FICPA Mega 2023 Conference
Registration is Open
Overview:
MEGA 2023
Explore the Possibilities
Join accounting and finance professionals from across the state as they come together for FICPA’s Premier Event - MEGA. Explore all this year’s program has to offer with a wide variety of content focused on the profession’s latest trends and emerging topics, including cybersecurity, risk management, talent pipeline, and more along with an Exhibit Hall Solution Center filled with relevant tools and resources.
Earn up to 29 CPE with multiple educational tracks and special sessions to choose from, including hospitality, employee benefit plans, state taxes, women’s leadership, talent workshop, ethics, and more.
JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa brings modern luxury to Central Florida. Located near Disney World Resort, the JW Marriott offers warm, inviting social spaces and amenities. Hotel features include a spa, resort pool with splash pad, specialty restaurants and a rooftop terrace boasting nightly views of nearby Disney fireworks display.
________________________________________
Co-located Events
The FICPA is excited in bringing a diverse group of current and emerging leaders together under one roof during this action-packed and insightful event. Additional programming offered on-site during Mega include:
- Ethics: Protecting the Integrity of Florida CPAs (0004980)
- CPA Personal Financial Planning Bootcamp
- Building a Talent Management Plan
- Bridge The Gap
- Newly Certified Ceremony
- Accounting Scholars Leaders Symposium - Information coming soon
- Women's Leadership Summit
- Women's Leadership Summit
Thank you to our Sponsors & Exhibitors (booth numbers listed). Be sure to visit the Solution Center.
Schedule:
Tuesday, June 13, 2023
Ted Talk Style Learning Labs
Time: Tuesday 1:00pm - 5:00pm Credits: 4 TB
LL1: How CPAs can live their best lives!; CPA Alliance
Achieving Financial Independence is a goal we all should be working towards... but helping your clients do the same could be the magic bullet you're looking for to bring balance into your practice and life!
LL2: The Growing Vulnerability of Social Media Platforms and How to Reduce Your Firm's Risk; Coaxis
Social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube have emerged as attractive gateways for cybercriminals. Other platforms are also becoming hotbeds for hacking, such as social news sites like Reddit and review sites like TripAdvisor and Yelp. This program will discuss what makes social media platforms so desirable to hackers; review examples of how hackers use social media to commit cybercrimes; and provide methods to protect your firm from social media hackers.
Objectives:
Learn about some of the current social media channels and social news sites that are gateways for cybercriminals and discover methods to protect your firm from social media hackers.
Subjects:
Explore how hackers use social media to commit cybercrimes. Discover methods to protect your firm from social media hackers.
LL3: Marketing your Firm to the Next Generation; Anthem
Learn the Best Practices from firms that are succeeding in their Digital Marketing efforts. In this program you will get a real live action plan with steps to take back with you and implement in your daily marketing efforts to get results and experience a return on your time and investment.
LL4: Successful Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leadership; Paychex
Diverse organizations attract better talent. We all know that businesses are better when they have great employees. And it turns out that job candidates and employees want to work in diverse organizations. According to a 2020 Glassdoor survey, 76% of job seekers and employees polled said a diverse workforce was an important factor for them when evaluating job opportunities. Diverse employers can capture better talent, and that gives them a competitive advantage. The key to successful DEI initiatives begins with the business leaders and their knowledge and sophistication of these topics.
LL5: Energy Efficient Tax Incentives: Creating a Greener, More Profitable Future; Capstan
Buildings account for 40% of global emissions worldwide. Making properties more energy-efficient makes good business sense while being good for the planet. Certified Energy Manager Bruce Johnson discusses tax-saving energy incentives, impressive new technologies, and the role of the CPA in creating a greener future.
LL6: The Future of Accounting; Intuit
The objective of this session is to give you the information necessary to be successful as an accountant in the future. What once was is not anymore and what is, is changing everyday.
LL7: Time & Treasure – Adding Value to HNW clients; Matt Chancey, Consultant
Tax planning that gets implemented most often is built to serve the upper middle market. Entity selection, income shifting and qualified plans usually work well. But when your largest clients ask about tax saving ideas, what tools do you use and strategies can you implement that can actually move the tax needle for your top clients without lots of additional time to do research and without a clear way to get paid for that work. Is there a better way to get paid for your time while delivering meaningful value to your largest clients who already trust you?
LL8: Be the Unsung Hero to the Clients You Serve; DTY Wealth Advisor
CPAs are the most trusted advisor, especially to their high networth clients. Your opinion and advice is highly sought after, especially during tax triggering events. By providing valuable tax mitigation strategies to your clients, especially during their period of transiton, you become their super hero. Learn how and what you can offer to help your clients.
LL9: Business Concept of Gold, Zoho
Some things in life you learn from the school of hard knocks and others you learn from experienced people. Val Steed will share some business concepts that have made a significant difference in his thirty five plus year career in the CPA profession. This session is guaranteed to give you a concept or two of solid gold.
Learning Objectives: Identify and implement new business techniques to expand your business and endear your clients.
LL10: Understanding Client PEO Needs, JustWorks
Learn how to help your clients find the best PEO match for their business.
Gain insight into key components of PEO offerings.
LL11: Professional Liability Risk Management for CPA's; AON
Practitioner are exposed to risks with every client. This session focuses on where the risks are greatest, trends in professional liability, pitfalls to avoid and best practices. Key to protecting a practice is professional liability insurance; identifying how to use insurance is highlighted.
LL12: Employee Retention Credits; KBKG
The CARES Act and the American Rescue Plan established and expanded the Employee Retention
Credit as part of the COVID-19 relief plan for business impacted by the pandemic. In this session we will cover the basics of these refundable payroll tax credits.
LL13: The New World of Alternative Investments; Destiny Family Office
The HNW and UHNW have always been attracted to alternative investments, which traditionally meant hedge funds, real estate, and private equity investments. However, many of today’s astute investors have looked towards other avenues of alternative investments including collectibles and direct investments into private companies.
LL14: Alternative Risk Transfer Expectation: MSI
Alternative Risk Transfer is accomplished with Captive Insurance Companies owned by a business(s). Captives can make sense for qualifying businesses and are usually operated by a Captive Manager. Presentation describes business qualifications for Captives and Captive Manager expectations.
LL15: Three Ways Your Clients May Qualify For The Employee Retention Credit, ERC Providers
How many times do your clients hear from you after tax season?
How many times do you get to reach out to your clients with GOOD NEWS!?
The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERC) is your opportunity to help business owners recover some of their pandemic-related losses. This speech will explore the latest developments related to the ERC that practitioners need to advise clients regarding this continually changing provision. The course also
includes the latest ERTC updates as related to the new infrastructure legislation.
What:
The ERC was expanded from its original 2020 version to a more robust opportunity in 2021. The ERC is a refundable tax credit that encourages businesses to keep employees on their payroll and is worth up to $5,000 per employee in 2020 and up to $7,000 per employee per quarter in 2021, up to $26,000
per W-2 employee.
Why:
To encourage small businesses to invest in new opportunities, Congress expanded the ways that businesses can qualify for the ERC and also the size of employers that can qualify.
This presentation explores all of the latest developments related to the ERC that practitioners need to advise clients. The course will outline the three ways that employers can qualify for the ERC, based on the new infrastructure legislation.
Major Topics:
Three ways businesses can qualify for the ERTC in 2020 and 2021
How to measure a significant decline in quarterly revenues for 2020 and 2021
IRS Notice 2021-49: addressing tax practitioner concerns relating to the ERTC
LL16: How to Remain a Trusted Advisor to Your Clients, Alpha Results
CPAs who want to protect and grow their client base are doing everything they can to add value but sometimes must prioritize compliance over incentives due to a lack of capacity. Your clients are relying on you as their trusted advisor to steer them in the right direction and away from IRS scrutiny and penalties. As Alpharesults has partnered with CPAs for more than 20 years, we have the experience to support you with all your clients’ needs.
Presenters:
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
Continental Breakfast
Time: Wednesday 7:00am - 8:15am
Opening Remarks & State of the Profession
Time: Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00am Credits: 1 TB
MEGA’s opening session will highlight the most critical issues facing the CPA profession, both in Florida and across the country. We’ll touch on the current tax landscape, the changing audit, M&A, ESG, the talent pipeline and more. FICPA President & CEO Shelly Weir will moderate the discussion, as our panelists share their perspective and insight into how these topics are impacting firms of all shapes and sizes.
Presenters:
Florida Tax & Legislative Rules Update
Time: Wednesday 9:10am - 10:00am Credits: 1 TB
Hear the latest on the workings in Tallahassee of the 2023 Legislative Session. Learn what transpired in the 60 days of legislative action given the large anticipated budget surplus. What tax bills passed, failed, and are likely to be signed into law by the Governor. Additionally, understand what tax legislation and Rules are being utilized to address some of the recent legal rulings. Finally, hear the latest on the status of Commercial Rent Tax and if this Legislature continues the prior Legislature’s effort to significantly reduce the rate.
Presenters:
How to Plan for Cyber Security Risks
Time: Wednesday 9:10am - 10:00am Credits: 1 AA
The objective of this session is to better understand cybersecurity risk in employee benefit plans, and to discuss cybersecurity risk, responsibilities, preparedness, and response. We will review the latest DOL cybersecurity guidance, understand the applicability and responsibilities of the guidance for plan sponsors and participants, revisit the main focus areas, and identify next steps.
Presenters:
What is The Future of Accounting?
Time: Wednesday 9:10am - 10:00am Credits: 1 AA
The objective of this presentation is to enable the attendees to walk away with what is needed to succeed as an accountant in the future. Attendees will learn what it means to look forward instead of backwards and the differences between compliance and advisory services/consulting.
In addition we will work though a demonstration of ChatGBT and see how it works and how AI affects what we do now and in the future.
Presenters:
Break in Solutions Center
Time: Wednesday 10:00am - 10:25am
A National Survey on State Taxes - Part 1
Time: Wednesday 10:25am - 11:15am Credits: 1 TB
This presentation will provide an update on the National landscape of state and local tax litigation. Our journey will cover the broad topics income tax, sales and use tax, franchise tax and even unclaimed property. More specifically, we will examine of nexus, situsing/apportionment, combination, alternative apportionment and tax base. We will explain how the state and local jurisdictions are taxing corporations, partnerships and individuals. At the conclusion of this two part presentation the attendees will be up to date on how to battle the taxing jurisdictions in all the major types of tax.
Presenters:
Preparing for the big wave of ESOP transactions
Time: Wednesday 10:25am - 11:15am Credits: 1 AA
The course will focus on ESOP structures that are prevalent in 2023 and why ESOPs are becoming an ever increasingly utilized exit planning instrument, coupled with 409A executive comp. programs and advanced estate planning tools.
Presenters:
6 Steps to Protect Your Firm From Hacking
Time: Wednesday 10:25am - 11:15am Credits: 1 TB
Cybersecurity attacks have become more widespread over the past year as demonstrated by the average cost for recovery more than doubling since 2020, increasing from $761,106 to $1.85 million, according to Business Insider. This program will explore some of the largest breaches of 2021 by explaining how they were done; reviewing the impact and aftermath of the breach, and providing steps to protect your firm against growing cyber threats.
Objectives:
Learn about some of the most recent breaches and how you can protect your firm and your client’s information by following 6 steps to mitigate the risk.
Subjects:
Explore real examples of the largest breaches of 2021. Tips to protect your firm from cyber threats.
Presenters:
A National Survey on State Taxes - Part 2
Time: Wednesday 11:25am - 12:15pm Credits: 1 TB
This presentation will provide an update on the National landscape of state and local tax litigation. Our journey will cover the broad topics income tax, sales and use tax, franchise tax and even unclaimed property. More specifically, we will examine of nexus, situsing/apportionment, combination, alternative apportionment and tax base. We will explain how the state and local jurisdictions are taxing corporations, partnerships and individuals. At the conclusion of this two part presentation the attendees will be up to date on how to battle the taxing jurisdictions in all the major types of tax.
Presenters:
Accounting and Auditing Employee Benefit Plans Update
Time: Wednesday 11:25am - 12:15pm Credits: 1 AA
This session will discuss recent audit and accounting standards which impact employee benefit plan audits.
Presenters:
Taking Back Control of Your Marketing in 2023!
Time: Wednesday 11:25am - 12:15pm Credits: 1 TB
Digital Marketing is out of control! The amount of time and money that it takes for a small business to manage their marketing alone is completely unrealistic. Small businesses need to understand what options are out there for them just like their bigger competitors. The great news is that digital marketing is more affordable than ever! The problem is that you don't have the time to manage it all. In this workshop, You will learn what INC.500 companies are using to streamline and grow their businesses. Most importantly, you will learn how to take back control of your businesses most important asset; YOUR TIME!
Presenters:
Lunch
Time: Wednesday 12:15pm - 1:25pm
Miss List for Sales Tax - Hot Topics
Time: Wednesday 1:25pm - 2:15pm Credits: 1 TB
Florida sales and use tax can be perplexing for any business owner and follows substantially different rules from federal income taxes. Learn the latest hot topics to keep your company (or your client) out of hot water!
Presenters:
Secure Act 2.0
Time: Wednesday 1:25pm - 2:15pm Credits: 1 AA
In the final days of 2022, Congress passed the SECURE 2.0 Act, which is one of the most significant pieces of retirement plan legislation ever. Building on the original SECURE Act that was passed in 2019, the new laws touch nearly every facet of retirement plan design and administration, and will be phased in over the next few years. In this presentation, we'll highlight the provisions of SECURE 2.0 that CPAs will need to know as they audit retirement plans and help their clients and companies adapt to these new laws.
Presenters:
Achieving Financial Independence
Time: Wednesday 1:25pm - 2:15pm Credits: 1 TB
Financial independence is a goal everyone should have and know how to achieve. This course will teach you what financial independence really is, how to reach it, and how to protect it. You will learn about truths and myths with investing and gain a better understanding of how investments should be used to build wealth. You'll learn how financial planning works and why it is critical to financial independence. Lastly, you'll learn ways you can help your clients achieve and protect their financial independence.
Presenters:
State Taxation of Digital Assets and Cryptocurrency
Time: Wednesday 2:25pm - 3:15pm Credits: 1 TB
This course will review trends in state taxation of digital currencies and digital assets, with an emphasis on indirect tax. This review will include tax authorities’ anticipated reactions to the continued growth and volatility of the multi-billion dollar NFT market.
Presenters:
Employee Benefit Plans Audit Quality Center Practice Updates
Time: Wednesday 2:25pm - 3:15pm Credits: 1 AA
This session will provide participants with an update on AICPA activities that are relevant to EBP auditors. Topics will include:
• Recent advocacy efforts
• EBPAQC resources and tools available to members
• Other AICPA EBP resources
• AICPA audit quality initiatives, including Peer Review and Professional Ethics activities
Presenters:
What Are You Doing Now that Could Get You Sued in the Future? Employment Law Compliance
Time: Wednesday 2:25pm - 3:15pm Credits: 1 TB
This session is designed to inform organizational decision-makers on best practices of interaction with employees and employee-related processes at each point along the employment journey.
Specific tactics will be shared for insuring compliance with regulations for the more troublesome employee matters. Specific topics covered in this session include
- The EEOC’s opinion of supervisor recognized duty
- High risk of retaliation claims
- Americans with Disabilities Act
- Behavior vs Performance issues
- Aging Workforces
- Tricky pay issues
Presenters:
Break in Solutions Center
Time: Wednesday 3:15pm - 3:40pm
Department of Revenue General Tax Administration Hot Topics
Time: Wednesday 3:40pm - 4:30pm Credits: 1 TB
Presenters:
Peer Review- Update and Common Deficiencies.
Time: Wednesday 3:40pm - 4:30pm Credits: 1 AA
This session will provide an update on the AICPA's Peer Review Program, focusing on the new Enhanced Audit Quality initiatives for 2023, and review the most common deficiencies noted in peer reviews.
Presenters:
Current Trends in Sales Tax Compliance
Time: Wednesday 4:40pm - 5:30pm Credits: 1 TB
This session focuses on current trends in sales and use tax compliance and the impact of tax policy changes and evolving economic nexus provisions in the post-Wayfair age.
Presenters:
Employee Benefit Plans - The Strange and Unusual Findings
Time: Wednesday 4:40pm - 5:30pm Credits: 1 AA
Just when you think you've seen it all....you haven't. In this session, we'll have a little fun as our panel discusses some of the strangest and most unusual situations that they've encountered in audits of employee benefit plans. While some of these stories might sound crazy, they'll help you identify and prepare for some of the potential issues that you should be looking for in your benefit plan audits.
Presenters:
Tips & Tricks for Attracting, Recruiting, and Retaining Top Talent for Your Practice
Time: Wednesday 4:40pm - 5:30pm Credits: 1 BE
The future of work has changed and it's now tougher than ever to not only hire the employees you need, but also keep them. From early retirements to women leaving the workforce, to the burnout of essential workers and shifting of workers’ priorities – the scarcity of employees in the current labor market continues to wreak havoc on businesses in every industry. For businesses to succeed, organizations need to recruit the right people and then hold onto them . This workshop will discuss the key components of an effective recruitment and retention strategy with actionable takeaways.
Presenters:
Welcome Reception
Time: Wednesday 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Thursday, June 15, 2023
Continental Breakfast
Time: Thursday 7:00am - 8:00am
Networking Break in Solutions Center featuring an Innovation Session sponsored by CPE Reporting
Time: Thursday 7:20am - 7:40am
Sales Tax Audits
Time: Thursday 9:10am - 10:00am Credits: 1 AA
Thousands of businesses are audited each year and the disruption they create in a business can be enormous. TaxConnex conducted a study of finance professionals and found that being audited remains a top 3 concern among finance professionals. We'll discuss how to manage an audit - before, during, and after.
Presenters:
FASB Update
Time: Thursday 9:10am - 10:00am Credits: 1 AA
The FASB continues to be active. In this session we will look at what has been issued over the last twelve months, as well as other active projects. If you work with GAAP based financial statements, you don't want to miss this session.
Presenters:
Florida Legislative Update
Time: Thursday 9:10am - 10:00am Credits: 1 TB
Presenters:
Networking Break in Solutions Center featuring an Innovation Session sponsored by Cybersecurity Research
Time: Thursday 10:00am - 10:25am
Wayfair for International Companies
Time: Thursday 10:25am - 11:15am Credits: 1 TB
Wayfair for International will focus on helping international businesses and clients understand the impact the I.S. Supreme Court's decision in South Dakota v. Wayfair case on their sales tax obligations in the United States. The following topics will be covered: Overview of Wayfair decision, Nexus and economics presence, state-by- state analysis, Compliance requirements and best practices.
Presenters:
Due Diligence: Buyer/Seller/Both and Why
Time: Thursday 10:25am - 11:15am Credits: 1 AA
This session will discuss the reason for financial due diligence, sometimes referred to as quality of earnings, from the perspective of both sides of a business sale transaction. Why does each side need a quality of earnings analysis? What does the analysis entail?
Presenters:
Leadership Keys to be Successful in Diversity Equity and Inclusion Initiatives
Time: Thursday 10:25am - 11:15am Credits: 1 BE
Diverse organizations attract better talent. We all know that businesses are better when they have great employees. And it turns out that job candidates and employees want to work in diverse organizations. According to a 2020 Glassdoor survey, 76% of job seekers and employees polled said a diverse workforce was an important factor for them when evaluating job opportunities. Diverse employers can capture better talent, and that gives them a competitive advantage. The key to successful DEI initiatives begins with the business leaders and their knowledge and sophistication of these topics.
Presenters:
Florida Litigation Update
Time: Thursday 11:25am - 12:15pm Credits: 1 TB
Review of current Florida tax cases and their impacts on current Florida tax law and procedure. This presentation should allow attendees to incorporate current precedent into their client service while highlighting ongoing concerns.
Presenters:
Assurance Update - Auditing (ASB) and Review (SSARS) Standards
Time: Thursday 11:25am - 12:15pm Credits: 1 AA
This session will discuss the requirements and application of recently issued professional standards that change how CPAs plan, perform, and report on assurance engagements. Preparing for new quality management standards intended to improve a CPA firm's risk assessment and quality standards will also be addressed.
Presenters:
How to Build Efficiencies (Not Costs) in Centralized Accounting Offices
Time: Thursday 11:25am - 12:15pm Credits: 1 AA
After attending this session you will be able to recognize weak areas in your accounting office and implement procedures to improve efficiencies in a centralized accounting setting.
Presenters:
Lunch
Time: Thursday 12:15pm - 1:25pm
Networking Break in Solutions Center featuring an Innovation Session sponsored by Drake Software
Time: Thursday 1:00pm - 1:20pm
Topic: Tax Preparers: Boost Your Firm’s Efficiency with Drake Software
Speaker: John Slinkard, Sales and System Consultant
The Pass-Thru Entity Tax Puzzle: Solving Complexity
Time: Thursday 1:25pm - 2:15pm Credits: 1 TB
In this session, we will explore the complexities of pass-though entity taxes, Including the differences among 32 states and NYC PTE one regarding who can claim the PTE credit, whether the credit is refundable, effected entities, tax rate, election due date,, estimated payments, forms required opt-out for owners, and whether resident share is at 100% of apportioned income. We will also explore State pass-through-entity (PTE) taxes and ASC 740 analysis for financial statement purposes.
Presenters:
GASB Update
Time: Thursday 1:25pm - 2:15pm Credits: 1 AA
Learn about the latest GASB pronouncements that become effective in the coming fiscal years. The session will also explain some of the projects on GASB's current technical agenda and research agenda.
Presenters:
Hospitatliy Industry Multi-State Sales Tax Issues
Time: Thursday 1:25pm - 2:15pm Credits: 1 TB
Sales Tax Overview for the Hospitality Industry including a discussion on common audit issues.
Presenters:
State Tax: Technology and Data Transformation
Time: Thursday 2:25pm - 3:15pm Credits: 1 TB
This session will cover how established and emerging integrated technologies are being utilized to address both direct and indirect state tax needs. Additionally, as state income and indirect tax present numerous challenges related to voluminous and complex data sets, how to plan for and address these types of scenarios will also be discussed Holistically, the discussion will address the various ways that technology can be used to reach more accurate state tax results more efficiently.
Presenters:
Quality Management Standards Update
Time: Thursday 2:25pm - 3:15pm Credits: 1 AA
The new Quality Management Standards will impact all firms who issue attest level engagements. This session will focus on the changes from the current Quality Control Standards and the impact it will have on all firms. The session will also cover implementation suggestions as we get closer to the final due date.
Presenters:
Understanding AI Risks
Time: Thursday 2:25pm - 3:15pm Credits: 1 TB
Explore the potential risks and challenges associated with Artificial Intelligence (AI) in today's business landscape. Join us to gain a deeper understanding and practical insights on how to mitigate and manage these risks.
Presenters:
Networking Break in Solutions Center featuring an Innovation Session sponsored by Doro Foundation
Time: Thursday 3:15pm - 3:40pm
Topics: Maximize Your Impact: A Guide to Charitable Life Insurance Major Gifts
Speaker: Stephen Jass, CEO
Intangible Valuation in the Real Estate World
Time: Thursday 3:40pm - 4:30pm Credits: 1 AA
Different assets are taxed differently by different taxing authorities. Understanding the interrelationships and legal interests at issue is critical to proper tax reporting.
Presenters:
Professional Liability Risk Management for CPA’s
Time: Thursday 3:40pm - 4:30pm Credits: 1 AA
Practitioners are exposed to professional liability risks with every client. This session focuses on where the risks are greatest, trends in professional liability, pitfalls to avoid and best practices. Key to protecting a practice is professional liability insurance; identifying how to use insurance is highlighted.
Presenters:
Understanding Fraud and the Processes to Prevent in Industry
Time: Thursday 3:40pm - 4:30pm Credits: 1 AA
This presentation will educate attendees on fraud and introduce ways to prevent fraud in your place of business.
Presenters:
Talent Pipeline Panel Discussion
Time: Thursday 4:40pm - 5:30pm
According to the AICPA Trends Report, national college enrollments were down 9.5% from 2018 to 2022, accounting degree completions have been on the decline since 2016, and finding qualified staff remains a key issue for firms across the US.
During this timely panel discussion, moderated by FICPA President & CEO Shelly Weir, we’ll gather perspectives from academia, Big 4 leadership, and the Center for Audit Quality. We’ll outline what steps have already been taken to combat the talent shortage and address what still needs to be done to strengthen the accounting pipeline.
Presenters:
Swearing-in Ceremony
Time: Thursday 5:30pm - 6:00pm
I WILL be attending the FICPA Chair's Reception & MEGA Celebration (included in your MEGA Registration)
Time: Thursday 6:30pm - 9:00pm
I WILL NOT be attending the FICPA Chair's Reception & MEGA Celebration
Time: Thursday 6:30pm - 9:30pm
1 Guest for Chair Reception & Board Dinner
Time: Thursday 6:31pm - 9:30pm
1 Guest for Chair Reception & Board Dinner
Time: Thursday 6:32pm - 9:30pm
1 Guest for Chair Reception & Board Dinner
Time: Thursday 6:33pm - 9:30pm
1 Guest for Chair Reception & Board Dinner
Time: Thursday 6:34pm - 9:30pm
Friday, June 16, 2023
Continental Breakfast
Time: Friday 7:00am - 8:00am
Networking Break in Solutions Center featuring an Innovation Session sponsored by Inner PC
Time: Friday 7:20am - 7:40am
Topic: Soc 2 Compliancy, Is your Data Secure?
Speaker: Dan Fusco
Fraud Risk: Leveraging Lessons From Past Financial Troubles Tell Us and Help Us Navigate the Current Economic Environment
Time: Friday 8:00am - 8:50am Credits: 1 AA
The session objectives include:
- Defining Fraud Risk and how suck risk can be managed financially, strategically, and operationally.
- Using Anti-Fraud tools to increase organizational effectiveness
- Understand the opportunities gained through fraud risk management
Presenters:
Alternative Investments and the High Net-Worth
Time: Friday 8:00am - 8:50am Credits: 1 AA
Will discuss how high-net-worth investors allocate their investments and how alternatives have become an increasing part of this allocation. If, where and how cryptocurrency and collectible investments fit into the portfolio. How to share conversations with your clients regarding alternatives, including pros and cons of these investments.
Presenters:
Providing Tax Mitigation Strategies Will Help Your CPA Practice Grow & Thrive
Time: Friday 8:00am - 8:50am Credits: 1 TB
With thousands of the baby boomer generation retiring daily, resulting in many tax triggering events, the need for the trusted CPA to provide viable tax mitigation strategies in their financial planning services has never been more important!
By forming the TEAM BASED MODEL approach with strategic resources, CPAs’ can provide more value-add to their clients, be more time efficient, and more profitable.
Presenters:
Women's Leadership Summit (*To attend the Summit, please select it for all Friday session options)
Time: Friday 8:00am - 8:50am
Women's Leadership Summit
8:00-8:50am G01: The Power of Supportive Women's Network, Amy Vetter
Having a supportive network of women in your career can be one of the most important ingredients to your success. Like many young women, Amy believed that she would have the same opportunities as men in the workplace, but as she moved up the corporate ladder, she noticed more and more women were not alongside her. During this session, Amy will share research and lessons learned from her own experience, and that from women she admires, on how to grow and learn at any stage of your career to achieve your goals. No matter if you’re advanced in your career or just starting out, you will learn why it’s important for women to bring each other along on their professional journeys, and how to be more mindful in supporting and aligning with women who inspire you. To further support you in your career journey, you will learn powerful tools on how to discover and align your authentic self and inner talents with the work you do to create a greater sense of work-life harmony.
Learning objectives:
* How to create and nurture a supportive women’s network;
* Why it’s important to manage up, not just down;
* The power of finding or being a sponsor, not just a mentor;
* The steps to create a greater sense of work-life harmony; and,
* How to discover and align your authentic self and inner talents with the work you do.
Presenters:
Who Will Watch the Watchmen? Best Practices Reviewing a Business Appraisal
Time: Friday 9:00am - 9:50am Credits: 1 AA
A business valuation just came across your desk. Where do you start in your review process? What should you be looking for? What are the most common snags? What's your liability and exposure? This session will help members, both inside and outside the valuation space, understand why valuation review is important, the background needed to be effective in your review, and how to approach an appraisal review.
Presenters:
Two Truths and a Lie: What You Really Need to Know About the ERC
Time: Friday 9:00am - 9:50am Credits: 1 TB
There has been a lot of press about the abuses surrounding the Employee Retention Credit, causing CPAs to worry about their clients claiming the ERC under suspect qualification. As the client's trusted advisors, CPAs are often their clients' last line of defense. Join us as we walk through the ins and outs of the ERC and how to help your clients avoid being scammed.
Presenters:
Tax-Alpha Solutions: Effective tax management solutions for High Net Worth Investors
Time: Friday 9:00am - 9:50am Credits: 1 TB
After years of working with tax professionals it became obvious that most of the tax strategies that are being used are primary designed to benefit the mass affluent. From Multi-entity planning, income shifting, hiring your kids, the Augusta rules all the way to defined contribution and then defined benefit planning with the addition of deferred comp. There comes a point when those tools don't move the tax needle for clients you value most. We help trusted tax professionals with "power tools" when they tools they normally use for clients aren't powerful enough to help their largest clients move the tax needle.
Presenters:
Women's Leadership Summit (*To attend the Summit, please select it for all Friday session options)
Time: Friday 9:00am - 9:50am
Networking Break in Solutions Center featuring an Innovation Session sponsored by Once Accounting.
Time: Friday 9:50am - 10:10am
Topic: What Accounting Software Should Look Like for CPAs.
Speaker: Ford Baker
How to Talk to your Clients About Fraud
Time: Friday 10:10am - 11:00am Credits: 1 AA
CPAs need to be prepared to talk to their clients about the real possibility of fraud occurring in their organization. This course will show professionals how to talk to their clients about the risks of fraud and the best ways to protect them.
Presenters:
Energy-efficient Tax Incentives Under the Inflation Reduction Act
Time: Friday 10:10am - 11:00am Credits: 1 TB
The Inflation Reduction Act has transformed EPAct 179D and the 45L Tax Credit. Session will explore changes in benefit cap, calculation, timing, eligibility, reference standards and more. Impact of recent IRS Notice 2022-61 (Prevailing Wage Standards) on benefit will be addressed.
Presenters:
Blind Spots
Time: Friday 10:10am - 11:00am Credits: 1 TB
In this session, we’ll examine common planning blind-spots we find among affluent clients. Our goal is to provide you valuable insight that will enable you to enhance conversations with your clients that many CPA's are not likely having.
Presenters:
Women's Leadership Summit (*To attend the Summit, please select it for all Friday session options)
Time: Friday 10:10am - 11:00am
Women's Leadership Summit
10:10 - 11:00am G03: Beyond Burnout: How to Reset Your System, Manage Stress, and Find Balance in the Workplace, Dr. Brooke Stuart
Being an accountant can be extraordinarily taxing and it is important to take moments to reflect and audit your life! Is it possible to have stress work for rather than against us? In this talk, we will dive into exactly how to reset the system, manage stress, work through burnout and find the kind balance that lasts. By equipping ourselves with an empowering perspective and practical steps, we can begin to move beyond burnout and live an energized life based on expansion and growth. Here, you will learn how to:
• Reset your system in the blink of an eye
• Move through distress and rework feelings such as overwhelm and burn out
• Tap into untapped reservoirs of energy
• Utilize the power of mindfulness, meditation and journaling
• Support the system through mindset, diet, lifestyle and supplementation
• Tune in, connect and return to the present moment so that you can in turn, make choices that are in alignment with your health, desires and growth trajectory
Presenters:
Networking Break in Solutions Center featuring an Innovation Session sponsored by Pace
Time: Friday 11:00am - 11:20am
The IRS Criminal Investigation Unit - Uncovering the Dark Web
Time: Friday 11:20am - 12:10pm Credits: 1 AA
Have you been wondering what the dark web is? Who uses it? What can be found in it? How does it work? IRS-CI will answer all of these questions, in addition to explaining how virtual currency was created and is valued. Most importantly, IRS-CI will be answer questions regarding its place in the federal tax system and accounting.
Presenters:
Research & Development Tax Credits
Time: Friday 11:20am - 12:10pm Credits: 1 AA
This topic will cover the fundamentals of the Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credit. We will go over the history and recent developments, project qualifications, calculating the benefits, the chronology of a typical project and common issues.
