diverse opportunities available to those entering the field.

Key Takeaways:

✓ The accounting profession needs to rebrand itself to attract new talent

✓ Firms should move away from the "minnow management" business model to improve profitability and work-life balance

✓ Technology vendors need to work more closely with accountants to develop truly useful solutions

✓ Involving next-gen talent in technology decisions can help drive innovation in firms

✓ There's a need to make the profession more inclusive and representative of the community

Quotable Moments:

"Accountants are the superheroes of the economy." - Renee Moelders

"The only thing that's consistent in our firm is change." - Andrew Berg

"We need to celebrate the successes and focus on the good things about the profession." - Sona Akmakjian

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/QjI8E_kI8Z4

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube