Top 40 Accounting Influencers You Should Follow in [2026]

The accounting profession plays a vital role in keeping businesses moving worldwide. But with constant changes in tax laws, compliance rules, and financial reporting standards, staying updated isn’t easy. Rather than gathering all the information, you can follow accounting industry leaders sharing critical information through their own speaking and social media channels.

The following is a guide (in no particular order) for those who are at the forefront of accounting and its intersection with technology.

The Best Financial Influencers Every Accountant Should Follow

#1. Jennifer Wilson

(Co-founder and owner, Convergence Coaching)

Jennifer Wilson is co-founder of ConvergenceCoaching, LLC, a management consulting firm that helps CPA firm leaders achieve success. The creator of the first successful CPA firm influencer program, while an employee of state-of-the-art software (the creators of MAS90 software, which Best Software later acquired and then merged with Sage), Jennifer changed the relationship between accounting and technology forever.

She has been recognized with awards in every category and is a thoughtful and outspoken mentor to managing partners of CPA firms worldwide. You will find her annually in the list of “Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting” by Accounting Today, the Most Powerful Women in Accounting, and CPA Practice Advisor’s Top 25 Thought Leader Hall of Fame.

Connect with Jennifer – LinkedIn, Twitter

#2. Randy Johnston

(Regular columnist, Entrepreneur, Technologist, CEO – K2 Enterprises, Network Management Group, Inc.)

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston is one of the top-rated speakers in the technology field. His entertaining and informative presentations make him a regular at National Conferences and State CPA Society events around the U.S. He is a CPA Practice Advisor Top 25 Thought Leader and has been recognized by Accounting Today as one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting for 13 consecutive years.

Randy’s ability to quickly share key information about multiple applications (in a way that still qualifies for CPE) has enabled accountants of every generation to stay up-to-date with the latest technology.

He is a partner in K2 Enterprises in Hammond, LA, and the Founder of Network Management Group, Inc. in Hutchinson, Kansas.

Connect with Randy on  LinkedIn, Twitter 

#3. Geni Whitehouse

(CPA, CITP, CSPM, Author of “How to Make a Boring Subject Interesting: 52 Ways Even a Nerd Can Be Heard”, Writer, Speaker, Blogger)

Geni Whitehouse is recognized as one of the most powerful women in accounting (by CPA Practice Advisor), a Thought Leader, and one of the Top 100 Influencers in accounting. A keynote presenter at accounting and tech conferences worldwide, she divides her remaining time between working as a winery consultant at Brotemarkle Davis & Co. in Napa Valley and speaking, writing, and tweeting about the latest happenings in the accounting profession.

A former tax partner in an Atlanta CPA firm and a former software company executive, Geni is the author of “How to Make a Boring Subject Interesting: 52 ways even a nerd can be heard” on Amazon.com. She is also a co-founder of Solve Services, a remote bookkeeping firm serving the wine industry.

Connect with Geni – LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook

#4. Tom Hood

(CEO and executive director at MACPA, Influencer in Leadership, Learning, & Technology)

Tom Hood is one of the most innovative influencers and change agents in the accounting industry. As CEO of the Maryland Society of CPAs, he has created and delivered learning programs that have helped accountants make the shift to firms of the future.

A regular member of the Accounting Today Top 100 Influencer community in 2018, he was named the second most influential person in the profession, ranking second behind Barry Melancon.

Tom is also among the first five leaders inducted into the CPA Practice Advisor’s Thought Leaders Hall of Fame. His mission is to help CPAs, accounting professionals, and finance executives thrive in these times of change.

Connect with Tom – LinkedIn, Twitter

#5. Amy Vetter

(CPA, CEO, The B³ Method Institute)

Amy Vetter combines accounting expertise with human leadership. With over two decades of experience as a CPA and CFO, she has excelled in finance, technology, and advisory roles, guiding firms to define success beyond mere numbers. Her SaaS and fintech experience keeps her tuned to how accounting teams adapt to AI, modern tools, and changing client needs.