Objectives:
- Provide a general overview of the R&D Tax Credit
- Learn how to identify qualifying projects
- Understand the various calculation methods
- Discuss the project implementation and issues to consider
Presenters:
PEO 101: When Professional Employer Organizations can best help resolve client's Benefits, Compliance, HR, and Payroll needs
Time: Friday 11:20am - 12:10pm Credits: 1 AA
We will discuss what a PEO is and how they are resource for small business. We'll get into industry trends and dive into some challenges facing small businesses today.
Presenters:
Women's Leadership Summit (*To attend the Summit, please select it for all Friday session options)
Time: Friday 11:20am - 12:10pm
Women's Leadership Summit
11:10am - 12:00pm G04: Women in Leadership Panel Discussion
Josie Par, Moderator
Raechel Canipe
Yanyn San Luis
Sara Hand
Get life lessons from women who have found their voice, paved the way, and propelled their careers to the top along with balancing life and family. The Women’s Leadership Summit presents and engaging panel with inspiring discussion with the female leaders whose experiences will illustrate how creating their personal brand can help you advance and grow your career. They’ll share stories about how they built their brands and how they became successful leaders in their industries along with helping others rise to their potential.
I WILL Attend: Keynote & Lunch: Becoming a Cherished Advisor - How to Grow and Scale Your CAS Practice
Time: Friday 12:10pm - 1:30pm Credits: 1 TB
You’re passionate about what you do, and that’s why you started or lead a client advisory practice. Combining your passion and business can be both exhilarating and a struggle.
Many accounting professionals stumble into starting an advisory practice because of what they love to do. But without the experience or a roadmap of how to build a new service line or practice that your clients can’t imagine living without for efficiency and scalability, it’s easy to hit pitfalls along the way. To become a “Cherished Advisor®”—a highly valued strategic partner whom your business clients rely on to grow and thrive—you need to have a solid business foundation yourself. It’s therefore essential to put into practice the same kind of advice you give your clients.
As a CPA, consultant, and entrepreneur, Amy will share insights and best practices from her own experience of starting and growing an advisory services practice independently and as a partner in accounting. She will also pull from her more than 10 years of advising thousands of firm leaders on growing and scaling their businesses. You will walk away with actionable tools, tips, and resources for creating and maintaining a solid, scalable
foundation for your business for years to come.
Learning Objectives:
? Identify your passion and purpose and determine how to align it with the focus of
your client advisory services practice;
? List the five stages of the Cherished Advisor® journey to building a solid foundation
that enables your practice to grow and thrive well into the future;
? Recognize how to select technology that will meet the needs of your practice and that
of the clients/vertical industries you choose to serve;
? Design an end-to-end customer experience that consistently provides the
high-quality level of service and engagement your clients rely on throughout the
entirety of your business relationship; and,
? Outline a B3 Innovation Plan with measurable
Presenters:
I WILL NOT Attend: Keynote & Lunch: Becoming a Cherished Advisor - How to Grow and Scale Your CAS Practice
Time: Friday 12:10pm - 1:30pm
I would like to claim CLE Credit for this conference for an additional fee $50
Time: Friday 5:00pm - 5:30pm
Objectives:
- Meet biennial ethics requirements
- Explore top employee benefits issues
- Learn the latest on state tax
- Discuss hot topics impacting the profession
- Hear what's new in A & A
Presenters:
-
J. Edward Grossman, CPA, CFE, CMA, CGMA
Ed is a principal with CliftonLarsonAllen having over 30 years of experience in public accounting. Based in Lakeland, Florida, Ed is a member of the firm's National Assurance Technical Group. His primary responsibilities include being a technical resource for the audit and assurance practice and performing quality reviews of assurance and accounting engagements.Practice experience has included...
Read more about J. Edward Grossman here -
Amy Elizabeth Vetter, CPA.CITP
Amy Vetter, CPA, CITP, is the CPA Programs Leader for Intacct Corporation responsible for leading the CPA/BPO Partners nationally, collaborating with CPA2Biz and working with Intacct BPO CPA Firms to help them grow their Outsourced Accounting Services Practices. Prior to Intacct, she was an Intuit Key Account Manager responsible Intuit's Major Accounts and Creator/Facilitator for the Intuit...
Read more about Amy Elizabeth Vetter here -
Brett Cooper, ABV, ASA
Brett Cooper is Director, Valuation and Advisory Services, Rivero, Gordimer & Co., PA. in Tampa. FL. He received a BS degree in accounting from FSU and his background includes two basic skill sets; valuation and forensic accounting, which have lead him to providing services in the consulting areas of valuation of business and business interest, intangible asset valuation, economic damage...
Read more about Brett Cooper here -
David Bergstein, CPA, CITP, CGMA
David Bergstein is the Chief Innovation Officer for Bergstein CPA. David has been a practicing accountant since 1966. Prior to establishing his own firm, David belonged to Intuit's Accountant Segment and is a thought-leader in technology issues. Accounting Today listed him as one of their Top 100 Most Influential People within the accounting profession in both 2015 and 2017. Val Steed, CEO at...
Read more about David Bergstein here -
Karen Ann Lake, CPA
Karen Lake CPA is Associate Director of Tax Services at Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors and Accountants. For nearly 20 years, Karen has placed her focus on helping businesses and individuals develop their tax structures. Through reducing their state tax risk, improving cash flow and obtaining federal and state credits and incentives, Karen is successful at resolving tax controversies in a...
Read more about Karen Ann Lake here -
Lisa R Parker, CPA
Lisa Parker is a senior project manager with the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). Prior to joining the GASB in 2008, Lisa worked for Runyon Kersteen Ouellette CPAs for 10 years, the town of Old Orchard Beach, Maine as finance director and interim town manager for 2 years, and the city of Saco, Maine as finance director for 8 years.Lisa is a certified public accountant and a...
Read more about Lisa R Parker here -
James Holland Sutton Jr, CPA, LLM, Esq.
James concentrates in the area of Florida tax matters, with an almost exclusive focus on Florida Sales and Use Tax. Mr. Sutton has 25+ years of experience working in Federal tax as well as State and Local Tax ("SALT"), including at a "Big 5" CPA firm and a tax consulting firm handling a wide variety of state tax planning and consulting work for Fortune 1,000 companies. Since 2001, Mr. Sutton has...
Read more about James Holland Sutton Jr here -
Christophe Réglat
Christophe Réglat is President and CEO of Coaxis International, Inc. He founded Coaxis, a Florida corporation, based in Tallahassee, in 2002. Coaxis originated as an application service provider (ASP), offering businesses access over the Internet to applications and related services that would otherwise have to be located on their own business computers. ASP has evolved to cloud computing, and...
Read more about Christophe Réglat here -
Paul N Brown, CPA, CGMA
Paul Brown joined the FICPA in November 1992 and is the Director of Technical Services for the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA). One of Paul's main duties is to serve as the technical reviewer in Florida for the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Peer Review Program. The program administers approximately 350 reviews annually in Florida and oversees approximately 90 peer...
Read more about Paul N Brown here -
Jennifer Jankowski Green, CAE
Jennifer Green is President and owner of Liberty Partners of Tallahassee, LLC and founded the firm in early 2007 with former U.S. Senator Connie Mack. With over 24 years of experience in political, lobbying and grassroots activities in the State of Florida she consults primarily on state Legislative and Executive branch issues affecting corporations, trade associations, local governments and not...
Read more about Jennifer Jankowski Green here -
Kevin John Herzberg, CGMA,CPA,MBA
Kevin is Grant Thornton's National Indirect Tax Leader. He has over 29 years of broad-based state tax experience including abandoned and unclaimed property and multi-state tax planning, Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 review, ASC 740 tax accounting, mergers and acquisitions, ruling requests, tax controversy and tax compliance. Prior to joining Grant Thornton, Kevin's experience at large international...
Read more about Kevin John Herzberg here -
Peter Charles Golotko, CPA, PFS, MBA
Peter has dedicated his career to helping people achieve financial independence, helping businesses and business owners reach and exceed their goals, and helping charitable institutions protect and make the best possible use of their resources. With over 25 years of experience in investing, financial planning, accounting, and taxation, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the...
Read more about Peter Charles Golotko here -
Jordan M Goodman, JD, Esq., CPA
Jordan M. Goodman co-chairs Horwood Marcus & Berk's State and Local Tax Group and resolves state and local tax controversies including unclaimed property for multistate and multinational corporations, including Fortune 1000 clients with complex operations, in industries such as manufacturing, retailing, financial services, e-tailing, broadcasting and telecommunications. As both an attorney and a...
Read more about Jordan M Goodman here -
Chris Oatis, CPA
Chris has over eighteen years of experience in public accounting, with over sixteen years of State and Local Tax focus. He joined Grant Thornton in November 2005. Chris has experience in numerous State and Local Tax service areas, including: income and franchise tax compliance for complex business structures with multiple legal entity types, business expansion consulting, legal entity...
Read more about Chris Oatis here -
Adam K Raschke
Adam is a Managing Director in KPMG's State and Local Tax and leads the Florida Indirect Tax practice based in Tampa, Florida. Adam has extensive experience with complex multi-state and multi-national indirect tax matters, specifically focusing on indirect tax controversy, compliance review, automation, data analytics, planning, structuring, audit defense, refund reviews, and mergers and...
Read more about Adam K Raschke here -
H. French Brown IV, Esq.
French Brown offers clients more than fourteen years of experience practicing law and lobbying in the area of state and local taxation. French specializes in all Florida taxes including sales tax, corporate income tax, motor fuels tax, communications services tax, property tax, and documentary stamp tax.French began his legal career at the Florida Department of Revenue, quickly rising to the...
Read more about H. French Brown IV here -
Melissa Lynne Ruiz
DirectorGrantThornton LLPBased in South Florida, Melissa has over 10 years of experience in public accounting with Grant Thornton in the state income and franchise tax field.Melissa serves several mid-sized and large business clients in federal and multi-state taxes, specializing in income and franchise. Her experiences include assisting taxpayers with the development and design of effective state...
Read more about Melissa Lynne Ruiz here -
Gwen Mazzola, CPA
Gwen serves as the leader of HoganTaylor's Employee Benefit Plan (EBP) practice, one of the largest in the Oklahoma/Arkansas region. 100% of Gwen's professional efforts are devoted to working within the EBP industry. Gwen has over 20 years of experience in public accounting, specializing in audits of EBPs. She is experienced in working with various retirement plans of all sizes. Gwen is a...
Read more about Gwen Mazzola here -
Jodi Malis, CPA, CGMA
Jodi is a Partner in Hancock Askew’s Atlanta office and has over 35 years of public accounting experience. Jodi began her career in Chicago at Price Waterhouse after graduating from Indiana University, with highest distinction, with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. In her role, she oversees assurance and advisory services for numerous public and private companies and manages the firm’s...
