South Florida Accounting Conference (SFAC)
Registration is Open
Overview:
Join the FICPA for the Premier South Florida Event
South Florida Accounting Conference
Embracing the Future
October 24 - 26, 2023
Welcome to the 2023 South Florida Accounting Conference being held at a new location, the Alan B. Levan, NSU Broward Center of Innovation. This conference is the FICPA's premier South Florida event and includes a pre-event Learning Labs, optional Ethics course, a resource center with exhibitors from various fields, and access to the most engaging and informative speakers.
This year's program features a diverse set of topics to meet the needs of CPAs. Whether you work in business and industry or client services, our speakers will help you navigate the complexities of Sales Tax, Estate Planning, Fraud, Risk Management, Cybersecurity, Employee Benefits, and so much more.
Arrive early to attend our Learning Labs on October 24th where you'll earn 4 TB credits and get to know some of our industry leaders. Then get ready for two days and 16 more credits of fast paced and informative sessions to round out your week. With three tracks and a high tech venue, you won't be left wanting more.
Thank you to our Sponsors & Exhibitors!
Invest in yourself - Benefit you, your company, and your clients!
- Two and 1/2 days of cutting-edge CPE designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills to position yourself as a trusted accounting and financial advisor
- Up to 20 hours of CPE Credit
- Meet your Accounting & Auditing requirements
- Network and socialize with Industry Peers
- Visit the Solution Center to learn about the best resources in your field
- Four hours of Ethics for Florida CPAs (4980) to meet your biennial requirements (Pre-Conference and Additional Registration Fee) To register click HERE
CPE Credit:
This conference qualifies for up to 20 hours of CPE credit and is subject to change. CPE credit is subject to approval by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. The type of credit is dependent upon breakout selection. We want you and your staff to take advantage of this great opportunity, groups of 5 or more from the same organization can register for a group discount.
- Register 5 - 7 Attendees, Receive 10% Discount
- Register 8 + Attendees, Receive 15% Discount
- Call member services at 1-800-342-3197.
Schedule:
Tuesday, October 24, 2023
I would like to claim CLE Credit for this conference for an additional fee $50
Time: Tuesday 8:00am - 8:01am
Registration
Time: Tuesday 12:30pm - 1:00pm
Learning Labs 1-14
Time: Tuesday 1:00pm - 5:00pm Credits: 4 TB
LL1: TBD, Martina Hopkins, Paychex
LL2: TBD
LL3: Wealth is a Process, Not an Event, Sean J. McCabe, CPA/PFS, CFP®, MSA, MBA, CPAlliance
LL4: Business Partnership Planning, John Dohn, MSI
LL5: The CPA as a Financial Advisor, Noah Rubin, Rubin Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors
LL6: TBD
LL7: Scoring the Win with HNW Clients, Thomas Ruggie, ChFC, CFP, Destiny Family Wealth
LL8: Retaining & Recruiting Clients by Proactive Suggestions & Solutions, Tim Cronic, Capital Square
LL9: The Great Tax Migration: Domicile Change Planning, Josh Donner & Eric Donner, Six Months and a Day LLC
LL10: TBD
LL11: Tax Mitigation Strategies for Selective Investors, Ben Carmona, Perch Wealth
LL12: TBD
LL13: TBD
LL14: TBD
Wednesday, October 25, 2023
Breakfast and Registration
Time: Wednesday 7:30am - 8:00am
State of the Accounting Profession - Technology, Talent, & Growth
Time: Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00am
South Florida Accounting Conference'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 technology landscape, talent & growth and more.
Presenters:
Understanding Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting Requirements
Time: Wednesday 9:10am - 10:00am Credits: 1 TB
The course will focus on the recently enacted Corporate Transparency Act's beneficial ownership information reporting requirements addressing issues such as who must report, when must beneficial owners report and how they would report. The Act is wide-reaching as to entities and their owners and carries significant penalty provisions for failure to timely and fully comply.
Presenters:
The CPA Talent Shortage
Time: Wednesday 9:10am - 10:00am Credits: 1 AA
The talent shortage in the CPA profession isn’t getting any better. According to a recent survey*, data show that less than 1% of firms believe they can find the talent they need. Part of the issue is less and less people graduating with accounting degrees every year and salaries are rising rapidly with firm’s reporting an average of a 14% increase. Now 77% of firm’s are considering or already employing remote talent solutions.
Jim Brady built remote talent solutions for Deloitte and Grant Thornton and now he is focused on helping U.S. middle market accounting firms like yours. Join him as he discusses the causes of the talent shortage and how your firm can solve the problem.
Presenters:
Data Analytics in Accounting
Time: Wednesday 9:10am - 10:00am Credits: 1 AA
A focus on identifying how data analytics can be used to assess financial reporting and business risk. Determine how to leverage fully population analytics for business insights. Recognizing how to view data from different angles and generate new perspectives. And provide an insight into how automation is being used to streamline audits.
Presenters:
Networking Break
Time: Wednesday 10:00am - 10:25am
ASC 840 842: Leases
Time: Wednesday 10:25am - 11:15am Credits: 1 AA
Course objectives are to identify the changes and lessons learned with the new accounting standard ASC 842 that was effective for non-public companies on January 1, 2022. The topic is important because with all new accounting standards there is a learning curve that we as accountants need to be aware of.
Presenters:
Succession & Contingency Planning Roundtable- Part 1
Time: Wednesday 10:25am - 11:15am Credits: 1 TB
As a sole practitioner or small firm leader, what would you do if you suddenly became injured, disabled, or critically ill? Who would take care of your clients temporarily or even permanently? This round table is to identify key considerations for making a sound match for contingency and succession plans for sole practitioner and small firm leaders so FICPA can support this important planning.
Presenters:
Automation and AI in Accounting
Time: Wednesday 10:25am - 11:15am
Hot Topics in SEC Reporting
Time: Wednesday 11:25am - 12:15pm Credits: 1 AA
This session will include a summary of SEC hot topics. The session will help participants stay current on important rule proposals and policy changes, comment letter trends, and other topics impacting the current regulatory landscape.
Presenters:
Succession & Contingency Planning Roundtable- Part 2
Time: Wednesday 11:25am - 12:15pm Credits: 1 TB
As a sole practitioner or small firm leader, what would you do if you suddenly became injured, disabled, or critically ill? Who would take care of your clients temporarily or even permanently? This round table is to identify key considerations for making a sound match for contingency and succession plans for sole practitioner and small firm leaders so FICPA can support this important planning.
Presenters:
Accounting Apps for Small to Midsize Firms
Time: Wednesday 11:25am - 12:15pm Credits: 1 TB
Accounting professionals must leverage transformative technologies to the benefit of clients and their own practices to remain competitive and relevant in the market. This course will help understand different available accounting application technologies and when to use them.
Presenters:
Lunch
Time: Wednesday 12:15pm - 1:15pm
Overview of Florida Sales and Use Tax plus 2023 Legislative Update
Time: Wednesday 1:15pm - 2:05pm
Participants will learn important information about Florida sales and use tax including how to register, file and pay, plus valuable resources found on the Department of Revenue’s website. The session will also include a 2023 legislative update related to Florida tax laws.
Wealth is a Process
Time: Wednesday 1:15pm - 2:05pm Credits: 1 TB
The markets have been tumultuous the last several years. Interest rates have been on the rise, markets have been volatile, government has been ever changing, and the U.S. and global economy has been the talk of headlines recently. The session will delve into a proven method for wealth creation amidst all the noise. You’ll learn about the importance of financial planning and why it’s crucial in the process of creating wealth.
Presenters:
Opportunities and Risks with ChatGPT
Time: Wednesday 1:15pm - 2:05pm Credits: 1 TB
Discussion on modern day uses/opportunities and the security and privacy challenges with ChatGPT and similar Generative Artificial Intelligence solutions.
Presenters:
Fraud Detection and Investigation
Time: Wednesday 2:15pm - 3:05pm Credits: 1 TB
This presentation will focus on the current and evolving issues of fraud within organizations. The seminar will cover types of fraud, detection methods, and analysis. Further, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be discussed.
Presenters:
Great topic coming soon!
Time: Wednesday 2:15pm - 3:05pm
Networking Break
Time: Wednesday 3:05pm - 3:30pm
GASB Update- Part 1
Time: Wednesday 3:30pm - 4:20pm Credits: 1 AA
Alan Skelton will provide an update of projects being implemented, projects issued by the Board but not yet implemented, and projects being deliberated by the Board.
Presenters:
Investing Amid an Era of Inflation
Time: Wednesday 3:30pm - 4:20pm Credits: 1 TB
As competent practitioners we rely on our experience to provide guidance and advice. With the recent expanse of inflation, our clients are seeking to understand how to navigate their world of spending on normal living expenses, major purchases of homes and autos, managing supply chains and price increases as business owners, and prudently investing retirement and personal accounts. We as practitioners are in a challenging circumstance to give advice, as most of us were not professionals during the last round if high inflation in the 1970s. This session focuses on the investment conversation, providing guidance on the mechanics and structure of investment products in relation to inflation. And describing real life solutions to use in response to inflation.
Presenters:
Digital Transformation: Key Considerations for Accounting
Time: Wednesday 3:30pm - 4:20pm
GASB Update- Part 2
Time: Wednesday 4:30pm - 5:20pm Credits: 1 AA
Alan Skelton will provide an update of projects being implemented, projects issued by the Board but not yet implemented, and projects being deliberated by the Board.
Presenters:
1031 Like-Kind Exchanges and Delaware Statutory Trusts
Time: Wednesday 4:30pm - 5:20pm Credits: 1 TB
IRS guidelines for 1031 exchanges, potential benefits of completing an exchange, tax examples and mitigation strategies, today’s real estate environment and how it may impact exchanges, and Delaware Statutory Trusts as a possible hassle-free replacement property option.
Presenters:
Another Great Topic Coming Soon
Time: Wednesday 4:30pm - 5:20pm
Thursday, October 26, 2023
Breakfast and Registration
Time: Thursday 7:30am - 8:00am
Economic Update
Time: Thursday 8:00am - 9:00am Credits: 1 TB
Course will present J.P.Morgan's economic outlook. It will include comments on the macroeconomy, interest rates, inflation and other economic trends.
Presenters:
Florida Legislative Update
Time: Thursday 9:10am - 10:00am Credits: 1 AA
Each year, thousands of bills are filed in the Florida Legislature, many of them with direct or indirect impacts to CPAs and the profession. This update will provide an overview of some of the major actions impacting CPAs in the 2023 Legislative Session. It will also go into more detail on what to expect in the 2024 Legislative Session. What are the major issues on the horizon and the legislative leaders you need to know. The update will also discuss overall legislative and political trends in the state of Florida.
Presenters:
Inter Vivos QTIP Trust and SLAT Planning for Reduction of Basic Exclusion Amount Effective January 1, 2026, 2021-2023 Legislative Updates, and Draftin
Time: Thursday 9:10am - 10:00am Credits: 1 TB
A focus on specific legislative developments relevant to practitioners and advisors, an asset protection update, timing of inter family gifts, and drafting considerations for high-net-worth clients.
