Agenda
 
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Tuesday, November 17, 2026
3:00 pm
Conference Registration Opens
2 hr
4:00 pm
PE FIRMS ONLY
The Realities of Buying Accounting Firms: What PE Firms Need to Know Now
1 hr

As private equity interest in accounting firms accelerates, the path from initial outreach to a successful deal is proving more nuanced than many expect. From sourcing and valuation to partner alignment, governance, and post-deal integration, acquiring an accounting firm requires a deep understanding of both the business model and the people behind it.

In this interactive session, industry advisors Allan Koltin, Bob Lewis, and Phil Whitman—who field calls from PE firms every day—share what you need to know before pursuing a transaction. Each will offer a brief, focused perspective on what drives successful deals, common missteps, and how to effectively evaluate and engage with target firms.

The session will then open into a town hall-style discussion, giving PE firms the opportunity to ask candid questions and pressure-test their approach in real time. Whether you’re actively deploying capital or exploring the space, this is a chance to get unfiltered guidance from advisors who understand both sides of the table.

Moderated by Accounting Today.

Note: Space is limited to encourage open, high-value discussion.

5:00 pm
Welcome Reception for PE Summit
1 hr
Wednesday, November 18, 2026
7:00 am
Conference Registration Opens
1 hr 30 min
7:30 am
Networking Breakfast
1 hr
8:30 am
Welcome & Opening Remarks
10 min
9:20 am
10:10 am
Networking Break
30 min
10:40 am
Panel  Before The Deal: The Three Boxes: Culture, Strategy, and Economics
50 min
CPE Eligible
11:35 am
Panel  Deal Mechanics – How PE Transactions Actually Work (From LOI to Due Diligence)
50 min
CPE Eligible
12:30 pm
Networking Lunch
1 hr
1:30 pm
Panel  Life After the Deal – Operating Under PE Ownership
50 min
CPE Eligible
2:25 pm
Panel  Does Private Equity Actually Accelerate Innovation?
50 min
CPE Eligible
3:45 pm
Does Private Equity Threaten the Integrity of the Profession?
30 min
4:20 pm
Panel  Talent, Growth, and the Next Generation of Leadership
50 min
CPE Eligible
5:15 pm
Closing Remarks: What We’ve Learned — And What Comes Next
15 min

Day One explored the forces driving private equity into the profession. In these closing remarks, we synthesize the key takeaways and preview Day Two’s focus on the second wave — how firms are navigating life after the deal and what the future of ownership in accounting may look like.

5:30 pm
Opening Night Reception
1 hr
Thursday, November 19, 2026