Read more about Jodi Malis here -
Aaron Fell
Aaron is a seasoned practitioner focused on serving clients within the State and Local Tax practice as well as the Tax Digital Consulting practice. Prior to joining Grant Thornton, Aaron worked at the Florida Dept. of Revenue as an indirect tax auditor for five years. Aaron has over ten years of SALT indirect tax experience both in the private and public sector. His tax audit background includes...
Read more about Aaron Fell here -
Bret Hamlin
ShareholderHill Ward & HendersonBret is a Shareholder in the firm’s Executive Compensation & Employee Benefits Group. He practices primarily in the areas of employee benefits, deferred compensation and trusts. Prior to entering the private practice of law, he provided plan design and consulting, third-party administration and investment, as well as retirement plan education services for clients...
Read more about Bret Hamlin here -
John Burgess, CPA, LLM (Tax), Esq.
John Burgess is an attorney and CPA with Jackson Lewis in Tampa who helps business owners, executives, and other senior managers with all of their employee benefits. He advises employee benefit plan committees, including 401(k) plan committees, on their fiduciary responsibilities and best practices. He has worked with plans of all sizes, ranging from those sponsored by small, local companies with...
Read more about John Burgess here -
Julian D Dozier, ABV, CFF, CPA
Julian has practiced public accounting continuously for approximately 11 years. His experience includes auditing, consulting, and providing forensic accounting and valuation services to entities across a number of industries. Representative clients served include a wide range of litigants; professional service, construction, insurance, and manufacturing firms; not-for-profit entities; and...
Read more about Julian D Dozier here -
Joyce Chastain
With many years of senior-level human resources experience in the private sector environment, Joyce Chastain brings practical know-how to each engagement. As a human resources consultant with The Krizner Group, she specializes in talent development, employee relations, internal investigations, employment law compliance, and affirmative action plans. She is a frequent guest speaker for professional...
Read more about Joyce Chastain here -
Joseph Calvin Moffa, Esq.
Joe Moffa is the founder and managing shareholder of the firm. Joe Moffa concentrates in the area of state taxation and has been a licensed Certified Public Accountant since 1982 and a licensed member of the Florida Bar since 1984. Prior to practicing law, Mr. Moffa worked with Deloitte and Touche for over 10 years, the last 4 years of which he led the firm's Florida State And Local Tax (SALT)...
Read more about Joseph Calvin Moffa here -
Daniel James O'Keefe, CPA, CFE, MBA
Daniel J. O'Keefe, CPA, CFE, MBA Orlando Office Managing Shareholder Moore Stephens Lovelace CPAs & Advisors Dan O'Keefe is the Orlando Office Managing Shareholder and heads up the Governmental Practice Group of Moore Stephens Lovelace, P.A. He also serves on the Board of Directors, is the Corporate Secretary for the Firm, and is the Dean of MSL University. He has over 35 years of public...
Read more about Daniel James O'Keefe here -
Brian Howsare, JD
Manager, Indirect Tax ServicesGrant Thornton Experience:Brian is a state and local tax attorney specializing in indirect taxation, including sales and use tax, gross receipts tax, and VAT. Brian has extensive experience in sales and use tax audit controversy, crafting numerous successful petitions and protests for administrative hearings and lower level appeals. Brian’s experience also includes...
Read more about Brian Howsare here -
Steven Mark Platau, CPA, MAcc, Esq.
Steve Platau is Professor of Accounting where he has served in the faculty since 1984. His works have been published in the Journal of Accountancy, Practical Accountant, CPA Journal, Real Estate Review, The Practicing CPA, Employee Benefits Journal and Florida CPA Today among others. Steve is a principal consultant to the CNA Insurance Companies providing loss control programs to CPA firms...
Read more about Steven Mark Platau here -
Belinda Watson
Belinda Watson has been with the Department of Revenue for 25 years and currently works as the Senior Tax Audit Administrator for the Central Region. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from North Carolina A&T State University and completed graduate studies certifications in Public Administration and Non-Profit Management from the University of Central Florida. As an advocate for children...
Read more about Belinda Watson here -
Mark Hamilton
Mark S. Hamilton was born and raised along the eastern portion of the state in Fort Pierce, Florida. After graduating from Florida State University in 1992 with Bachelors of Science degrees in Finance and Economics, he earned his law degree from Stetson University College of Law in 1995. While there, he was a member of the Stetson Trial team which participated in the National Criminal Justice...
Read more about Mark Hamilton here -
Joshua James Shilts, CPA, ABV, CFF, CGMA, CPE
Joshua Shilts is president of Shilts CPA, PLLC. Mr. Shilts' practice is focused on assisting attorneys, individuals and businesses with complex financial matters and disputes. He has held roles with international consulting and public accounting firms in Miami and New York City as well as positions with large public organizations. Mr. Shilts is a frequent lecturer on a variety of forensic...
Read more about Joshua James Shilts here -
Robert Albertini
Robert is an Account Manager for Aon Insurance Services, specializing in insurance products designed for financial professionals. He carries twenty-two years of industry experience and has worked extensively in professional liability insurance for professional services firms. Robert is the product lead on Professional Liability, Cyber Insurance, Management Liability, and Employment Practices...
Read more about Robert Albertini here -
Kristin Ashley Bivona, CPA, MBA
Kristin Bivona, CPA, MBA is the Managing Partner for GellerRagans, Central Florida's oldest accounting firm. For nearly 20 years, Kristin has been working with closely held businesses in the Central Florida area providing accounting, advisory and taxation services. Her primary focus areas include: medical companies, professional service companies, employee benefit plans and wholesale and retail...
Read more about Kristin Ashley Bivona here -
Matthew M Chancey, CFP
Read more about Matthew M Chancey here -
Jesus Socorro
Read more about Jesus Socorro here -
Rachel E Fisch, ABV,CPA
Ms. Fisch brings over twenty years of intensive business valuation, consulting, and forensic accounting experience to the RealAdvice team. She has been recognized as an expert in numerous court jurisdictions for her analytical and valuation skills. During this time, hundreds of clients have repeatedly relied on Ms. Fisch for strategic business advice. She has provided consulting services in both...
Read more about Rachel E Fisch here -
Shawn J McCabe, MSA, MBA, CFP
After serving 10 years of active military service and completing a combat tour in Afghanistan, Shawn started his career in financial planning and investments in 2007. Joining the industry at the beginning of the "Great Recession" allowed him to quickly learn that the stock market can be unpredictably cruel, and at the same time, extremely rewarding to those who stayed the course. Also, during that...
Read more about Shawn J McCabe here -
Val Steed
Val Steed, CPA, CITP is Director of Accountants at business application maker Zoho Corp. where he is responsible for maintaining industry relationships with national and international accounting organizations and top accounting experts. He is known for his 30 years in leadership at K2 Enterprises, where he also oversaw CPE and consulting for the profession.
Read more about Val Steed here -
Shelly Weir
Shelly Weir is President & Chief Executive Officer of the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA), the statewide professional association for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Florida. In this role, Weir serves as Secretary-Treasurer of the FICPA and FICPA Scholarship Foundation and works in partnership with the FICPA Council to develop and execute the Institute's strategic vision. Weir leads a...
Read more about Shelly Weir here -
Linda Lucarelli, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
I am a native of Central Florida and is a graduate of University of Central Florida with a BA in Psychology and received a Master of Science in Personnel Psychology from Florida Tech in Melbourne, Florida.I worked for Time Warner Communications (now Spectrum) for 5 years as a Sr. HR Manager where my duties were to manage the HR function for 400 + employees and 75 + supervisors and managers.I...
Read more about Linda Lucarelli here -
Joshua Seth O'Hara
Seth is a Partner in Grant Thornton's State and Local Tax group and leads the Sales & Use Tax Outsourcing Practice. With over sixteen years of state and local tax experience, Seth blends his knowledge of indirect tax compliance with his tax automation background to provide best-in-class services to clients. When working with clients, he focuses on how solutions impact the entire indirect tax...
Read more about Joshua Seth O'Hara here -
David T. Yu
David T. Yu is the president, founder, and wealth advisor of DTY Wealth Planning Solutions with over 16 years in the financial services industry. DTY Wealth Planning Solutions is an independent, holistic financial planning firm that strives to serve our clients with the highest level of ethics and integrity. We advise our clients as fiduciaries to help them reach their overall financial...
Read more about David T. Yu here -
Ian Williams
Ian Williams is a Director for KBKG, specializing in Research & Development and employment tax credits. Ian spent eleven years at a Big Four accounting firm specializing in R&D tax credits and fixed asset studies across a variety of industries. He has extensive experience in software, heavy manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and consumer products industries, as well as defending credit claims...
Read more about Ian Williams here -
Jonathan Tucker, MAcc, CPA
Based in Atlanta, GA, Jon has over 17 years of experience providing federal business tax advisory services to clients in various industries including technology, manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, retail and consumer products, hospitality, media and entertainment, financial, and other professional services industries.Prior to joining KBKG to lead the southeast region, Jon spent four years...
Read more about Jonathan Tucker here -
John Dohn
John began his insurance career following graduation from South Dakota State University with a degree in Economics. He specialized in insurance and risk management for hundreds of healthcare related companies. His success with new business development includes building new territories from scratch and turning around unprofitable territoriesby implementing practical Risk Management strategies...
Read more about John Dohn here -
Charles Russell King, CPA, CFE, CIA, CMA
Charles King is Managing Director in KPMG's Advisory Services practice. He is passionate about improving business outcomes through the practical use of technology and next generation approaches. He has used several leadership positions at KPMG and in industry to help large, complex organizations implement business intelligence programs, process automation, and advanced analytics solutions from...
Read more about Charles Russell King here -
Bruce A. Johnson, CEM, CRE, MBA
As a founding partner at Capstan Tax Strategies, Bruce works closely with commercial real estate owners, investors, and accounting firms to provide practical, creative and client-specific solutions. Bruce is well-versed in engineering-based tax strategies, guiding clients through the long-established benefits of cost segregation while introducing newer opportunities now possible under current...
Read more about Bruce A. Johnson here -
Charles Wallace
Read more about Charles Wallace here -
Luke Lucas
Luke Lucas focuses his practice on state and local tax compliance and consulting services for individuals and businesses across various industries. His experience as a state and local tax (SALT) specialist helps clients across the country navigate the entire spectrum of direct and indirect taxes imposed by state and local jurisdictions.
Read more about Luke Lucas here -
Jeff Meigs
Read more about Jeff Meigs here -
Brian Leitner
Designations and LicensesHe is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and a Chartered Financial Consultant.Experience and EducationIn his current position, Brian is responsible for a variety of strategic growth initiatives for both Mariner Wealth Advisors and Mariner Platform Solutions. In addition, Brian works closely with teams across the country to raise awareness of the firm’s resources...
Read more about Brian Leitner here -
Thomas Ruggie, ChFC, CFP
With 30 years of experience providing wealth management to entrepreneurial and innovative individuals, families and foundations, Tom understands the unique challenges they face — and how to address them. In 2016, he founded Destiny Family Office, a Destiny Wealth Partners Firm, to provide the highest level of personalized attention, expert guidance, comprehensive services and advanced technologies...
