Talent Talks: What PE Firm Employees Really Think

Wednesday, November 18, 2026
3:45 pm - 4:15 pm

Private equity investment in accounting isn’t just a bet on firms, client relationships, or growth potential — it’s a bet on people. The success of these deals ultimately depends on whether the talent inside PE-backed firms stays engaged, motivated, and committed for the long term.

Building on last year’s research, this session will explore new data comparing PE-backed and non-PE firms across key talent indicators, including compensation, hours, career opportunities, and job satisfaction — and dig into what may be driving those trends.

As AI, automation, and new business models continue to reshape the profession, retaining and developing talent may become one of the biggest differentiators between firms that thrive and those that fall behind. The discussion will also feature early insights from a new qualitative research study conducted with academic partners, exploring how employees are experiencing the shift to private equity ownership and why the human side of these deals may ultimately determine their long-term success.