Presenters:
The FTC’s Safeguards Rule Just Got Stronger. Are You Ready? A Case Study in Cybersecurity Preparedness
Time: Thursday 9:10am - 10:00am Credits: 1 TB
The FTC recently amended the Safeguards Rule driving stronger regulations – most of which took effect on June 9, 2023 – requiring covered financial institutions to develop, implement and maintain an information security program with administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect customer information. It defines a "financial institution" as any business that engages in financial activity, meaning CPA and Accounting firms must comply with the new laws.
This program will help CPAs/Accountants understand how to better comply with the new guidance and understand the different types of protection and testing (such as Penetration Testing/Ethical Hacking), that are required to regularly monitor and assess the effectiveness of their information security safeguards.
Penetration Testing, commonly known as ethical hacking, involves an authorized attempt to gain unauthorized access to a computer system, application, or data. The goal of these “white hat hackers” is to duplicate the strategies and actions of malicious attackers to expose and remedy weaknesses in an organization’s IT infrastructure. This program will explore monthly penetration testing and explain how it provides a proactive element that complements annual security audits.
Presenters:
Networking Break
Time: Thursday 10:00am - 10:25am
2023 Federal Tax Update
Time: Thursday 10:25am - 11:15am Credits: 1 TB
This session will provide the 2023 Federal Tax update. The discussion will include tax changes and planning opportunities.
Presenters:
The Great Tax Migration - Domicile Change Planning
Time: Thursday 10:25am - 11:15am Credits: 1 AA
Changing domicile from a high-income tax state to Florida is complex, time consuming, and highly
invasive. With a high probability of an income tax audit from the client’s home state, high-income
taxpayers seeking Florida as their future residence need an advocate to help them pass their residency audit. This session will help CPAs understand the nuances required to help clients build their audit trail. It will also provide attendees with tools and techniques to help clients in this new area of domicile change planning.
Presenters:
Another Great Topic Coming Soon
Time: Thursday 10:25am - 11:15am
Internal Audit and Enterpise Risk Management
Time: Thursday 11:25am - 12:15pm Credits: 1 AA
Effective Audit Risk Assessment - The objective of the auditor is to identify and appropriately assess the risks of material misstatement, thereby providing a basis for designing and implementing responses to the risks of material misstatement.
Presenters:
Top HR Trends: Are your Clients Prepared/Aware
Time: Thursday 11:25am - 12:15pm Credits: 1 TB
This segment will review the top HR Trends in today's workplace, including:
- Optimizing Remote Work Teams
- Improving Work Culture and Employee Experience
- How to develop a Strategic Diversity and Inclusion Plan
- Benefits of this segment may include:
- Improve deeper engagement with your clients
- Uniquely positioning your practice in the marketplace
Presenters:
Preparing for a Data-Driven Audit
Time: Thursday 11:25am - 12:15pm Credits: 1 AA
Learn how to harness the power of data for more effective audits. Discover the significance of data-driven approaches in auditing, and leave with practical strategies to enhance audit quality and efficiency.
Presenters:
Lunch
Time: Thursday 12:15pm - 1:15pm
FASB Update
Time: Thursday 1:15pm - 2:05pm Credits: 1 AA
In this session we review recently issued FASB standards, highlighting key provisions and the ones affecting a broad range of industries. Don't miss key accounting changes to your company's financial statements.
Presenters:
Valuations of CPA and Other Firms
Time: Thursday 1:15pm - 2:05pm Credits: 1 TB
We approach valuations based on market comparisons among firms of similar size, type and location. We have collected this data ourselves from actual transactions (166) and therefore can rely on its accuracy. Specific performance indicators and financial ratios are used by prospective buyers to determine the value, compatibility and attractiveness of a merger/acquisition candidate. We will demonstrate a typical Market Comparison (or a Report Car) which includes among other indiciators Client Quality & Retention, Scope of Services, Qualify of Staff, Financial Ratios, Fee Structure, Location and Firm Stability. The process is similar for non-CPA firms, although those valuations include more economic, industry and competitor analyses.
Presenters:
Effective Marketing Automation for Your Firm
Time: Thursday 1:15pm - 2:05pm
Profitable Alternative Risk Transfer
Time: Thursday 2:15pm - 3:05pm Credits: 1 TB
Improving Risk Management is a big challenge faced by many business owners. Lowering the total cost of risk is an even more daunting task. Learn how Alternative Risk Transfer can potentially make Risk Management Profitable for many businesses.
Presenters:
Accounting for Cryptocurrency
Time: Thursday 2:15pm - 3:05pm Credits: 1 AA
The objective of this course is to provide a high level overview of what impact cryptocurrency has on a client’s financial statements and tax return reporting.
Presenters:
Networking Break
Time: Thursday 3:05pm - 3:30pm
Another Great Topic Coming Soon
Time: Thursday 3:30pm - 4:40pm
Impact of Bringing Experts Together
Time: Thursday 3:30pm - 4:20pm Credits: 1 AA
Learn:
• Why HNW clients find great value in having knowledge-intensive teams of trusted advisors willing to integrate their diverse expertise
• Doing so requires accountability and results in greater satisfaction, peace of mind and provides for a smoother transfer of wealth
Presenters:
Exploring Drivers of Audit Transformation: Technoology, Methodology, Standards, and Skills
Time: Thursday 3:30pm - 4:20pm Credits: 1 AA
For big and small engagements alike, audit has been and will continue to change. Learn how the use of technology by auditors and preparers, combined with changes in methodology, and accounting and auditing standards, among other factors, are driving changes in how and what auditors do.