Read more about Thomas Ruggie here -
Mark H Taylor
Read more about Mark H Taylor here -
Atticus Lee Frank, CFA, ABV
Atticus Frank is a vice president with Mercer Capital. Atticus has valuation experience in engagements related to corporate planning and reorganizations, financial reporting, transaction advisory, litigation support, employee stock ownership plans, and estate and gift tax planning. As a member of Mercer Capital's Family Business Advisory Services Group, Atticus provides financial education...
Read more about Atticus Lee Frank here -
Susan Hicks
Sue is a Senior Manager with the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants Employee Benefit Plan Audit Quality Center (EBPAQC). In her role, she supports the EBPAQC Executive Committee, coordinates Center activities, and develops webcasts, tools and resources for member firms. She also liaises with the Department of Labor and standard setters on issues affecting employee...
Read more about Susan Hicks here -
Stephan George
Read more about Stephan George here -
Karyn Calabrese
Special Agent Karyn Calabrese has been with the IRS for over 17 years, most of her time with the Criminal Investigation Division. She has accounting and finance degrees from Florida State University and a MBA from Florida Atlantic University. As a Special Agent, she has worked on hundreds of criminal investigations, including, tax evasion, tax preparer fraud, identity theft, PPP loan fraud, money...
Read more about Karyn Calabrese here -
Sunshine Chapman
Read more about Sunshine Chapman here -
Ray Gandy
Ray is a Director and Leader of the IT Risk & Assurance Practice at CBIZ & MHM New England (formerly CBIZ Tofias). His IT leadership expertise encompasses the areas of security & controls, strategy, infrastructure, applications, and finance. Ray's experience includes developing and implementing strategic plans, executing large-scale integrations, improving operations, optimizing quality...
Read more about Ray Gandy here -
Amy O'Connor
Amy O'Connor is the Vice President, Stakeholder Engagement and Communications at the Center for Audit Quality. In this role, she oversees and implements the CAQ's strategy regarding external and internal communications, design, marketing, and outreach to capital markets stakeholders including investors, public company audit committees, issuers, and others.O'Connor's experience includes founding...
Read more about Amy O'Connor here -
Ellen J. Glazerman
Ellen is the Executive Director of the EY Foundation and Director of University Relations, EY Americas. In addition, she supports a variety of initiatives within the Office of Public Policy. Formerly, Ellen was the EY Americas Director of Campus Recruiting. She is also an Executive Coach who focuses on transition.Ellen is the past Chair and current member of the Board of Directors for the Graduate...
Read more about Ellen J. Glazerman here -
Stephen King, MAI MRICS
Mr. King has served as a Special Magistrate for the Orange County Value Adjustment Board (VAB) for over 10 years. One of the primary reasons the VAB was created by State law was to provide citizens a forum to address complaints regarding the Property Appraiser's assessment/valuation of property. In his capacity as a Special Magistrate, he conducted hundreds of quasi-judicial hearings and made...
Read more about Stephen King here -
Todd Jones, MBA, MAI, AI-GRS, CRE, FRICS
Since 1985, Mr. Jones has provided complex income-producing commercial property valuation, expert testimony, litigation support, ad valorem property tax counseling and representation, appraisal review, investment advice, marketability analysis, and feasibility analysis, including highest and best use analysis for virtually all types of commercial, industrial, residential, and special purpose real...
Read more about Todd Jones here -
Philip Justin Burns, CPA, CFE
Justin is Managing Partner of Space Coast Forensics. He has been a Certified Public Accountant since 2014 and a Certified Fraud Examiner since 2016. His experience in the accounting industry is diverse, spanning a wide range of roles. Justin was the controller of a private company and has worked in public accounting. He served as the director of operations for one of the nation's top privately...
Read more about Philip Justin Burns here -
Lauren Kocinski
Lauren Kocinski is a Supervisory Special Agent in the Fort Myers, Florida, post of duty. She also serves as the Public Information Officer for the Tampa Field Office where she liaises with stakeholders across multiple agencies and the media. She has performed outreach through presentations, media inquiries, and television appearances.Lauren joined the Tampa Field Office as a Special Agent (SA) in...
Read more about Lauren Kocinski here -
Joseph Perera
Supervisory Special Agent Joseph Perera has been with IRS-CI since 2005. He worked complex tax and political corruption cases for most of his career and is well know in the field as a subject matter expert on those topics. Joe became a supervisor in 2020 and has lead an active group of senior Special Agents since that time. He has worked closely with new Special Agents in the Miami Field Office as...
Read more about Joseph Perera here -
Brooke Stuart
Dr. Brooke Stuart is the founder and active president of Let Go & Grow® International and a holistic doctor in private practice, where she specializes in taking a holistic approach to mental health and high performance- assisting her patients in unlocking their own, intrinsic power to heal. Over the past twelve years, Dr. Stuart has worked with thousands of people through her online platform...
Read more about Brooke Stuart here -
Erik Murphy
Read more about Erik Murphy here -
Stephen MacNeil
Read more about Stephen MacNeil here -
George Cassiere, ASA, CFA
George is an accredited Senior Appraiser, holding an MBA degree from the University of Virginia and a B.S. in Finance with honors from Florida State University. George has been published in numerous publications and speaks frequently to professional organizations. George has over 3 decades of corporate finance and ESOP experience and over this time he has been part of hundreds of successful...
Read more about George Cassiere here -
Michele D'Antonio
Professional Experience? Nearly 30 years of dealership accounting experience.? Experience includes Red Flag and Graham Leach Bliley (Privacy Act) ComplianceTraining, manufacturer reporting, dealership management systems, mergers andacquisitions, initial setup of accounting systems, including all schedules, journals andcharts of accounts.? Expertise in best practices and procedure implementation...
Read more about Michele D'Antonio here -
Aarika Friend
Aarika Friend is a Senior Project Manager at the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) leading the Joint Venture Formations and Software Costs projects. She has also been responsible for FASB projects on fair value measurement disclosures, implementing revenue from contracts with customers, simplifying the equity method of accounting, intangible assets, and distinguishing liabilities from...
Read more about Aarika Friend here -
Max Goldstein
Read more about Max Goldstein here -
Ivelices Thomas
Read more about Ivelices Thomas here -
Kevin Guthrie
Kevin Guthrie has more than 30 years of experience in Public Safety and Emergency Management in the state of Florida, including 14 years of experience dedicated to emergency management. He spent 23 years as a Police Officer and Emergency Preparedness Coordinator with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. He served as the Public Safety and Emergency Management Director for the Flagler County Board of...
Read more about Kevin Guthrie here -
Jon Gretah
Read more about Jon Gretah here -
Conor House
Read more about Conor House here -
Eric Maybaum
Read more about Eric Maybaum here
Presenters:
J. Edward Grossman, CPA, CFE, CMA, CGMA
Ed is a principal with CliftonLarsonAllen having over 30 years of experience in public accounting. Based in Lakeland, Florida, Ed is a member of the firm's National Assurance Technical Group. His primary responsibilities include being a technical resource for the audit and assurance practice and performing quality reviews of assurance and accounting engagements.Practice experience has included...Read more about J. Edward Grossman hereAmy Elizabeth Vetter, CPA.CITP
Amy Vetter, CPA, CITP, is the CPA Programs Leader for Intacct Corporation responsible for leading the CPA/BPO Partners nationally, collaborating with CPA2Biz and working with Intacct BPO CPA Firms to help them grow their Outsourced Accounting Services Practices. Prior to Intacct, she was an Intuit Key Account Manager responsible Intuit's Major Accounts and Creator/Facilitator for the Intuit...Read more about Amy Elizabeth Vetter hereBrett Cooper, ABV, ASA
Brett Cooper is Director, Valuation and Advisory Services, Rivero, Gordimer & Co., PA. in Tampa. FL. He received a BS degree in accounting from FSU and his background includes two basic skill sets; valuation and forensic accounting, which have lead him to providing services in the consulting areas of valuation of business and business interest, intangible asset valuation, economic damage...Read more about Brett Cooper hereDavid Bergstein, CPA, CITP, CGMA
David Bergstein is the Chief Innovation Officer for Bergstein CPA. David has been a practicing accountant since 1966. Prior to establishing his own firm, David belonged to Intuit's Accountant Segment and is a thought-leader in technology issues. Accounting Today listed him as one of their Top 100 Most Influential People within the accounting profession in both 2015 and 2017. Val Steed, CEO at...Read more about David Bergstein hereKaren Ann Lake, CPA
Karen Lake CPA is Associate Director of Tax Services at Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors and Accountants. For nearly 20 years, Karen has placed her focus on helping businesses and individuals develop their tax structures. Through reducing their state tax risk, improving cash flow and obtaining federal and state credits and incentives, Karen is successful at resolving tax controversies in a...Read more about Karen Ann Lake hereLisa R Parker, CPA
Lisa Parker is a senior project manager with the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). Prior to joining the GASB in 2008, Lisa worked for Runyon Kersteen Ouellette CPAs for 10 years, the town of Old Orchard Beach, Maine as finance director and interim town manager for 2 years, and the city of Saco, Maine as finance director for 8 years.Lisa is a certified public accountant and a...Read more about Lisa R Parker hereJames Holland Sutton Jr, CPA, LLM, Esq.
James concentrates in the area of Florida tax matters, with an almost exclusive focus on Florida Sales and Use Tax. Mr. Sutton has 25+ years of experience working in Federal tax as well as State and Local Tax ("SALT"), including at a "Big 5" CPA firm and a tax consulting firm handling a wide variety of state tax planning and consulting work for Fortune 1,000 companies. Since 2001, Mr. Sutton has...Read more about James Holland Sutton Jr hereChristophe Réglat
Christophe Réglat is President and CEO of Coaxis International, Inc. He founded Coaxis, a Florida corporation, based in Tallahassee, in 2002. Coaxis originated as an application service provider (ASP), offering businesses access over the Internet to applications and related services that would otherwise have to be located on their own business computers. ASP has evolved to cloud computing, and...Read more about Christophe Réglat herePaul N Brown, CPA, CGMA
Paul Brown joined the FICPA in November 1992 and is the Director of Technical Services for the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA). One of Paul's main duties is to serve as the technical reviewer in Florida for the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Peer Review Program. The program administers approximately 350 reviews annually in Florida and oversees approximately 90 peer...Read more about Paul N Brown hereJennifer Jankowski Green, CAE
Jennifer Green is President and owner of Liberty Partners of Tallahassee, LLC and founded the firm in early 2007 with former U.S. Senator Connie Mack. With over 24 years of experience in political, lobbying and grassroots activities in the State of Florida she consults primarily on state Legislative and Executive branch issues affecting corporations, trade associations, local governments and not...Read more about Jennifer Jankowski Green hereKevin John Herzberg, CGMA,CPA,MBA
Kevin is Grant Thornton's National Indirect Tax Leader. He has over 29 years of broad-based state tax experience including abandoned and unclaimed property and multi-state tax planning, Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 review, ASC 740 tax accounting, mergers and acquisitions, ruling requests, tax controversy and tax compliance. Prior to joining Grant Thornton, Kevin's experience at large international...Read more about Kevin John Herzberg herePeter Charles Golotko, CPA, PFS, MBA
Peter has dedicated his career to helping people achieve financial independence, helping businesses and business owners reach and exceed their goals, and helping charitable institutions protect and make the best possible use of their resources. With over 25 years of experience in investing, financial planning, accounting, and taxation, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the...Read more about Peter Charles Golotko hereJordan M Goodman, JD, Esq., CPA
Jordan M. Goodman co-chairs Horwood Marcus & Berk's State and Local Tax Group and resolves state and local tax controversies including unclaimed property for multistate and multinational corporations, including Fortune 1000 clients with complex operations, in industries such as manufacturing, retailing, financial services, e-tailing, broadcasting and telecommunications. As both an attorney and a...Read more about Jordan M Goodman hereChris Oatis, CPA
Chris has over eighteen years of experience in public accounting, with over sixteen years of State and Local Tax focus. He joined Grant Thornton in November 2005. Chris has experience in numerous State and Local Tax service areas, including: income and franchise tax compliance for complex business structures with multiple legal entity types, business expansion consulting, legal entity...Read more about Chris Oatis hereAdam K Raschke
Adam is a Managing Director in KPMG's State and Local Tax and leads the Florida Indirect Tax practice based in Tampa, Florida. Adam has extensive experience with complex multi-state and multi-national indirect tax matters, specifically focusing on indirect tax controversy, compliance review, automation, data analytics, planning, structuring, audit defense, refund reviews, and mergers and...Read more about Adam K Raschke hereH. French Brown IV, Esq.
