Episode description

In this episode of The Accounting Influencers Podcast, host Rob Brown dives into the world of private equity and its growing impact on accounting firms. With firms like Baker Tilly and Grant Thornton selling stakes to private equity, Rob explores what this means for firm growth, independence, and leadership. Should accounting firms embrace private equity or avoid it at all costs? Listen in for a deep dive into the opportunities and risks that private equity brings to the accounting profession.

Key Takeaways

• Private equity is increasingly targeting accounting firms, offering capital and growth opportunities.
• Firms like Baker Tilly and Grant Thornton have already sold stakes to private equity.
• Private equity helps firms attract top talent, invest in technology, and compete in mergers.
• The downside: more debt, outside control, and potential conflicts of interest with clients.
• Private equity-backed firms may face challenges in maintaining long-term client trust.
• SEC concerns about auditor independence could reshape how private equity is viewed in accounting.
• Leaders must decide whether private equity is a growth enabler or a risk to firm independence.

Killer Quotes

• "Would you sell half of your accounting firm to private equity for a billion dollars?"
• "Private equity could be the biggest opportunity—or the greatest threat—to your firm’s independence."
• "Accounting firms are at a crossroads: stay independent or accept private equity investment."
• "Private equity is reshaping accounting firms, but at what cost?"
• "The talent war is fierce, and private equity is the weapon many firms are choosing."
• "Could private equity undermine the long-term trust clients place in their accounting firms?"
• "The question isn’t whether private equity is coming—it’s already here."

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If you’re an influencer in the accounting world and want to elevate your reputation, we’ve got just the thing. Rob Brown offers a personalized service that takes the burden of content creation off your shoulders. We do video interviews and turn them into compelling blogs, articles, and social media clips, positioning you as an expert in your field. Reach out to see how we can help you stand out!

As accountants, your technical skills are only half the story. To truly gain influence, you need to connect with the wider ecosystem that surrounds accounting firms—technology providers, consultants, and other industry experts. That’s where the Accounting Influencers Roundtable (AIR) can help. Head over to our LinkedIn page ‘Accounting Influencers’ to discover a space where accounting professionals can expand their network, get valuable insights, and connect with key players in the tech world. Check it out and start building those critical connections today!

The Accounting Influencers Podcast (AIP) is aimed at accounting firm leaders, managers, and partners looking to build their executive presence, influence, and credibility both internally and externally. The show focuses on helping professionals strengthen their personal brand, stay informed about industry changes, and navigate disruptive forces affecting accounting business models and trends. The content includes solo insights from host Rob Brown as well as interviews or panel discussions with industry leaders. Check out the show on your preferred podcast app or platform, or go to the Accounting Influencers YouTube channel for all of the episodes...