Presenters:
Real Estate Income Tax Planning
Time: Thursday 4:30pm - 5:20pm Credits: 1 TB
This course will go over various and more advanced income tax topics related to real estate. We will go over interest expense limitations issues and planning under IRC Sec. 163(j), reasons to avoid S corporations for real estate investments, and dealer vs. investors issues and strategies. By the conclusion of this course you should be able to identify opportunities for planning and potential risks for your clients.
Presenters:
Be indispensable to your clients: utilizing secret real estate tax strategies
Time: Thursday 4:30pm - 5:20pm Credits: 1 TB
Almost three quarters of small-business owners have changed their CPA or accounting firm because the firm only gave them “reactive service,” instead of proactive advice. This course is about proactively utilizing Real Estate to save your clients taxes.
Presenters:
Another Exciting SFAC Topic Coming Soon!
Time: Thursday 4:30pm - 5:20pm
Objectives:
- High quality CPE at a great price
- Meet your accounting learning requirements
Presenters:
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Mario Ruben Nowogrodzki, CPA, CITP
Mario Nowogrodzki is an information systems consultant and instructor. He is the founder and CEO of Mendelson Consulting, which specializes in software solutions to optimize business operations and maximize financial results.Mr Nowogrodzki is a frequent author and instructor of accounting technology topics and a contributing author and speaker for Intuit, The Woodard Group, and other national...
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Christophe Réglat
Christophe Reglat 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 more distinctly to managed data hosting services for...
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Bruce Allen Nunnally, CGMA, CPA
Bruce Nunnally has over 30 years of public accounting experience, including 9 years with the international public accounting firm, Ernst & Young, LLP. Bruce is also a national instructor of accounting and auditing issues. He has presented accounting and auditing continuing education classes for a quarter of the top 30 CPA firms in the U.S. Some of the courses he has led include:• Annual Update for...
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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...
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Steven Morrison, CPA, CFF, CFE
Steven Morrison brings experience as an engagement partner, quality control reviewer, and standard setter to a variety of industries including automotive dealerships, employee benefit plans, freight forwarding/mail courier, retail, and wholesale/distribution. He is passionate about driving audit excellence and innovation, and contributing to the Profession and the community through roles in...
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Cindy Ragan, CVA, MA
Cindy Ragan is the founder and President of Ragan & Associates, P.A., a consulting firm that specializes in the mergers and acquisitions of accounting firms for the past 26 years. She has a Masters Degree from George Washington University in International Economics and Finance and is certified as an Certified Valuation Analyst (AVA). She is also author of "The Complete Guide to Mergers &...
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Ellen L Joseph, CPA
Ellen L. Joseph is managing member of Ellen L. Joseph CPA Chartered and specializes in Internal Revenue Code § 4980H - shared responsibility for employers regarding health coverage. She uses proprietary software for the related reporting requirements of Forms 1094-C and 1095-C and to help clients reduce or eliminate their proposed Employer Shared Responsibility Payments. She also has a...
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Kenneth Harry Wurtenberg, CPA
Kenneth has significant experience in financial planning and tax services for individuals and small businesses. He has an extensive work history with individuals and start up companies and is the owner of a South Florida CPA firm with over 46 years of financial and tax planning consulting. Mr. Wurtenberg created and participated as an consultant for a local financial TV series. Prior to the TV...
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Jose Carlos Fernandez, CPA,MST
Jose is a managing director based in the BDO Miami office. Jose has over 12 years of experience in public accounting delivering tax compliance and consulting services to clients across a range of industries. He has extensive knowledge in international and domestic taxation, as well as state and local tax matters for multi-national businesses, pass through entities, and business owners. Jose has...
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Joseph C Leuchter
Joseph Leuchter, CPA is an Associate Director of Tax Services at Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs in Miami, FL. He has over 13 years of experience in tax compliance and consulting with a main focus on real estate and partnerships. He also works with clients in the mining, pharmaceutical, e-commerce, among other industries. He was previously at KPMG.
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Joel Young, JD/LLM
Joel G. Young focuses his practice on international tax consulting, income and estate tax planning, and compliance services for high-net-worth families and closely held businesses that have international operations. He routinely assists clients with cross-border investments, Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA) issues, international business restructuring, pre-immigration and...
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Kathryn Marie Gilden, CPA/ABV/CFF, CFE, CVA
Katie Gilden has recently joined Fiske & Company in the Forensic Accounting and Litigation Services Practice of the firm. Katie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in these specialized fields. Prior to joining Fiske & Company, Katie was a Principal at a boutique consulting firm, specializing in forensic accounting investigations of complex financial matters related to civil litigation and...
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Thomas Alan Skelton
Read more about Thomas Alan Skelton here -
John Bryon Bowman II
As a Partner in H&CO's audit department, John specializes in planning and executing audits, reviews, and compilations of financial statements for clients in the construction industry. He is a licensed CPA in the State of Florida.He has broad experience in various industries, including construction, real estate, distribution, real estate investment trusts, and publicly traded companies. John...
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Shawn J McCabe, CPA/PFS, CFP®, MSA, MBA
Shawn J. McCabe, CPA/PFS, CFP®, MSA, MBA is a Partner of CPS Investment Advisors and CPS Group CPAs PA. Shawn and his firm provide integrated tax, investment advisory and personal financial planning services to his clients as well as coach and mentor other CPAs how to add personal financial planning services to their firms through his role as Director of the CPAlliance™. Shawn earned a bachelor's...