French Brown offers clients more than fourteen years of experience practicing law and lobbying in the area of state and local taxation. French specializes in all Florida taxes including sales tax, corporate income tax, motor fuels tax, communications services tax, property tax, and documentary stamp tax.French began his legal career at the Florida Department of Revenue, quickly rising to the...Read more about H. French Brown IV hereMelissa Lynne Ruiz
DirectorGrantThornton LLPBased in South Florida, Melissa has over 10 years of experience in public accounting with Grant Thornton in the state income and franchise tax field.Melissa serves several mid-sized and large business clients in federal and multi-state taxes, specializing in income and franchise. Her experiences include assisting taxpayers with the development and design of effective state...Read more about Melissa Lynne Ruiz hereGwen Mazzola, CPA
Gwen serves as the leader of HoganTaylor's Employee Benefit Plan (EBP) practice, one of the largest in the Oklahoma/Arkansas region. 100% of Gwen's professional efforts are devoted to working within the EBP industry. Gwen has over 20 years of experience in public accounting, specializing in audits of EBPs. She is experienced in working with various retirement plans of all sizes. Gwen is a...Read more about Gwen Mazzola hereJodi Malis, CPA, CGMA
Jodi is a Partner in Hancock Askew’s Atlanta office and has over 35 years of public accounting experience. Jodi began her career in Chicago at Price Waterhouse after graduating from Indiana University, with highest distinction, with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. In her role, she oversees assurance and advisory services for numerous public and private companies and manages the firm’s...Read more about Jodi Malis hereAaron Fell
Aaron is a seasoned practitioner focused on serving clients within the State and Local Tax practice as well as the Tax Digital Consulting practice. Prior to joining Grant Thornton, Aaron worked at the Florida Dept. of Revenue as an indirect tax auditor for five years. Aaron has over ten years of SALT indirect tax experience both in the private and public sector. His tax audit background includes...Read more about Aaron Fell hereBret Hamlin
ShareholderHill Ward & HendersonBret is a Shareholder in the firm’s Executive Compensation & Employee Benefits Group. He practices primarily in the areas of employee benefits, deferred compensation and trusts. Prior to entering the private practice of law, he provided plan design and consulting, third-party administration and investment, as well as retirement plan education services for clients...Read more about Bret Hamlin hereJohn Burgess, CPA, LLM (Tax), Esq.
John Burgess is an attorney and CPA with Jackson Lewis in Tampa who helps business owners, executives, and other senior managers with all of their employee benefits. He advises employee benefit plan committees, including 401(k) plan committees, on their fiduciary responsibilities and best practices. He has worked with plans of all sizes, ranging from those sponsored by small, local companies with...Read more about John Burgess hereJulian D Dozier, ABV, CFF, CPA
Julian has practiced public accounting continuously for approximately 11 years. His experience includes auditing, consulting, and providing forensic accounting and valuation services to entities across a number of industries. Representative clients served include a wide range of litigants; professional service, construction, insurance, and manufacturing firms; not-for-profit entities; and...Read more about Julian D Dozier hereJoyce Chastain
With many years of senior-level human resources experience in the private sector environment, Joyce Chastain brings practical know-how to each engagement. As a human resources consultant with The Krizner Group, she specializes in talent development, employee relations, internal investigations, employment law compliance, and affirmative action plans. She is a frequent guest speaker for professional...Read more about Joyce Chastain hereJoseph Calvin Moffa, Esq.
Joe Moffa is the founder and managing shareholder of the firm. Joe Moffa concentrates in the area of state taxation and has been a licensed Certified Public Accountant since 1982 and a licensed member of the Florida Bar since 1984. Prior to practicing law, Mr. Moffa worked with Deloitte and Touche for over 10 years, the last 4 years of which he led the firm's Florida State And Local Tax (SALT)...Read more about Joseph Calvin Moffa hereDaniel James O'Keefe, CPA, CFE, MBA
Daniel J. O'Keefe, CPA, CFE, MBA Orlando Office Managing Shareholder Moore Stephens Lovelace CPAs & Advisors Dan O'Keefe is the Orlando Office Managing Shareholder and heads up the Governmental Practice Group of Moore Stephens Lovelace, P.A. He also serves on the Board of Directors, is the Corporate Secretary for the Firm, and is the Dean of MSL University. He has over 35 years of public...Read more about Daniel James O'Keefe hereBrian Howsare, JD
Manager, Indirect Tax ServicesGrant Thornton Experience:Brian is a state and local tax attorney specializing in indirect taxation, including sales and use tax, gross receipts tax, and VAT. Brian has extensive experience in sales and use tax audit controversy, crafting numerous successful petitions and protests for administrative hearings and lower level appeals. Brian’s experience also includes...Read more about Brian Howsare hereSteven Mark Platau, CPA, MAcc, Esq.
Steve Platau is Professor of Accounting where he has served in the faculty since 1984. His works have been published in the Journal of Accountancy, Practical Accountant, CPA Journal, Real Estate Review, The Practicing CPA, Employee Benefits Journal and Florida CPA Today among others. Steve is a principal consultant to the CNA Insurance Companies providing loss control programs to CPA firms...Read more about Steven Mark Platau hereBelinda Watson
Belinda Watson has been with the Department of Revenue for 25 years and currently works as the Senior Tax Audit Administrator for the Central Region. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from North Carolina A&T State University and completed graduate studies certifications in Public Administration and Non-Profit Management from the University of Central Florida. As an advocate for children...Read more about Belinda Watson hereMark Hamilton
Mark S. Hamilton was born and raised along the eastern portion of the state in Fort Pierce, Florida. After graduating from Florida State University in 1992 with Bachelors of Science degrees in Finance and Economics, he earned his law degree from Stetson University College of Law in 1995. While there, he was a member of the Stetson Trial team which participated in the National Criminal Justice...Read more about Mark Hamilton hereJoshua James Shilts, CPA, ABV, CFF, CGMA, CPE
Joshua Shilts is president of Shilts CPA, PLLC. Mr. Shilts' practice is focused on assisting attorneys, individuals and businesses with complex financial matters and disputes. He has held roles with international consulting and public accounting firms in Miami and New York City as well as positions with large public organizations. Mr. Shilts is a frequent lecturer on a variety of forensic...Read more about Joshua James Shilts hereRobert Albertini
Robert is an Account Manager for Aon Insurance Services, specializing in insurance products designed for financial professionals. He carries twenty-two years of industry experience and has worked extensively in professional liability insurance for professional services firms. Robert is the product lead on Professional Liability, Cyber Insurance, Management Liability, and Employment Practices...Read more about Robert Albertini hereKristin Ashley Bivona, CPA, MBA
Kristin Bivona, CPA, MBA is the Managing Partner for GellerRagans, Central Florida's oldest accounting firm. For nearly 20 years, Kristin has been working with closely held businesses in the Central Florida area providing accounting, advisory and taxation services. Her primary focus areas include: medical companies, professional service companies, employee benefit plans and wholesale and retail...Read more about Kristin Ashley Bivona hereMatthew M Chancey, CFP
Read more about Matthew M Chancey hereJesus Socorro
Read more about Jesus Socorro hereRachel E Fisch, ABV,CPA
Ms. Fisch brings over twenty years of intensive business valuation, consulting, and forensic accounting experience to the RealAdvice team. She has been recognized as an expert in numerous court jurisdictions for her analytical and valuation skills. During this time, hundreds of clients have repeatedly relied on Ms. Fisch for strategic business advice. She has provided consulting services in both...Read more about Rachel E Fisch hereShawn J McCabe, MSA, MBA, CFP
After serving 10 years of active military service and completing a combat tour in Afghanistan, Shawn started his career in financial planning and investments in 2007. Joining the industry at the beginning of the "Great Recession" allowed him to quickly learn that the stock market can be unpredictably cruel, and at the same time, extremely rewarding to those who stayed the course. Also, during that...Read more about Shawn J McCabe hereVal Steed
Val Steed, CPA, CITP is Director of Accountants at business application maker Zoho Corp. where he is responsible for maintaining industry relationships with national and international accounting organizations and top accounting experts. He is known for his 30 years in leadership at K2 Enterprises, where he also oversaw CPE and consulting for the profession.Read more about Val Steed hereShelly Weir
Shelly Weir is President & Chief Executive Officer of the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA), the statewide professional association for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Florida. In this role, Weir serves as Secretary-Treasurer of the FICPA and FICPA Scholarship Foundation and works in partnership with the FICPA Council to develop and execute the Institute's strategic vision. Weir leads a...Read more about Shelly Weir hereLinda Lucarelli, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
I am a native of Central Florida and is a graduate of University of Central Florida with a BA in Psychology and received a Master of Science in Personnel Psychology from Florida Tech in Melbourne, Florida.I worked for Time Warner Communications (now Spectrum) for 5 years as a Sr. HR Manager where my duties were to manage the HR function for 400 + employees and 75 + supervisors and managers.I...Read more about Linda Lucarelli hereJoshua Seth O'Hara
Seth is a Partner in Grant Thornton's State and Local Tax group and leads the Sales & Use Tax Outsourcing Practice. With over sixteen years of state and local tax experience, Seth blends his knowledge of indirect tax compliance with his tax automation background to provide best-in-class services to clients. When working with clients, he focuses on how solutions impact the entire indirect tax...Read more about Joshua Seth O'Hara hereDavid T. Yu
David T. Yu is the president, founder, and wealth advisor of DTY Wealth Planning Solutions with over 16 years in the financial services industry. DTY Wealth Planning Solutions is an independent, holistic financial planning firm that strives to serve our clients with the highest level of ethics and integrity. We advise our clients as fiduciaries to help them reach their overall financial...Read more about David T. Yu hereIan Williams
Ian Williams is a Director for KBKG, specializing in Research & Development and employment tax credits. Ian spent eleven years at a Big Four accounting firm specializing in R&D tax credits and fixed asset studies across a variety of industries. He has extensive experience in software, heavy manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and consumer products industries, as well as defending credit claims...Read more about Ian Williams hereJonathan Tucker, MAcc, CPA