As founder and CEO of The B³ Method Institute, Amy helps firms build healthier cultures by changing daily habits, not just workflows. She emphasizes that well-being and business results are closely linked, a message that resonates with leaders who are tackling burnout, retention, and growth.  

A frequent keynote speaker, author, and educator, Amy is widely recognized in the profession. Named among the Most Powerful Women in Accounting and one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting, she leverages her platform to challenge leaders to create workplaces where people and performance thrive together.  

Connect with Amy – LinkedIn

#6. Jason Staats

(Accounting Advisor, Founder of Realize)

Jason Staats comes from the operator side of the profession. He spent over a decade as a tax preparer before launching a CAS practice and later acquiring a firm, which gave him direct experience with the pressures that firm owners face as they grow. That background shapes how he discusses change, making it practical, grounded, and tested within real-world firms.

Building on that hands-on experience, over the last few years, Jason has worked closely with thousands of firm leaders through conferences, training programs, and his daily podcast for firm owners. He is known for translating what he sees across firms into clear lessons, sharing what works, what fails, and why certain trends gain traction while others fade.

In addition to his work with firm leaders, Jason is a strong voice for independent education in accounting. Through Realize and his content on AI and firm operations, he focuses on helping firm owners make informed decisions without vendor bias. His work appeals to leaders who want clarity, not noise, and advice rooted in lived experience rather than theory.

Connect with Jason- LinkedIn

#7. Jody Padar

(Accounting Ambassador & Bot Advisor at Botkeeper, The Radical CPA, CPA Firm CEO, Accounting Technology Influencer, LinkedIn Top Voice)

Jody Padar is a CPA leader driven by a mission to bring real and sometimes “radical” change to the accounting profession. She has been on the frontlines of the ‘Digital CPA movement in the accounting profession.

Jody embraces social media, cloud computing, and other advanced technologies, and is always looking for innovations that enable accountants to have a significant impact on their clients. She is the author of two books for accountants: The Radical CPA and From Success to Significance.

Connect with Jody – LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook

#8. Jennifer Warawa

(Executive Vice President – Partners, Accountants & Alliances at Sage)

Jennifer is Sage’s Executive Vice President of Partners, Accountants, and Alliances. In this role, she oversees strategy and execution for Sage’s partner program. Before joining Sage, she built and ran an accounting, bookkeeping, and consulting firm in Canada for 12 years. She is a regular presenter at Sage events worldwide.

Connect with Jennifer – LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook

#9. Dawn Brolin

(Speaker, Certified Public Accountant, Certified Fraud Examiner, True Accounting Rockstar, and QuickBooks Expert)

Dawn Brolin is a Certified Public Accountant, CEO of Powerful Accounting, LLC, and Certified Fraud Examiner. Thanks to her energetic and entertaining presentation style and her experience as a podcaster, Dawn has been named as one of the ‘Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Accounting’ 2012-2017 list by CPA Practice Advisor and the ‘Top 10 Managing Partner Elite – Great Accounting Firm Leader’ list by Accounting Today in 2017. She specializes in Taxes, QuickBooks Solutions, Accounting, Cloud solutions, and Payroll options.

Connect with Dawn – LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook

#10. Blake Oliver

(CPA, Founder & CEO, Earmark)

Blake Oliver’s career sits at the intersection of accounting, technology, and media. He began his career in public accounting by founding Cloudsourced Accounting. This early cloud-based bookkeeping firm helped U.S. clients adopt online accounting tools and remote collaboration well before they became common. After the firm was acquired, Blake moved into leadership roles across advisory, consulting, and technology-focused accounting teams, gaining firsthand experience inside fast-growing firms.

His work later shifted to a deeper focus on accounting technology and education. Blake helped shape marketing and education programs at companies such as FloQast and Jirav, where he worked closely with finance teams and software developers. That experience influenced his approach to explaining complex topics in a way that working accountants can actually apply.