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Noah David Rubin, CFP, MBA
As a former CPA, and now 16 years as a wealth manager, Noah's daily activities include portfolio construction, planning for investment, estate, philanthropic, savings, retirement, and cash flow needs. His intentions are to work hard, be well educated in the trade, have years of experience, and care deeply. New clients are referred by CPAs who partner with Noah in a revenue sharing arrangement...
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Gino Fernandez, CPA
I was born and raised in South Florida to immigrant parents. I always grew up in a business environment as my parents always owned a business when I was growing up. This led me to pursue a career in accounting where I have almost a decade of experience.
Read more about Gino Fernandez 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...
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Jonathan Victor Litvin
Jonathan has more than 10 years of experience working with businesses ranging from privately held emerging growth companies to publicly traded global companies in the technology industry, with a focus on the SaaS industry. He has led audits of companies experiencing rapid transformational periods as a result of extreme growth and IPOs. He proactively teams with management to ensure the company...
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Jeremy Colombik, CPA
Jeremy Colombik is an experienced, licensed CPA and financial professional who has worked with NQDC plans and Captives for more than 15 years. He is a member of the North Carolina Association of CPAs and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Jeremy frequently works with the North Carolina Department of Insurance Commissioner as well as U.S. Congressmen and Senators in Washington...
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Raymond Soriano
Ray Soriano is a Director within EisnerAmper Digital with over 30 years of experience in internal audit, technology, and information security. He is responsible for technology risk services, cybersecurity, and risk management solutions for small, medium, and large-scale Fortune 100 companies. Ray predominately focuses on addressing various regulatory and compliance matters affecting organizations...
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Monique Moura Perez, CPA
Monique Perez is an audit director with PwC's Asset & Wealth Management audit practice based in Miami. She commenced her career in the New York office, accumulating over 10 years of professional experience serving clients with a broad range of strategies, reporting models, and asset classes, encompassing public and non-traded REITs, private real estate, and debt. She has worked with multiple...
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Jennifer Okcular
Jennifer E. Okcular, is a shareholder in the law firm of Nelson & Nelson, P.A. in North Miami Beach, Florida, and practices primarily in the areas of tax, estate planning, asset protection planning and probate administration. Jennifer is Board Certified by the Florida Bar in Wills, Trusts and Estates and is a Vice Chair of the Wills, Trusts and Estates Board Certification Committee of the Florida...
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Cassandra Nelson
Cassandra S. Nelson, an associate in the law firm of Nelson & Nelson, P.A. in North Miami Beach, Florida. Cassandra is recognized in Ones to Watch in the practice area of Trusts and Estates since the 2022 edition of Best Lawyers in America®. She practices primarily in the areas of estate planning, asset protection, tax, special needs trusts, guardianships, and probate administration. She has co...
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Thomas Ruggie, ChFC, CFP
A 30+ year veteran of the wealth management industries, Tom Ruggie, ChFC®, CFP® founded Ruggie Wealth Management, the flagship company of independent RIA Destiny Wealth Partners, one of the premier wealth management firms in the country with $1B AUM as of July 13, 2023. Destiny Wealth Partners also conducts business as KCG Investment Advisory Services, Savannah, GA, and Nichols Wealth Partners...
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Magda Szabo, CPA JD, LL.M.
Magda Szabo, CPA JD, LL.M. is a tax director (partner) with the firm of Berkowitz, Pollack & Brant. She is based out of their New York City office. Magda has more than 30 years of experience in international and domestic tax and wealth planning for businesses, high-net-worth individuals, trusts and nonprofits. Her experience encompasses a wide range of international and domestic matters...
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Josh Donner
Joshua Donner is a co-managing member, along with his father Eric Donner, of Six Months and a Day® a proprietary audit-trail management platform and white glove consulting service that simplifies the domicile change process for high-net-worth families seeking to relocate from high-income tax states to no-income tax states. Josh co-founded Six Months and a Day® after establishing a successful...
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Jason Harrell
Jason Harrell is the FICPA Chief External Affairs Officer responsible for leading all aspects of the Institute's public policy, advocacy, governmental affairs and regulatory affairs. He serves as the liaison to the DBPR and Board of Accountancy and is responsible for all advocacy-related external communications and campaigns to increase the value of the CPA license. Jason brings numerous years of...
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Nicole C. Williams, CPA
Nicole Williams is a senior manager in the entrepreneurial services practice, advising clients on tax planning opportunities to help minimize tax liabilities on the individual side and at the business level. This allows her to provide a holistic approach to tax compliance, ensuring that clients are able to take advantage of tax opportunities on both the individual and entity side.Nicole is...
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Jim Brady
With 38 years of experience as a global and domestic professional leader, Jim Brady is an accomplished C-Suite executive who most recently served as the COO at Grant Thornton LLP in the United States.During his lengthy career, Brady has established a proven track record for his ability to grasp challenging business situations and deliver breakout P&L results. In his various executive capacities...
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Eric Donner, ChFC®, CExP™, CAP®, CLU®
Eric Donner, ChFC®, CExP™, CAP®, CLU® is a co-managing member, along with his son Josh Donner of Six Months and a Day, LLC, providing unique concierge services in Domicile Change Planning. As a financial advisor to business owners and high-net-worth individuals for over 35 years, Eric understands the importance of integrating tax planning with life events, including changing residency to Florida...
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Ben Carmona
With more than 20 years of applied experience, Ben is an expert in real estate investments, structures, and strategies.During his tenure at some of the most prominent, industry-leading investment management firms, including Cantor Fitzgerald, NexPoint Advisors, and Capital Square Advisors, Ben was involved in acquisitions, finance, due diligence, underwriting, product syndication, and sales...
