50 Best Thought Leaders in Accounting in the USA (2026)

Jonno White
Mar 16
27 min read

The accounting profession in the United States is facing more simultaneous disruption than at any point in its modern history. Artificial intelligence is reshaping how firms deliver services. Private equity is transforming firm structures and economics. The CPA pipeline crisis continues to squeeze talent supply. Client advisory services are growing faster than compliance work. And through all of it, the profession needs voices who can cut through the noise and help leaders make better decisions.

This directory is the most comprehensive resource available for accounting professionals, firm owners, conference organisers, and business leaders searching for the best thought leaders in accounting in the USA. It covers 50 thought leaders across multiple categories, including association leadership, firm growth consulting, pricing strategy, AI and technology innovation, tax specialisation, media and podcasting, DEI advocacy, and large firm leadership. Whether you are booking a keynote speaker for your state CPA society annual conference, hiring a consultant to help your firm transition to advisory services, or curating your LinkedIn feed to stay ahead of industry trends, this guide will help you make an informed choice.

One pattern emerged clearly while researching this directory. The accounting profession has extraordinary technical expertise and no shortage of brilliant minds shaping strategy, technology, and policy. What most firms tell us they struggle with is the people side. Team dynamics, communication breakdowns, leadership development, getting partners aligned, building cultures that retain talent. Those challenges are not accounting problems. They are leadership problems. And they require a different kind of expertise.

That is why organisations across the accounting profession bring in Jonno White, Certified Working Genius Facilitator, bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out with over 10,000 copies sold globally, and a keynote speaker and workshop facilitator who achieved a 93.75% satisfaction rating at the ASBA 2025 National Conference. Jonno does not compete with the thought leaders on this list. He complements them. They bring the accounting expertise. He brings the leadership and team development frameworks that turn that expertise into high performing teams. To discuss how Jonno might support your accounting team, email jonno@consultclarity.org.

Aerial view of a modern boardroom conference table representing the best thought leaders in accounting in the USA

How We Ranked These Thought Leaders

Every thought leader in this directory was evaluated against six criteria. First, expertise and credentials, including professional certifications, published work, industry recognition, and depth of knowledge. Second, influence on the profession, measured by inclusion in lists such as Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting, CPA Practice Advisor's Top 25 Thought Leaders, and INSIDE Public Accounting's Most Recommended Consultants.

Third, we assessed service availability. Can this person be hired for a keynote, workshop, consulting engagement, or advisory role? A directory that only lists people you cannot engage is not useful for buyers. Fourth, we evaluated relevance to 2026, prioritising leaders actively shaping the conversation around AI adoption, CPA pipeline reform, private equity, CAS growth, and firm transformation. Fifth, we considered public visibility and content output, including LinkedIn activity, podcast presence, published articles, and conference speaking frequency. Sixth, we assessed originality of ideas, because the profession needs fresh thinking, not recycled talking points.

The Complete Rankings

1. Tom Hood

EVP, Business Engagement and Growth, AICPA

Tom Hood is one of the most consistently cited future of the profession voices in U.S. accounting. His work at the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants focuses on skills development, innovation, and helping firms navigate digital transformation. He has appeared on Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting list repeatedly and is a strong fit for keynotes on the future of accounting, leadership in professional services, and technology adoption. Hood's emphasis on business model transformation and workforce skills makes him especially relevant in 2026 as AI reshapes what accountants do every day.

Best for: Large firm partner retreats, state CPA society conferences, and innovation focused leadership events.

2. Allan Koltin

CEO, Koltin Consulting Group

Allan Koltin is arguably the most influential M&A advisor in the accounting profession. His consulting practice focuses on governance, succession planning, merger strategy, and the private equity wave transforming firm structures across the United States. Koltin regularly keynotes major industry conferences and facilitates firm retreats. In 2026, with PE backed consolidation accelerating across mid market and regional firms, his expertise is more relevant than ever. He publicly markets keynotes, executive coaching, and strategic advisory services.

Best for: Firm owners evaluating PE deals, managing partner retreats focused on succession, and M&A strategy sessions.