Today, Blake is best known as co-host of The Accounting Podcast, one of the most widely followed shows in the profession. He also founded Earmark, a platform that allows accounting and tax professionals to earn continuing education credits through podcasts. Recognized by Accounting Today and CPA Practice Advisor, Blake remains a trusted voice for professionals who want to stay current without losing sight of how firms operate on a day-to-day basis.

Connect with Blake – LinkedIn

#11. Doug Sleeter

(Founder and former CEO of The Sleeter Group, Advisory Board Member – Multiple Companies)

Doug Sleeter is the founder and former CEO of The Sleeter Group. After selling his business to Diversified Communications (Accountex conferences) in 2015, Doug has provided considerable insights to technology companies around the world. His advice and mentorship on applied technology and the people behind it will be a priceless gift to everyone he meets.

A CPA Practice Advisor and Top 25 Accounting Industry Thought Leader, Doug was inducted into the 2017 Hall of Fame. Throughout his career, he has been instrumental in driving accounting software education for bookkeepers and accountants, leading to numerous industry awards, including Accounting Today’s ‘Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting’ list from 2008-2015.

He is passionate about small businesses and the technology that enables them to thrive. His latest mission is to get the profession to embrace blockchain technology and cryptocurrency, when he’s not busy with his real passion: woodworking.

Connect with Doug – LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook

#12. Kelly Phillips

(Tax Attorney, Writer at Forbes)

Kelly Phillips Erb is widely recognized for making tax law accessible without oversimplifying it. As a tax attorney, her work encompasses domestic and international tax planning, trusts and estates, and tax controversy, where she assists individuals and businesses in resolving complex issues and preventing future problems. Her legal background gives her reporting a level of accuracy and context that practitioners rely on.

Kelly writes tax news and analysis for Forbes, covering topics from policy changes to financial crimes. Her reporting links current events to real impacts on taxpayers and professionals, drawing on her experience with major court cases and regulatory shifts. She has also written for Bloomberg Tax, NPR, CNN, and the BBC, bringing tax topics to a broader audience.

Through her writing, speaking, and the Taxgirl podcast, Kelly is a trusted source for timely tax updates and clear explanations. Recognized by legal and accounting groups, she shapes how professionals and the public understand tax issues.

Connect with Kelly – LinkedIn

#13. Zane Stevens

(Founder & Managing Director, Protea Financial)

Zane Stevens is the driving force behind Protea Financial, a U.S.-based accounting and advisory firm specializing in the wine and beverage industry. With over 18 years of experience, Zane brings a unique blend of financial expertise and practical strategy to help winery owners and beverage entrepreneurs simplify their day-to-day operations, grow profits, and gain peace of mind. He holds a Post Graduate Degree in Accounting and is a Chartered Accountant (South Africa).

Zane is recognized for his leadership in the accounting field, being named a North Bay Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree. Beyond his work, Zane is known for being approachable and passionate about sharing his knowledge. He’s a mentor, speaker, and podcast host who loves sparking conversations about how businesses can stay strong and efficient in today’s world.

Ace Cloud Hosting spoke with Zane Stevens in this expert Q&A – he highlights the risks of partnering with non-specialized accountants, explains how advisory services extend beyond basic compliance, and shares why industry-focused outsourcing drives smarter business decisions. – Why Specialized Accounting Is No Longer Optional for Niche Industries.

Connect with Zane – LinkedIn, Twitter

#14 Tyler S. Clark

(Co-Founder, Dream Firms)

Tyler S. Clark is co-founder of Dream Firms, a specialized consulting firm that helps accounting professionals break free from the low-margin client trap. He created the Proactive Accountants Program because he was tired of seeing good CPA firms stuck in the same cycle, taking on anyone who’d pay, then struggling to make ends meet while doing work they didn’t enjoy.

Tyler has helped hundreds of accounting professionals determine how to attract better clients and charge what they’re truly worth. He’s become a go-to resource in the accounting world, not because he has all the fancy credentials but because his strategies actually work. Firm owners trust him because he understands their real problems and gives them practical solutions that don’t require a marketing degree to implement.

