ACPEN: Leading Into the Future: Rethinking Work, Value & Leadership in Accounting

Overview

The accounting profession is at a crossroads — not because of a new generation, but because the entire architecture of work is being rewritten. Smaller firms are feeling it most: recruiting has become harder, AI is changing client expectations overnight, and leadership succession looms large. In this fast-moving and practical session, global future-of-work strategist Steve Cadigan (LinkedIn’s first CHRO and author of Workquake) unpacks how small and mid-sized firms can reimagine how they attract, develop, and lead talent in a world where certainty is gone and adaptability is gold. Through real-world examples from progressive firms like Bookminders, Prestige Accounting, LedgerWise, Nova Accounting, and Insights CPAs, Steve shows how leaders are reshaping work models, leveraging AI as a time- creator, and making accounting a magnet for modern talent again. 

Highlights

• Talent Strategy
• Leadership
• AI
• Adaptability
• Future of Work
• Succession

Prerequisites

None

Designed For

All Professionals  

Objectives

• Analyze the structural forces reshaping the accounting profession
• Reimagine talent attraction and retention strategies for smaller firms
• Leverage AI to enhance efficiency and human decision-making
• Apply adaptive leadership practices to prepare for succession and change
• Implement actionable steps to future-proof firm growth and culture

Preparation

 None