3. Blake Oliver

Founder and CEO, Earmark CPE, and Co-host of The Accounting Podcast

Blake Oliver is one of the most visible independent media voices in U.S. accounting. Through The Accounting Podcast, which he co-hosts with David Leary, he reaches tens of thousands of accounting professionals every week with news, analysis, and opinion on industry trends. He founded Earmark, a platform that lets CPAs earn continuing education credits through podcasts. Oliver has been named to Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential People list and brings a strong moderator, keynote, and emcee skill set to conferences. His perspective on the CPA pipeline crisis, AI, and the future of the profession is consistently provocative and well informed.

Best for: Conference keynotes and panel moderation, technology focused events, and audiences wanting a media literate voice on profession transformation.

4. Ron Baker

Co-founder, THRESHOLD

Ron Baker is one of the biggest names in value pricing and the movement against billable hours in professional services. As a co-founder of THRESHOLD and the VeraSage Institute, he has spent decades advocating for pricing models based on value rather than time. His books and speaking engagements have influenced thousands of firm owners to rethink how they charge clients. Baker remains active as a speaker and educator and brings deep intellectual rigour to pricing, economics, and the future of knowledge work.

Best for: Firms transitioning away from hourly billing, pricing strategy workshops, and partner retreats focused on business model redesign.

5. Jody Padar

Co-founder, XcelLabs, and CEO, New Vision CPA Group

Known as the Radical CPA, Jody Padar has built her reputation on pushing the accounting profession toward innovation, technology adoption, and modern business practices. She co-founded XcelLabs to help firms implement next generation technology solutions and continues to write, speak, and consult on firm transformation. Padar brings energy and a willingness to challenge the status quo that makes her a strong fit for audiences tired of incremental change messaging.

Best for: Firm owner conferences, innovation and technology keynotes, and audiences wanting bold ideas about the future of accounting.

6. Sandra Wiley

President, Boomer Consulting

Sandra Wiley leads Boomer Consulting, one of the most established advisory practices serving CPA firms. Her expertise spans people strategy, shared vision, leadership development, and firm operations. She has been named to Accounting Today's Top 100 list and CPA Practice Advisor's list of Most Powerful Women in Accounting. Wiley is particularly strong on talent strategy, a critical topic as the CPA pipeline crisis continues to pressure firms of all sizes.

Best for: Partner retreats focused on people strategy, firm culture transformation, and talent development conferences.

7. Kimberly Ellison-Taylor

CEO, KET Solutions

Kimberly Ellison-Taylor is one of the most recognised technology, leadership, and inclusion advocates in the accounting profession. A former AICPA Chair, she has been named to multiple Accounting Today Top 100 lists and is widely sought as a keynote speaker. Her work at KET Solutions focuses on helping organisations leverage technology and build inclusive leadership cultures. Ellison-Taylor is one of the strongest voices connecting diversity, technology, and profession strategy.

Best for: DEI focused conferences, technology leadership keynotes, and association events seeking a credible and inspiring voice.

8. Jason Blumer

Founder and CEO, Thriveal, and CEO, Blumer CPAs

Jason Blumer is an influential voice on intentional firm design, advisory capacity, and growth strategy for accounting entrepreneurs. Through Thriveal, a community for forward thinking firm owners, and his podcasts the Thrivecast and the Businessology Show, he provides ongoing education and peer connection. Blumer clearly offers coaching, teaching, and speaking services and is particularly valuable for firm owners designing practices around creative and professional services industries.

Best for: Firm owners seeking coaching on intentional growth, advisory focused practice design, and niche market strategy.

9. Mark Koziel

President and CEO, AICPA and Association of International Certified Professional Accountants

As the leader of the AICPA, Mark Koziel is one of the most influential figures in U.S. accounting. His focus on CPA licensure reform, profession strategy, and the pipeline crisis positions him at the center of the profession's biggest debates. Koziel is a strong fit for high level association stages and executive forums where the future direction of the profession is the central topic. His leadership of the licensure pathway reform approved in 2025 makes him especially relevant in 2026.

Best for: Executive forums, association leadership events, and policy oriented conferences.

10. Erik Asgeirsson

President and CEO, CPA.com

Erik Asgeirsson leads CPA.com, the AICPA affiliate that has driven some of the profession's most important technology and business model shifts, from cloud adoption to CAS development to AI strategy. He has been recognised repeatedly by Accounting Today as one of the most influential people in accounting. His focus on digital transformation, AI implementation, and practice innovation makes him one of the strongest voices for firms navigating the technology transition.

Best for: Innovation keynotes, digital transformation strategy sessions, and firm leadership events focused on AI and CAS.