Ace Cloud Hosting spoke with Tyler S. Clark in this insightful Q&A. He revealed what truly drives success today, from mastering niche positioning and clear pricing to harnessing cloud and AI technologies to elevate the client experience. Learn more.

Connect with Tyler – LinkedIn

#15. Becky Livingston

(Founder and CEO of Penheel Marketing)

Becky Livingston boasts over two decades of experience in marketing and communications, coupled with a robust background in technology. With a career trajectory spanning from computer programming in chemical engineering to web development and online marketing, she has accumulated a wealth of expertise.

Becky’s journey includes diverse roles in non-profits, large corporations, and CPA firms, including a stint with the Big Four CPA firm KPMG. Her managerial acumen translates complex concepts into reality while maintaining a holistic perspective. Becky is committed to sharing her wealth of knowledge as the best-selling author of the “Accountant’s Social Media Handbook” and an avid blogger.

Known for her speaking engagements at conferences nationwide, she covers topics ranging from CPA-related conferences and social media forums to non-profit groups and educational settings. Her latest work, “SEO for CPAs: The Accountant’s Handbook,” highlights the increasing importance of search engine optimization in the evolving landscape of tax and accounting businesses. Becky’s dedication to continuous learning and knowledge-sharing remains a cornerstone of her success.

Know more about Becky: LinkedIn

#16. Rick Telberg

(President and CEO at CPA Trendlines)

Rick Telberg is President and CEO of CPA Trendlines, a paid subscription service that delivers timely news and practice management tools. A former editor of Accounting Today, Rick has a depth of understanding across all areas of the accounting space and frequently shares his knowledge and deep insights on various social media channels.

Connect with Rick – LinkedIn, Twitter

17. Joanie Mann Cooper

(Consultant and Hosting Solution Pioneer)

Joanie Mann was one of the first individuals involved in hosting desktop applications. Her blog, Bookkeeping in Bunny Slippers, helped accountants worldwide embrace the idea of hosted accounting applications. Her expertise in SMB/SME application hosting and remote access solutions, combined with her knowledge of software, makes her a sought-after speaker and consultant.

A true believer and frequent evangelist for the technology-enabled or cloud-enabled service model, she also has a deep understanding of the SMB market and its unique requirements.

Connect with Joanie – LinkedIn, Twitter

#18. Erik Asgeirsson

(President and CEO – CPA.com, Speaker)

Erik Asgeirsson, CEO of CPA.com, has over 20 years of experience leading technology organizations. He has been recognized as one of the ‘Top 100 Most Influential People in the Accounting Profession’ by Accounting Today for 10 consecutive years, thanks to his influential role in identifying technology solutions and promoting them to accountants through CPA.com.

 He is a frequent speaker at conferences and seminars, and a member of the Digital Now Advisory Group for business leaders.

Connect with Erik – LinkedIn, Twitter

#19. Chandra Bhansali

(President at AccountantsWorld, President, and co-founder – Micro Vision Software Inc.)

Dr. Chandra Bhansali was a proponent of cloud technology before it was called the cloud. He is the President and co-founder of online accounting software and a community for accountants at AccountantsWorld.com.

 He introduced the first Windows-based professional tax system in the ’90s and has been listed in Accounting Today’s list of ‘100 Most Influential People in Accounting’ for more than ten years.

Connect with Chandra – LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook

#20. Gary Boomer

(CEO at Boomer Consulting, Visionary & Strategist)

Gary Boomer is a visionary and strategist at Boomer Consulting, Inc., and is recognized as a leading authority on technology and practice management in accounting firms. He speaks around the globe on topics related to strategy, firm practice management, and technology innovation.

 An innovator in the accounting profession, he also launched “Circles” groups that meet regularly to provide Chief Technology Officers of larger CPA firms with unique learning opportunities and peer support.

He is the author of numerous books and a regular contributor to Accounting Today. In addition to his work with large CPA firms and his participation in organizing the annual Winning is Everything Conference, Gary has counseled companies such as Microsoft, IBM, Intuit, Sage, and others.

