Managing Director
The Visionary Group
Doug Lewis is recognized as one of Accounting Today’s Top 100 Most Influential People, known for his ability to connect strategy, leadership, and execution across today’s evolving accounting landscape. At The Visionary Group, he leads the firm’s M&A efforts while also helping bridge the gap between current and next-generation leadership within CPA firms nationwide.
Doug brings a unique perspective as part of the emerging generation shaping the future of the profession. He works closely with firm leaders to navigate complexity, drive alignment, and position their organizations for long-term success.
At the core of his role is advising on and structuring fair, balanced M&A transactions, including both traditional deals and private equity partnerships. He engages directly with Managing Partners, CEOs, and executive teams, serving as a trusted advisor throughout the lifecycle of a transaction. Doug is known for building meaningful, long-term relationships, introducing innovative approaches to deal-making, and cultivating a strong network of consultants and industry leaders.
A frequent speaker and facilitator, Doug is regularly invited to present at industry events and lead discussions on the future of accounting and M&A. Prior to joining The Visionary Group, he held client-facing roles in professional sports and venture-backed technology companies, where he led sales, marketing, and account management initiatives for Fortune 500 and 1000 organizations. Doug earned his Bachelor of Science from Illinois State University.
With private equity, alternative practice structures and continued consolidation reshaping the accounting profession, understanding where your firm fits in today’s market—and what drives its value—has never been more important.
This session will take firm leaders inside the factors that potential buyers and investors consider when evaluating an accounting firm, from growth, profitability and client mix to leadership depth, talent, technology, geography and market position. It will also unpack common deal terminology and misconceptions, the metrics that can increase or diminish value, and the less obvious intangibles that influence buyer interest.
Whether you’re considering a transaction now, preparing for one down the road or simply want to understand how your firm stacks up in a rapidly changing market, you’ll leave with a clearer picture of what your firm looks like through a buyer’s eyes—and what it may actually be worth.