Based in Atlanta, GA, Jon has over 17 years of experience providing federal business tax advisory services to clients in various industries including technology, manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, retail and consumer products, hospitality, media and entertainment, financial, and other professional services industries.Prior to joining KBKG to lead the southeast region, Jon spent four years...Read more about Jonathan Tucker hereJohn Dohn
John began his insurance career following graduation from South Dakota State University with a degree in Economics. He specialized in insurance and risk management for hundreds of healthcare related companies. His success with new business development includes building new territories from scratch and turning around unprofitable territoriesby implementing practical Risk Management strategies...Read more about John Dohn hereCharles Russell King, CPA, CFE, CIA, CMA
Charles King is Managing Director in KPMG's Advisory Services practice. He is passionate about improving business outcomes through the practical use of technology and next generation approaches. He has used several leadership positions at KPMG and in industry to help large, complex organizations implement business intelligence programs, process automation, and advanced analytics solutions from...Read more about Charles Russell King hereBruce A. Johnson, CEM, CRE, MBA
As a founding partner at Capstan Tax Strategies, Bruce works closely with commercial real estate owners, investors, and accounting firms to provide practical, creative and client-specific solutions. Bruce is well-versed in engineering-based tax strategies, guiding clients through the long-established benefits of cost segregation while introducing newer opportunities now possible under current...Read more about Bruce A. Johnson hereCharles Wallace
Read more about Charles Wallace hereLuke Lucas
Luke Lucas focuses his practice on state and local tax compliance and consulting services for individuals and businesses across various industries. His experience as a state and local tax (SALT) specialist helps clients across the country navigate the entire spectrum of direct and indirect taxes imposed by state and local jurisdictions.Read more about Luke Lucas hereJeff Meigs
Read more about Jeff Meigs hereBrian Leitner
Designations and LicensesHe is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and a Chartered Financial Consultant.Experience and EducationIn his current position, Brian is responsible for a variety of strategic growth initiatives for both Mariner Wealth Advisors and Mariner Platform Solutions. In addition, Brian works closely with teams across the country to raise awareness of the firm’s resources...Read more about Brian Leitner hereThomas Ruggie, ChFC, CFP
With 30 years of experience providing wealth management to entrepreneurial and innovative individuals, families and foundations, Tom understands the unique challenges they face — and how to address them. In 2016, he founded Destiny Family Office, a Destiny Wealth Partners Firm, to provide the highest level of personalized attention, expert guidance, comprehensive services and advanced technologies...Read more about Thomas Ruggie hereMark H Taylor
Read more about Mark H Taylor hereAtticus Lee Frank, CFA, ABV
Atticus Frank is a vice president with Mercer Capital. Atticus has valuation experience in engagements related to corporate planning and reorganizations, financial reporting, transaction advisory, litigation support, employee stock ownership plans, and estate and gift tax planning. As a member of Mercer Capital's Family Business Advisory Services Group, Atticus provides financial education...Read more about Atticus Lee Frank hereSusan Hicks
Sue is a Senior Manager with the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants Employee Benefit Plan Audit Quality Center (EBPAQC). In her role, she supports the EBPAQC Executive Committee, coordinates Center activities, and develops webcasts, tools and resources for member firms. She also liaises with the Department of Labor and standard setters on issues affecting employee...Read more about Susan Hicks hereStephan George
Read more about Stephan George hereKaryn Calabrese
Special Agent Karyn Calabrese has been with the IRS for over 17 years, most of her time with the Criminal Investigation Division. She has accounting and finance degrees from Florida State University and a MBA from Florida Atlantic University. As a Special Agent, she has worked on hundreds of criminal investigations, including, tax evasion, tax preparer fraud, identity theft, PPP loan fraud, money...Read more about Karyn Calabrese hereSunshine Chapman
Read more about Sunshine Chapman hereRay Gandy
Ray is a Director and Leader of the IT Risk & Assurance Practice at CBIZ & MHM New England (formerly CBIZ Tofias). His IT leadership expertise encompasses the areas of security & controls, strategy, infrastructure, applications, and finance. Ray's experience includes developing and implementing strategic plans, executing large-scale integrations, improving operations, optimizing quality...Read more about Ray Gandy hereAmy O'Connor
Amy O'Connor is the Vice President, Stakeholder Engagement and Communications at the Center for Audit Quality. In this role, she oversees and implements the CAQ's strategy regarding external and internal communications, design, marketing, and outreach to capital markets stakeholders including investors, public company audit committees, issuers, and others.O'Connor's experience includes founding...Read more about Amy O'Connor hereEllen J. Glazerman
Ellen is the Executive Director of the EY Foundation and Director of University Relations, EY Americas. In addition, she supports a variety of initiatives within the Office of Public Policy. Formerly, Ellen was the EY Americas Director of Campus Recruiting. She is also an Executive Coach who focuses on transition.Ellen is the past Chair and current member of the Board of Directors for the Graduate...Read more about Ellen J. Glazerman hereStephen King, MAI MRICS
Mr. King has served as a Special Magistrate for the Orange County Value Adjustment Board (VAB) for over 10 years. One of the primary reasons the VAB was created by State law was to provide citizens a forum to address complaints regarding the Property Appraiser's assessment/valuation of property. In his capacity as a Special Magistrate, he conducted hundreds of quasi-judicial hearings and made...Read more about Stephen King hereTodd Jones, MBA, MAI, AI-GRS, CRE, FRICS
Since 1985, Mr. Jones has provided complex income-producing commercial property valuation, expert testimony, litigation support, ad valorem property tax counseling and representation, appraisal review, investment advice, marketability analysis, and feasibility analysis, including highest and best use analysis for virtually all types of commercial, industrial, residential, and special purpose real...Read more about Todd Jones herePhilip Justin Burns, CPA, CFE
Justin is Managing Partner of Space Coast Forensics. He has been a Certified Public Accountant since 2014 and a Certified Fraud Examiner since 2016. His experience in the accounting industry is diverse, spanning a wide range of roles. Justin was the controller of a private company and has worked in public accounting. He served as the director of operations for one of the nation's top privately...Read more about Philip Justin Burns hereLauren Kocinski
Lauren Kocinski is a Supervisory Special Agent in the Fort Myers, Florida, post of duty. She also serves as the Public Information Officer for the Tampa Field Office where she liaises with stakeholders across multiple agencies and the media. She has performed outreach through presentations, media inquiries, and television appearances.Lauren joined the Tampa Field Office as a Special Agent (SA) in...Read more about Lauren Kocinski hereJoseph Perera
Supervisory Special Agent Joseph Perera has been with IRS-CI since 2005. He worked complex tax and political corruption cases for most of his career and is well know in the field as a subject matter expert on those topics. Joe became a supervisor in 2020 and has lead an active group of senior Special Agents since that time. He has worked closely with new Special Agents in the Miami Field Office as...Read more about Joseph Perera hereBrooke Stuart
Dr. Brooke Stuart is the founder and active president of Let Go & Grow® International and a holistic doctor in private practice, where she specializes in taking a holistic approach to mental health and high performance- assisting her patients in unlocking their own, intrinsic power to heal. Over the past twelve years, Dr. Stuart has worked with thousands of people through her online platform...Read more about Brooke Stuart hereErik Murphy
Read more about Erik Murphy hereStephen MacNeil
Read more about Stephen MacNeil hereGeorge Cassiere, ASA, CFA
George is an accredited Senior Appraiser, holding an MBA degree from the University of Virginia and a B.S. in Finance with honors from Florida State University. George has been published in numerous publications and speaks frequently to professional organizations. George has over 3 decades of corporate finance and ESOP experience and over this time he has been part of hundreds of successful...Read more about George Cassiere hereMichele D'Antonio
Professional Experience? Nearly 30 years of dealership accounting experience.? Experience includes Red Flag and Graham Leach Bliley (Privacy Act) ComplianceTraining, manufacturer reporting, dealership management systems, mergers andacquisitions, initial setup of accounting systems, including all schedules, journals andcharts of accounts.? Expertise in best practices and procedure implementation...Read more about Michele D'Antonio hereAarika Friend
Aarika Friend is a Senior Project Manager at the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) leading the Joint Venture Formations and Software Costs projects. She has also been responsible for FASB projects on fair value measurement disclosures, implementing revenue from contracts with customers, simplifying the equity method of accounting, intangible assets, and distinguishing liabilities from...Read more about Aarika Friend hereMax Goldstein
Read more about Max Goldstein hereIvelices Thomas
Read more about Ivelices Thomas hereKevin Guthrie
Kevin Guthrie has more than 30 years of experience in Public Safety and Emergency Management in the state of Florida, including 14 years of experience dedicated to emergency management. He spent 23 years as a Police Officer and Emergency Preparedness Coordinator with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. He served as the Public Safety and Emergency Management Director for the Flagler County Board of...Read more about Kevin Guthrie hereJon Gretah
Read more about Jon Gretah hereConor House
Read more about Conor House hereEric Maybaum
Read more about Eric Maybaum hereMajor Topics:
- Ethics
- Employee benefits
- State tax
- Technology
- Finance
- Emerging Topics
Major Topics:
- Ethics
- Employee benefits
- State tax
- Technology
- Finance
- Emerging Topics
Designed For:
CPAs, accountants, and other finance professionals
Prerequisites:
NoneAccommodations:
Accommodations:JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa
14900 Chelonia Parkway
Orlando, FL 32821
407-919-6300
Room Rate: $279.00++ Single/Double
Hotel Cutoff Deadline: Monday, May 22, 2023
*** Upon completion of your registration for the conference, you will receive an email confirmation with additional information to book your accommodations***
(Reservations made after the cutoff date will be subject to availability and current room rate. Please note that the conference accommodation rate is subject to sell out prior to the advertised reservation cut off date.)
Related Events
Ethics: Protecting the Integrity of Florida CPAs (0004980)
CPA Personal Financial Planning Boot Camp (PFPB)
Testimonials
We love going to Mega conference because we can get a lot of hours in one conference that caters to tax and audit alike. Being in the public sector, we need both and not many institutions provide what FICPA does.
FICPA also always hosts a great location and provide excellent foods during the sessions. Plus they have great staff who stay connected to their constituents and always make us feel so welcome.
And you can quote me on that.
Michelle Hurst