Connect with Gary – LinkedIn, Twitter

#21.Rita Keller

(President at Keller Advisors, Speaker, Blogger, and Management Strategist for CPA Firms)

Rita Keller is a CPA firm consultant focused on firm practice management. She helps firms address issues related to partners, marketing, HR, management, and technology. She has been an influential member of the CPA Firm Management Association, which helps firm managers advance their careers through professional education and peer networking. She is a speaker, coach, blogger, advisor, and champion of global CPA firm managers.

 Connect with Rita – LinkedIn, Twitter 

#22. Ron Baker

(Founder, VeraSage Institute)

Ron Baker is an anti-timesheet revolutionary. He founded the VeraSage Institute, a think tank for like-minded visionaries seeking to advance the accounting profession. He is a deep thinker and futurist, and the author of ‘The Firm of the Future’ and ‘Pricing on Purpose.’ He specializes in ethics, economics, marketing, pricing, and leadership for professional services firms, encompassing a range of industries from accounting to law, IT, and advertising.

Connect with Ron – LinkedIn, Twitter

#23 Jason M. Blumer, CPA

(CPA, Founder, Blumer CPAs & Thriveal)

Jason M. Blumer has spent nearly three decades in accounting firms, observing that firm structure, decisive leadership, and talent choices significantly determine results more than any single service line. After acquiring his family’s CPA firm, he transformed it into a fully virtual practice, specializing in creative agencies and service-based businesses. This transformation gave him direct insight into how modern firms evolve and thrive.

While leading Blumer CPAs, Jason co-founded Thriveal, a consulting and membership group created for accounting firm owners eager to rethink leadership, team development, and client service. He focuses on guiding firms to make deliberate decisions about their niche, team structure, and internal operations, particularly during periods of growth or transition.

Connect with Jason- LinkedIn

#24 Sylvia F. Dion

(MPA, CPA, Founder & Managing Tax Partner, PrietoDion Consulting Partners)

Sylvia F. Dion is a leading authority in State and Local Tax, with more than 25 years of experience spanning Big Four public accounting, corporate tax roles, and specialized consulting. As the founder and managing tax partner at PrietoDion Consulting Partners, she works closely with businesses navigating multi-state tax exposure, sales and use tax, payroll taxes, and the growing challenges associated with e-commerce and remote operations.

 Her work goes beyond client advisory. Sylvia is a frequent writer and speaker on technical tax developments, with articles published in respected outlets such as the Journal of Accountancy, Bloomberg’s Multistate Tax Report, and State Tax Notes. Through her columns and tax blogs, she breaks down complex SALT issues into clear guidance that practitioners can rely on. 

Known for her depth of knowledge and practical focus, Sylvia remains a trusted resource for tax professionals navigating the complexities of changing state rules and enforcement. Her voice carries weight because it is grounded in real cases, current law, and decades of hands-on experience. 

Connect with Sylvia- LinkedIn

#25 Marc Rosenberg

(Managing Partner, Rosenberg Associates)

Marc Rosenberg, a renowned figure in the field of CPA firm management, is a nationally acclaimed consultant, author, and speaker specializing in partner compensation and retirement, management strategies, mergers, profitability, and overall firm strategy. With a base in Chicago, his influence extends coast to coast, having consulted with over 1,000 firms for more than two decades.

 Marc co-authored the definitive guide, “CPA Firm Growth: Keys to Practice Development,” alongside Jeffrey S. Pawlow and Charles Hylan, offering invaluable insights into acquiring great clients and fostering rapid revenue growth.

Acknowledging his significant contributions, Accounting Today has consistently recognized Marc as one of the “100 Most Influential People in Accounting” for an impressive 12 consecutive years. His expertise has also earned him a coveted spot in the Top 10 Most Recommended Consultants list by INSIDE Public Accounting, solidifying his status as a key thought leader in the industry.

Follow Marc on LinkedIn

#26 Phil Hobden

(Head of Business Development, Sage)

Phil Hobden leads Business Development at Sage, where he’s passionate about how AI is changing the accounting world. With more than 15 years of experience working alongside prominent companies like NatWest and Wolters Kluwer, Phil has helped firms modernize by introducing smart, technology-driven solutions that truly make a difference in how accountants work and serve their clients.