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Martina Hopkins, PHR, SHRM-CP
Martina Hopkins is the Regional Manager for Paychex's Professional Employer Organization (PEO), leading a team of 100+ HR Professionals. Based in South Florida, Martina's teams service over 5,000 clients in the Eastern Region of the US. Martina has 12+ years of experience in the PEO industry, having held Senior Leadership roles at Oasis Outsourcing Company and Paychex Inc.Prior to joining Oasis...
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Steve E. Schwartz
Director in National Assurance, leading engagement teams through the technicalities of accounting and auditing matters as we service our clients. In the national assurance office with over 25 years of auditing and accounting services experience demonstrating an excellent track record of outstanding client service to public and private companies. Effective communicator and leader who emphasizes...
Read more about Steve E. Schwartz here -
Philip Guarco
Phil Guarco is a Managing Director and Senior Investor with more than 25 years of experience working with corporations, wealthy families and family foundations globally. He presently is a senior member of a team of professionals which provide capital markets, investment and wealth advisory services to families in South Florida. Prior to his current position, Phil was responsible for the Private...
Read more about Philip Guarco here -
Timothy Cronic
Timothy CronicVice President, Capital SquareTim Cronic boasts a two-decade career in fundraising for real estate syndications, with a track record of securing over a billion dollars in equity for diverse real estate ventures encompassing REITS, DSTs, LLCs, opportunity zones, and various other real estate syndication projects.Before embarking on his current venture, Mr. Cronic served as an...
Read more about Timothy Cronic here -
Kevin McElgunn, CPA
Over 10 years of public accounting experience specializing in auditing, financial statement preparation and analysis as well as business consulting, with a focus on private and publicly-held entities. Withum's team leader for implementing cloud based audit technologies tools such as the Dynamic Audit Solutions (DAS), OnPoint Employee Benefit Plans and Preps, Compilations and reviews, which...
Read more about Kevin McElgunn here -
Mario Enrique Sabates
Mario provides tax consulting and advisory services with a focus on international tax and blockchain/cryptocurrency matters. He serves as one of RSM's blockchain and digital asset tax subject matter experts.
Read more about Mario Enrique Sabates here
Presenters:
Mario Ruben Nowogrodzki, CPA, CITP
Mario Nowogrodzki is an information systems consultant and instructor. He is the founder and CEO of Mendelson Consulting, which specializes in software solutions to optimize business operations and maximize financial results.Mr Nowogrodzki is a frequent author and instructor of accounting technology topics and a contributing author and speaker for Intuit, The Woodard Group, and other national...Read more about Mario Ruben Nowogrodzki hereChristophe Réglat
Christophe Reglat 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 more distinctly to managed data hosting services for...Read more about Christophe Réglat hereBruce Allen Nunnally, CGMA, CPA
Bruce Nunnally has over 30 years of public accounting experience, including 9 years with the international public accounting firm, Ernst & Young, LLP. Bruce is also a national instructor of accounting and auditing issues. He has presented accounting and auditing continuing education classes for a quarter of the top 30 CPA firms in the U.S. Some of the courses he has led include:• Annual Update for...Read more about Bruce Allen Nunnally 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 hereSteven Morrison, CPA, CFF, CFE
Steven Morrison brings experience as an engagement partner, quality control reviewer, and standard setter to a variety of industries including automotive dealerships, employee benefit plans, freight forwarding/mail courier, retail, and wholesale/distribution. He is passionate about driving audit excellence and innovation, and contributing to the Profession and the community through roles in...Read more about Steven Morrison hereCindy Ragan, CVA, MA
Cindy Ragan is the founder and President of Ragan & Associates, P.A., a consulting firm that specializes in the mergers and acquisitions of accounting firms for the past 26 years. She has a Masters Degree from George Washington University in International Economics and Finance and is certified as an Certified Valuation Analyst (AVA). She is also author of "The Complete Guide to Mergers &...Read more about Cindy Ragan hereEllen L Joseph, CPA
Ellen L. Joseph is managing member of Ellen L. Joseph CPA Chartered and specializes in Internal Revenue Code § 4980H - shared responsibility for employers regarding health coverage. She uses proprietary software for the related reporting requirements of Forms 1094-C and 1095-C and to help clients reduce or eliminate their proposed Employer Shared Responsibility Payments. She also has a...Read more about Ellen L Joseph hereKenneth Harry Wurtenberg, CPA
Kenneth has significant experience in financial planning and tax services for individuals and small businesses. He has an extensive work history with individuals and start up companies and is the owner of a South Florida CPA firm with over 46 years of financial and tax planning consulting. Mr. Wurtenberg created and participated as an consultant for a local financial TV series. Prior to the TV...Read more about Kenneth Harry Wurtenberg hereJose Carlos Fernandez, CPA,MST
Jose is a managing director based in the BDO Miami office. Jose has over 12 years of experience in public accounting delivering tax compliance and consulting services to clients across a range of industries. He has extensive knowledge in international and domestic taxation, as well as state and local tax matters for multi-national businesses, pass through entities, and business owners. Jose has...Read more about Jose Carlos Fernandez hereJoseph C Leuchter