The thought leaders on this list bring extraordinary accounting expertise. But if your team also needs help with leadership development, communication, team alignment, or building a high performing culture, bring in Jonno White, Certified Working Genius Facilitator and bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out. He works alongside accounting thought leaders to address the people side that most firms tell us they struggle with most. Email jonno@consultclarity.org.

11. Jennifer Wilson

Co-founder and Partner, ConvergenceCoaching

Jennifer Wilson is a fixture on every major accounting influence list. She has been named to Accounting Today's Top 100, CPA Practice Advisor's Top 25 Thought Leaders, INSIDE Public Accounting's Most Recommended Consultants, and the Most Powerful Women in Accounting list. Her consulting practice focuses on leadership development, succession planning, talent strategy, and strategic growth for CPA firms. Wilson brings decades of experience and a reputation that opens doors with even the most sceptical partner groups.

Best for: Succession planning workshops, leadership development retreats, and firm strategy facilitation.

12. Dawn Brolin

CEO, Powerful Accounting

Dawn Brolin is a CPA, CFE, and one of the accounting profession's most energetic educators and motivators. She brings expertise in accounting, tax, forensics and fraud, and QuickBooks consulting, combined with a motivational speaking style that connects with audiences at every level. Brolin is the author of multiple books and hosts the DM Disruption podcast. She is clearly active as a speaker and advisor and brings particular strength in helping small to mid size firms grow their practices.

Best for: Firm growth conferences, technology adoption events, and audiences wanting energy and practical motivation.

13. Gary Boomer

Founder, Boomer Consulting

Gary Boomer founded Boomer Consulting and has been a leading authority on technology, leadership, and practice management in accounting for decades. He is recognised as a visionary who helped shape how CPA firms think about technology integration, strategic planning, and operational excellence. Boomer has created collaborative groups for technology officers in CPA firms and continues to influence how firms approach innovation.

Best for: Technology strategy sessions, firm leadership retreats, and CPA society events focused on innovation and practice management.

14. Amy Vetter

CEO, The B3 Method Institute

Amy Vetter combines CPA credentials with a unique focus on mindfulness, wellbeing, and leadership. Her B3 Method integrates business, balance, and bliss to help accounting professionals build sustainable careers. She is the author of Integrative Advisory Services and hosts the Breaking Beliefs podcast. Vetter is a strong fit for conferences seeking content that goes beyond technical updates to address the human side of the profession, including burnout, work life integration, and purposeful leadership.

Best for: Wellbeing and leadership conferences, advisory services keynotes, and events seeking a balance of technical and human content.

15. Jackie Meyer

Founder, Meyer Tax Consulting and TaxPlanIQ

Jackie Meyer has built her reputation on premium tax advisory, value pricing, and helping accountants move from compliance to proactive planning. She founded TaxPlanIQ, a SaaS platform that helps firms deliver tax advisory services, and was selected for the AICPA 2023 Accelerator Cohort. Meyer has been named a 40 Under 40 by CPA Practice Advisor multiple times and is publicly marketed as a keynote speaker and coach.

Best for: Tax advisory transformation events, pricing strategy workshops, and firm owner conferences focused on premium services.

16. Randy Johnston

Executive Vice President, K2 Enterprises

Randy Johnston is one of the longest standing accounting technology educators in the United States. As CEO of K2 Enterprises and Network Management Group, he has been a fixture on Accounting Today's Top 100 list and CPA Practice Advisor's Top 25 Thought Leaders for years. His presentations cover technology strategy, software selection, cybersecurity, and AI adoption for accounting firms. Johnston is clearly hireable for technology updates, advisory sessions, and conference keynotes.

Best for: Technology update keynotes, software strategy sessions, and CPA society annual conferences.

17. Brian Tankersley

Director of Strategic Relationships, K2 Enterprises

Brian Tankersley is a major accounting technology educator, author, and podcast voice. His work at K2 Enterprises puts him at the intersection of accounting practice and emerging technology. Tankersley is a frequent conference speaker and brings particular strength in helping practitioners understand how to implement new tools without disrupting existing workflows.

Best for: Technology implementation workshops, cybersecurity focused events, and mid market firm retreats.

18. Joe Woodard

CEO, Woodard

Joe Woodard is one of the most visible educators in accounting technology and client advisory services. He publishes The Woodard Report and hosts the Scaling New Heights conference, one of the largest annual gatherings for accountants and bookkeepers focused on technology and practice growth. Woodard's influence extends through training programmes, community building, and direct consulting with firms of all sizes.