Phil’s experience with top firms like BDO and Shaw Gibbs gives him a clear view of how the industry has evolved and where it’s headed. Beyond his day job, he shares his insights as a regular contributor to Elite Business Magazine and was named a Top 100 Sales Influencer for 2025. Phil’s real strength lies in helping firms embrace innovation in a way that feels practical and achievable, not overwhelming. 

Ace Cloud Hosting spoke with Phil Hobden, Head of Business Development at Sage, to explore how AI is transforming the accounting profession. In this insightful Q&A, Phil discusses the evolving role of accountants, highlights the technologies driving the biggest impact, and offers practical advice on how firms can equip their teams for lasting success in a rapidly advancing digital landscape. Read to know more.

Connect with Phil – LinkedIn, Twitter

#27 Kerry Smithies

(CPA, QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor, Coach & Speaker)

Kerry Smithies has spent more than 25 years helping small businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs understand their numbers while there is still time to act on them. As a CPA and QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor, her work focuses on building practical bookkeeping systems that support cash flow, reporting, and day-to-day decision making, not just year-end compliance.

Her experience spans hands-on client work, software setup and cleanup projects, and training, often working directly with in-house teams to enable them to manage their books with confidence. Kerry has also served as a facilitator and course developer, which is evident in her clear and concise explanations of accounting concepts to business owners and staff.

Through her blog, videos, courses, and speaking, Kerry shares clear guidance on common QuickBooks and bookkeeping challenges. She is followed by professionals who value calm, experience-based advice and a steady approach to using cloud accounting tools in real businesses.

Connect with Kerry- LinkedIn

#28. Dan McMahon

(CPA, Founder & Managing Partner, Integrated Growth Advisors)

Dan McMahon helps business owners where growth requires structure. With over 25 years of experience as a CPA and advisor, his expertise spans audit leadership, firm management, and advising professional services firms on governance and long-term value. This shapes his approach to growth, focusing on accountability, decision-making, and readiness for ownership.

As founder of Integrated Growth Advisors, Dan guides owner-led businesses from daily operations to lasting profitability and transition readiness. He focuses on governance, leadership alignment, and developing scalable processes for driving ownership change. He is often engaged in succession planning and M&A from both sides. 

Dan’s perspective resonates with leaders seeking self-sustaining firms, not just short-term gains. His guidance is informed by real-world operating experience and a clear understanding of long-term value. 

Connect with Dan-LinkedIn

#29. Seymour Goldberg

(CPA, MBA, JD, senior partner at Goldberg & Goldberg PC in Melville, New York)

Seymour Goldberg also holds the position of Professor Emeritus of Law and Taxation at Long Island University. Formerly, he served as the director of the Tax Institute at the C.W. Post Campus of Long Island University, collaborating with the IRS on various tax programs for professionals.

Renowned for his expertise, Seymour received the American Jurisprudence Award in Federal Estate and Gift Taxation from St. John’s University School of Law. His profound knowledge became evident in 1990 when he discovered incomplete or defective IRA beneficiary forms during a review for a CPA’s client. 

This led Seymour to rectify numerous IRA beneficiary forms to prevent issues arising from incomplete provisions. Over the past decade, IRA institutions have updated their beneficiary forms, ensuring proper allocation to the issue of a predeceased child. However, Seymour cautions that individuals must remain vigilant, as outdated forms may still be on file unless the IRA owner is proactive in updating them. 

Connect with Seymour- LinkedIn

Follow his work on his website – Goldberg & Goldberg PC – Trust Estate Probate

#30 Carol Campbell

(Director of the IRS Return Preparer Office)

Carol Campbell was named director of the IRS Return Preparer Office in August 2012. As a director, she is responsible for the IRS’s oversight program of the tax professional industry, including the Annual Filing Season Program and the PTIN program.