Joseph Leuchter, CPA is an Associate Director of Tax Services at Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs in Miami, FL. He has over 13 years of experience in tax compliance and consulting with a main focus on real estate and partnerships. He also works with clients in the mining, pharmaceutical, e-commerce, among other industries. He was previously at KPMG.Read more about Joseph C Leuchter hereJoel Young, JD/LLM
Joel G. Young focuses his practice on international tax consulting, income and estate tax planning, and compliance services for high-net-worth families and closely held businesses that have international operations. He routinely assists clients with cross-border investments, Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA) issues, international business restructuring, pre-immigration and...Read more about Joel Young hereKathryn Marie Gilden, CPA/ABV/CFF, CFE, CVA
Katie Gilden has recently joined Fiske & Company in the Forensic Accounting and Litigation Services Practice of the firm. Katie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in these specialized fields. Prior to joining Fiske & Company, Katie was a Principal at a boutique consulting firm, specializing in forensic accounting investigations of complex financial matters related to civil litigation and...Read more about Kathryn Marie Gilden hereThomas Alan Skelton
Read more about Thomas Alan Skelton hereJohn Bryon Bowman II
As a Partner in H&CO's audit department, John specializes in planning and executing audits, reviews, and compilations of financial statements for clients in the construction industry. He is a licensed CPA in the State of Florida.He has broad experience in various industries, including construction, real estate, distribution, real estate investment trusts, and publicly traded companies. John...Read more about John Bryon Bowman II hereShawn J McCabe, CPA/PFS, CFP®, MSA, MBA
Shawn J. McCabe, CPA/PFS, CFP®, MSA, MBA is a Partner of CPS Investment Advisors and CPS Group CPAs PA. Shawn and his firm provide integrated tax, investment advisory and personal financial planning services to his clients as well as coach and mentor other CPAs how to add personal financial planning services to their firms through his role as Director of the CPAlliance™. Shawn earned a bachelor's...Read more about Shawn J McCabe hereNoah David Rubin, CFP, MBA
As a former CPA, and now 16 years as a wealth manager, Noah's daily activities include portfolio construction, planning for investment, estate, philanthropic, savings, retirement, and cash flow needs. His intentions are to work hard, be well educated in the trade, have years of experience, and care deeply. New clients are referred by CPAs who partner with Noah in a revenue sharing arrangement...Read more about Noah David Rubin hereGino Fernandez, CPA
I was born and raised in South Florida to immigrant parents. I always grew up in a business environment as my parents always owned a business when I was growing up. This led me to pursue a career in accounting where I have almost a decade of experience. Read more about Gino Fernandez 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 hereJonathan Victor Litvin
Jonathan has more than 10 years of experience working with businesses ranging from privately held emerging growth companies to publicly traded global companies in the technology industry, with a focus on the SaaS industry. He has led audits of companies experiencing rapid transformational periods as a result of extreme growth and IPOs. He proactively teams with management to ensure the company...Read more about Jonathan Victor Litvin hereJeremy Colombik, CPA
Jeremy Colombik is an experienced, licensed CPA and financial professional who has worked with NQDC plans and Captives for more than 15 years. He is a member of the North Carolina Association of CPAs and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Jeremy frequently works with the North Carolina Department of Insurance Commissioner as well as U.S. Congressmen and Senators in Washington...Read more about Jeremy Colombik hereRaymond Soriano
Ray Soriano is a Director within EisnerAmper Digital with over 30 years of experience in internal audit, technology, and information security. He is responsible for technology risk services, cybersecurity, and risk management solutions for small, medium, and large-scale Fortune 100 companies. Ray predominately focuses on addressing various regulatory and compliance matters affecting organizations...Read more about Raymond Soriano hereMonique Moura Perez, CPA
Monique Perez is an audit director with PwC's Asset & Wealth Management audit practice based in Miami. She commenced her career in the New York office, accumulating over 10 years of professional experience serving clients with a broad range of strategies, reporting models, and asset classes, encompassing public and non-traded REITs, private real estate, and debt. She has worked with multiple...Read more about Monique Moura Perez hereJennifer Okcular
Jennifer E. Okcular, is a shareholder in the law firm of Nelson & Nelson, P.A. in North Miami Beach, Florida, and practices primarily in the areas of tax, estate planning, asset protection planning and probate administration. Jennifer is Board Certified by the Florida Bar in Wills, Trusts and Estates and is a Vice Chair of the Wills, Trusts and Estates Board Certification Committee of the Florida...Read more about Jennifer Okcular hereCassandra Nelson
Cassandra S. Nelson, an associate in the law firm of Nelson & Nelson, P.A. in North Miami Beach, Florida. Cassandra is recognized in Ones to Watch in the practice area of Trusts and Estates since the 2022 edition of Best Lawyers in America®. She practices primarily in the areas of estate planning, asset protection, tax, special needs trusts, guardianships, and probate administration. She has co...Read more about Cassandra Nelson hereThomas Ruggie, ChFC, CFP
A 30+ year veteran of the wealth management industries, Tom Ruggie, ChFC®, CFP® founded Ruggie Wealth Management, the flagship company of independent RIA Destiny Wealth Partners, one of the premier wealth management firms in the country with $1B AUM as of July 13, 2023. Destiny Wealth Partners also conducts business as KCG Investment Advisory Services, Savannah, GA, and Nichols Wealth Partners...Read more about Thomas Ruggie hereMagda Szabo, CPA JD, LL.M.