Best for: CAS development conferences, technology education events, and firm growth strategy sessions.

19. Geni Whitehouse

CPA, CITP, CSPM, and Founder, The Impactful Advisor

Geni Whitehouse is known for making accounting communication engaging and accessible. Through her books, keynotes, and Thought Leader Academy, she helps firms shift from compliance driven services to high trust advisory relationships. She has been named to Accounting Today's Top 100, CPA Practice Advisor's Top 25 Thought Leaders, and the Most Powerful Women in Accounting list. Her specialisation in the wine industry provides a fascinating case study in niche advisory.

Best for: Advisory services conferences, communication skills workshops, and events seeking a speaker who can make financial topics genuinely engaging.

20. Donny Shimamoto

Founder and Managing Director, IntrapriseTechKnowlogies

Donny Shimamoto is a top voice on accounting technology, IT risk management, organisational development, and digital transformation. He is a frequent conference speaker at AICPA, state CPA society, and industry technology events. His consulting practice helps firms implement technology strategies that align with business objectives.

Best for: Technology strategy consulting, IT risk and governance sessions, and digital transformation workshops.

21. Susan Coffey

CEO, Public Accounting, Association of International Certified Professional Accountants

Susan Coffey is one of the most influential voices on firm transformation, talent strategy, and public accounting policy. Her leadership role at the AICPA gives her unique visibility into the challenges facing firms of all sizes. She has been named to Accounting Today's Top 100 list and brings credibility to conversations about the profession's future direction.

Best for: Policy conferences, firm leadership forums, and association events focused on the future of public accounting.

22. Randy Crabtree

Co-founder, Tri-Merit Specialty Tax Professionals

Randy Crabtree combines specialty tax expertise with a genuine passion for firm culture and profession leadership. He hosts The Unique CPA podcast and has become an increasingly visible speaker on topics including R&D tax credits, specialty tax, and building positive firm cultures. Crabtree represents a new generation of thought leaders who combine deep technical knowledge with human centred leadership thinking.

Best for: Specialty tax conferences, firm culture workshops, and events wanting a speaker who bridges technical tax and leadership.

23. Arianna Campbell

COO, Boomer Consulting

Arianna Campbell is a nationally recognised speaker on process improvement, leadership development, and firm operations. Her work at Boomer Consulting gives her direct access to the challenges facing hundreds of CPA firms, and she translates those insights into actionable strategies. Campbell is clearly hireable for consulting, facilitation, and conference keynotes.

Best for: Firm operations workshops, process improvement consulting, and leadership development conferences.

24. Sarah Elliott

Co-founder, Intend2Lead

Sarah Elliott is an executive coach and leadership development specialist who works specifically with accounting firms. Her coaching practice helps partners and emerging leaders develop the skills they need to lead effectively in a changing profession. Elliott is a CPA herself, which gives her credibility with technical audiences.

Best for: Partner coaching engagements, leadership pipeline development, and firm retreats focused on growing the next generation of leaders.

25. Kacee Johnson

Strategic Advisor and Innovation Partner

Kacee Johnson is a major voice on fintech, AI, sales strategy, and innovation in accounting. She has been a member of CPA Practice Advisor's Top 25 Thought Leaders Symposium since 2017 and was named one of the Most Powerful Women in Accounting. Johnson offers consulting, workshops, and keynotes that help firms and technology companies navigate innovation and growth.

Best for: Fintech conferences, AI strategy sessions, and innovation focused firm retreats.

26. Michelle Weinstein

Founder, The Pitch Queen, and Host of The Abundant Accountant

Michelle Weinstein is one of the clearest business development and sales specialists serving the accounting profession. Her podcast, The Abundant Accountant, reaches thousands of practitioners seeking help with pricing, selling advisory services, and growing their practices. Weinstein is clearly hireable for coaching, workshops, and keynotes.

Best for: Business development workshops, pricing strategy sessions, and firm growth conferences.

27. Philip Whitman

CEO, Whitman Transition Advisors

Philip Whitman is a key voice on alternate practice structures, private equity, and firm transactions. As PE backed consolidation reshapes the U.S. accounting landscape in 2026, Whitman's expertise in deal structure, firm valuation, and strategic positioning is exceptionally relevant. He has been named to Accounting Today's Top 100 list.