She worked at the U.S. Department of Labor before joining the IRS in 1991. At the IRS, she served as a senior docket attorney in Chief Counsel and later as counsel to the National Taxpayer Advocate. In 2003, she became Division Counsel for the Wage and Investment Division. In May 2010, she became Deputy Chief of Staff for the IRS Commissioner. 

Read more about Carol – Website

#31. Steven E. Sacks, CPA

(CPA, CGMA, ABC)

Steven Sacks has been a prominent figure in accounting for over 35 years. Noteworthy achievements in his career encompass pioneering the initial set of CPA consulting standards, establishing the Accredited in Business Valuation credential, and orchestrating conferences dedicated to business valuation and litigation support services. Additionally, he has contributed to the field by publishing practice management and technical guides for consulting services.

In 2020, he authored the book “The New Fundamentals: Practical Guidance for Today’s Accounting Firms,” earning the APEX Grand Award for Excellence in Print Media from Communication Concepts. Previously, Steven served as managing editor for the award-winning BusinessEdge, a newsletter published by the Michigan Association of CPAs, focusing on CPAs in the private sector.

Follow Steven – LinkedIn

#32. August Aquila

(Professional Service Firm Consultant, Speaker and Author, Professional Service Firm Consultant, Speaker and Author, Aquila Global Advisors, LLC)

Leveraging over 25 years of experience in the accounting profession, August J. Aquila, a renowned speaker, consultant, and author, is a driving force for professional service firms in the US, Canada, the UK, and India.

Through his leadership as CEO of AQUILA Global Advisors, he delves into areas crucial for the firm’s success, including designing effective compensation plans, resolving internal conflicts, navigating leadership changes, and crafting strategic roadmaps.

His expertise in succession planning, mergers & acquisitions, and general partnership issues has empowered countless firms to navigate complex challenges and achieve sustainable growth.

Whether through his consulting work or his insightful book, “CPAs That Sell,” August empowers accounting professionals to excel in their technical skills and become adept at business development, a crucial differentiator in today’s competitive landscape. His dedication to the profession shines through in his comprehensive solutions and unwavering commitment to guiding firms toward a brighter future.

Follow August – LinkedIn

#33. Sandra Wiley

(President, Boomer Consulting, Inc.)

Sandra Wiley is a visionary leader and serves as the President of Boomer Consulting, Inc. A human resource specialist, strategic planner, and personal coach, she is a frequent lecturer at conferences nationwide. Sandra has written for the CPA Practice Management Report, Accounting Web, Accounting Today, Lagniappe of Louisiana, and many other publications.

Connect with Sandra – LinkedIn

#34 Joanne Barry

(Executive Director of the New York State Society of CPAs)

Joanne Barry currently serves as the Executive Director of the NYSSCPA (New York State Society of CPAs). Her specialties are advocacy, media, business development, editing, strategic planning, governance, writing, and more.

Connect with Joanne – LinkedIn, Twitter

#35. Paul Caron

(Publisher and editor-in-chief of TaxProf Blog)

Paul Caron is one of the most popular online bloggers on the TaxProf Blog. As a Dean and Tax Professor at the Pepperdine Law School, he has published six books on tax concepts, including Estate and Gift Tax.

Connect with Paul – LinkedIn, Twitter

#36. Jeanette Franzel

(Former Board member, PCAOB)

Jeanette Franzel was appointed to the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) by the SEC, where she served until January 2018. Before joining the PCAOB, she spent 23 years at the Government Accounting Office, ending her tenure as a Managing Director overseeing all aspects of the organization’s financial audit oversight of the U.S. federal government.

Jeanette, a speaker and lecturer, has been awarded GAO’s Distinguished Service Award and the AICPA’s Outstanding CPA in Government Award. In 2010, she received the International Achievement Award from the Association of Government Accountants. 

Connect with Jeanette – LinkedIn, Facebook

#37 Joey Havens

(Author, Speaker, Former Executive Partner at HORNE)

Joey Havens is recognized for his longstanding focus on leadership, culture, and people development within accounting firms. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he played a key role at HORNE, a top 25 CPA firm, where he served in senior leadership and executive partner roles, helping to shape a people-first culture across a large, multi-office organization.