Magda Szabo, CPA JD, LL.M. is a tax director (partner) with the firm of Berkowitz, Pollack & Brant. She is based out of their New York City office. Magda has more than 30 years of experience in international and domestic tax and wealth planning for businesses, high-net-worth individuals, trusts and nonprofits. Her experience encompasses a wide range of international and domestic matters...Read more about Magda Szabo hereJosh Donner
Joshua Donner is a co-managing member, along with his father Eric Donner, of Six Months and a Day® a proprietary audit-trail management platform and white glove consulting service that simplifies the domicile change process for high-net-worth families seeking to relocate from high-income tax states to no-income tax states. Josh co-founded Six Months and a Day® after establishing a successful...Read more about Josh Donner hereJason Harrell
Jason Harrell is the FICPA Chief External Affairs Officer responsible for leading all aspects of the Institute's public policy, advocacy, governmental affairs and regulatory affairs. He serves as the liaison to the DBPR and Board of Accountancy and is responsible for all advocacy-related external communications and campaigns to increase the value of the CPA license. Jason brings numerous years of...Read more about Jason Harrell hereNicole C. Williams, CPA
Nicole Williams is a senior manager in the entrepreneurial services practice, advising clients on tax planning opportunities to help minimize tax liabilities on the individual side and at the business level. This allows her to provide a holistic approach to tax compliance, ensuring that clients are able to take advantage of tax opportunities on both the individual and entity side.Nicole is...Read more about Nicole C. Williams hereJim Brady
With 38 years of experience as a global and domestic professional leader, Jim Brady is an accomplished C-Suite executive who most recently served as the COO at Grant Thornton LLP in the United States.During his lengthy career, Brady has established a proven track record for his ability to grasp challenging business situations and deliver breakout P&L results. In his various executive capacities...Read more about Jim Brady hereEric Donner, ChFC®, CExP™, CAP®, CLU®
Eric Donner, ChFC®, CExP™, CAP®, CLU® is a co-managing member, along with his son Josh Donner of Six Months and a Day, LLC, providing unique concierge services in Domicile Change Planning. As a financial advisor to business owners and high-net-worth individuals for over 35 years, Eric understands the importance of integrating tax planning with life events, including changing residency to Florida...Read more about Eric Donner hereBen Carmona
With more than 20 years of applied experience, Ben is an expert in real estate investments, structures, and strategies.During his tenure at some of the most prominent, industry-leading investment management firms, including Cantor Fitzgerald, NexPoint Advisors, and Capital Square Advisors, Ben was involved in acquisitions, finance, due diligence, underwriting, product syndication, and sales...Read more about Ben Carmona hereMartina Hopkins, PHR, SHRM-CP
Martina Hopkins is the Regional Manager for Paychex's Professional Employer Organization (PEO), leading a team of 100+ HR Professionals. Based in South Florida, Martina's teams service over 5,000 clients in the Eastern Region of the US. Martina has 12+ years of experience in the PEO industry, having held Senior Leadership roles at Oasis Outsourcing Company and Paychex Inc.Prior to joining Oasis...Read more about Martina Hopkins hereSteve E. Schwartz
Director in National Assurance, leading engagement teams through the technicalities of accounting and auditing matters as we service our clients. In the national assurance office with over 25 years of auditing and accounting services experience demonstrating an excellent track record of outstanding client service to public and private companies. Effective communicator and leader who emphasizes...Read more about Steve E. Schwartz herePhilip Guarco
Phil Guarco is a Managing Director and Senior Investor with more than 25 years of experience working with corporations, wealthy families and family foundations globally. He presently is a senior member of a team of professionals which provide capital markets, investment and wealth advisory services to families in South Florida. Prior to his current position, Phil was responsible for the Private...Read more about Philip Guarco hereTimothy Cronic
Timothy CronicVice President, Capital SquareTim Cronic boasts a two-decade career in fundraising for real estate syndications, with a track record of securing over a billion dollars in equity for diverse real estate ventures encompassing REITS, DSTs, LLCs, opportunity zones, and various other real estate syndication projects.Before embarking on his current venture, Mr. Cronic served as an...Read more about Timothy Cronic hereKevin McElgunn, CPA
Over 10 years of public accounting experience specializing in auditing, financial statement preparation and analysis as well as business consulting, with a focus on private and publicly-held entities. Withum's team leader for implementing cloud based audit technologies tools such as the Dynamic Audit Solutions (DAS), OnPoint Employee Benefit Plans and Preps, Compilations and reviews, which...Read more about Kevin McElgunn hereMario Enrique Sabates
Mario provides tax consulting and advisory services with a focus on international tax and blockchain/cryptocurrency matters. He serves as one of RSM's blockchain and digital asset tax subject matter experts. Read more about Mario Enrique Sabates hereMajor Topics:
- Accounting and auditing
- Emerging issues
- Financial planning
- Fraud case studies
- Sales tax audits
- Steps to protect your company from hacking
- Cloud accounting apps
- Estate planning update
- Plan design for the closely held business
- Florida legislative update
- Risks associated with high-net-worth clients
- Employee retention tax credit
- Internal audit risk and compliance/enterprise risk management
- Accounting for the R&D credit
- Tax management techniques during market volatility
- Tips to impact your company's bottom line
- and more . . .
Major Topics:
- Accounting and auditing
- Emerging issues
- Financial planning
- Fraud case studies
- Sales tax audits
- Steps to protect your company from hacking
- Cloud accounting apps
- Estate planning update
- Plan design for the closely held business
- Florida legislative update
- Risks associated with high-net-worth clients
- Employee retention tax credit
- Internal audit risk and compliance/enterprise risk management
- Accounting for the R&D credit
- Tax management techniques during market volatility
- Tips to impact your company's bottom line
- and more . . .
Designed For:
CPAs, accountants, and other finance professionals
Prerequisites:
NoneAccommodations:
Accommodations:
Conference Site
Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation
3100 Ray Ferrero Jr. Blvd
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33314
Hotel Location
Renaissance Fort Lauderdale West Hotel
1230 South Pine Island Rd.
Plantation, FL 33324
FICPA Room Rate: $195++
Hotel Cutoff Deadline: Monday, October 2, 2023*
*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.
*** Upon completion of your registration for the conference, you will receive an email confirmation with the hotel link to book your accommodations***