Since stepping back from firm leadership, Joey has focused on sharing what he learned about building strong teams and growing leaders from within. Through his writing, speaking, and teaching, he challenges traditional views of firm management and encourages leaders to prioritize belonging, purpose, and personal growth within their organizations.

Joey is the author and co-author of several books and white papers on firm leadership and the future of the profession, including work published with AICPA. Recognized as a Top 30 Thought Leader by CPA Practice Advisor, he remains a respected voice for firms looking to strengthen culture while preparing the next generation of leaders.

Connect with Joey- LinkedIn

#38 Aly Garrett

(FCA, Founder, All In Advisory)

Aly Garrett has spent over thirty years specializing in accounting, tax, and advisory services, with a clear focus on helping small and mid-sized businesses achieve sustainable growth. As founder of All In Advisory, she partners with business owners to streamline financial decisions and alleviate operational burdens that impede team performance.

Her expertise bridges advisory services and modern accounting technologies. Aly has championed the adoption of cloud-based platforms and advisory-led firm structures, drawing on her credentials as a Fellow of the Chartered Accountants and a member of the Xero Partner Advisory Council. She is also a podcast host, speaker, and mentor, regularly sharing insights rooted in practical client experience.

Widely honored with industry awards in Australia, Aly is recognized for her direct approach and dedication to empowering accountants and business owners. Her leadership embodies the conviction that reliable advice, effective systems, and steady guidance create lasting value for firms and clients.

Connect with Aly- LinkedIn

#39 Andrew Van De Beek

(FCA, Advisor at Illumin8, Speaker & Podcast Host)

Andrew Van De Beek operates at the intersection of accounting, advisory, and business ownership, focusing on connecting financial decisions to clients’ life goals. As a Chartered Accountant, he supports growing businesses with targeted advice, efficient systems, and tailored technology solutions that fit how people work.

At Illumin8, Andrew guides SMEs on tax planning, outsourced finance, and streamlining operations, often supporting founders through early growth and innovation. He is particularly engaged in how cloud tools and streamlined workflows eliminate barriers and help businesses prioritize their core objectives. 

Andrew is a speaker and podcast host who questions outdated professional norms. He brings energy and candor to discussions about advisory practice, client engagement, and the evolution of the accounting industry, encouraging firms to foster trust, curiosity, and genuine human connection.  

Connect with Andrew- LinkedIn

#40 Ben Towne

(Principal and CEO of Towne Advisory Services)

Ben Towne is the founder and CEO of Towne Advisory Services, where he helps business owners determine the true value of their companies and identify opportunities to increase their value. With over 20 years of experience, Ben works closely with private business owners to plan for successful exits and build businesses that last.

Ben started as a CPA in Silicon Valley, gaining strong skills in financial analysis and business advice. In 2013, he started Towne Advisory to support business owners in planning for long-term success. More recently, he co-founded Assurent Advisors to help companies find the right talent worldwide. He also hosts the MaxValue Podcast, where he discusses business valuation, planning exits, and growing companies practically and sensibly.

Ace Cloud Hosting spoke with Ben Towne, highlighting how firms can thrive by adopting cloud-based systems, addressing staffing challenges, and using technology to boost their business value. He shares essential traits that help companies survive and grow at every stage of their journey. Know More!

Connect with Ben – LinkedIn

Conclusion

Staying ahead of the curve in the dynamic world of accounting requires constant learning and inspiration, which you can gain not only from traditional sources but also by using an Instagram story viewer to keep up with the latest posts from influential accounts in the field.

Fortunately, the USA boasts a vibrant community of thought leaders and influencers who share their expertise through various platforms. Whether you’re a seasoned CPA, a student aspiring to join the field, or simply someone interested in financial literacy, following these individuals can enrich your knowledge and broaden your perspective.

If you are looking to learn more about accounting and the latest technology, start by following these leading voices in the profession. You can also follow Ace Cloud Hosting on social media –Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook to get the latest insights into the world of accounting and the cloud.