Best for: PE strategy sessions, firm valuation workshops, and managing partner retreats focused on transactions and succession.

28. Angie Grissom

Owner and Chief Relationship Officer, The Rainmaker Companies

Angie Grissom is influential on people strategy, remote work, culture, and growth in CPA firms. The Rainmaker Companies provides consulting, coaching, and training that helps firms attract, develop, and retain talent. Grissom has been named to Accounting Today's Top 100 list and brings practical experience helping firms navigate the talent challenges that define this era.

Best for: Talent strategy workshops, firm culture consulting, and partner retreats focused on growth and people development.

29. Jim Bourke

Partner and Managing Director of Advisory Services, Withum

Jim Bourke is a long time authority on accounting technology, advisory services, and innovation. As a partner at Withum, he combines strategic perspective with hands on firm experience. Bourke is heavily active on the speaking circuit and brings credibility with both practitioners and technology vendors.

Best for: Technology advisory keynotes, innovation conferences, and Top 100 firm leadership events.

30. Seth Fineberg

Founder, Accountants Forward

Seth Fineberg is an influential media and strategy voice who bridges journalism, consulting, and thought leadership. As editor at large at CPA Trendlines and founder of Accountants Forward, he helps firms and technology companies navigate content strategy, market positioning, and industry communication.

Best for: Content strategy consulting, marketing workshops for firms, and media and communications events.

31. David Leary

Co-host of The Accounting Podcast and Founder, Sombrero Apps Company

David Leary co-hosts The Accounting Podcast alongside Blake Oliver and brings deep expertise in accounting software, app ecosystems, and industry news. His technology background and weekly podcast presence make him one of the most informed voices on what tools are actually working for firms.

Best for: Technology panel discussions, app ecosystem workshops, and industry news roundtables.

32. Kelly Phillips Erb

Tax Attorney and Founder of Tax Girl

Kelly Phillips Erb is widely recognised for making tax law accessible without oversimplifying it. As a tax attorney and writer, she has contributed to Forbes, Bloomberg Tax, and her own Tax Girl platform. Her ability to explain complex tax issues in plain language is exceptional and makes her one of the strongest voices for both professionals and the general public.

Best for: Tax conferences, public facing financial literacy events, and media panels on tax policy.

33. Danielle Supkis Cheek

SVP, AI, Analytics and Assurance, Caseware

Danielle Supkis Cheek is a high credibility voice on AI, analytics, and audit innovation. Her role at Caseware positions her at the intersection of technology development and practical audit application. She has been recognised repeatedly by industry publications and brings particular strength in helping audit teams understand how AI changes their work.

Best for: Audit technology conferences, AI implementation workshops, and assurance focused events.

34. Byron Patrick

CEO, VERIFYiQ, and Co-founder, TB Academy

Byron Patrick is a respected voice on generative AI, accounting technology, and education. Through VERIFYiQ and TB Academy, he is building tools and training programmes that help practitioners adopt AI effectively. Patrick is a frequent speaker at AICPA conferences and brings hands on experience implementing AI solutions.

Best for: AI education workshops, technology adoption conferences, and AICPA events.

35. Marc Rosenberg

Founder and Managing Partner, Rosenberg Associates

Marc Rosenberg is one of the most respected authorities on CPA firm management and economics. His research and publications have shaped how the profession thinks about firm structure, partner compensation, and operational efficiency. Rosenberg has influenced the PE conversation through his long standing data on firm economics and performance.

Best for: Partner compensation workshops, firm economics consulting, and managing partner forums.

36. Julie Bell Lindsay

CEO, Center for Audit Quality

Julie Bell Lindsay leads the Center for Audit Quality, one of the most important organisations advocating for public company audit quality and investor confidence. Her leadership puts her at the center of assurance policy, regulatory relationships, and audit profession credibility.

Best for: Audit quality conferences, regulatory and policy forums, and public company focused events.

37. Carla McCall

Managing Partner, AAFCPAs, and Former AICPA Chair

Carla McCall brings exceptional credibility as both a firm leader and a former AICPA Chair. Her managing partner role at AAFCPAs gives her practical experience with firm growth, innovation, and inclusion, while her AICPA leadership provides a national perspective. McCall has been named to the Most Powerful Women in Accounting list.

Best for: Firm leadership forums, inclusion and diversity conferences, and association leadership events.

38. Jennifer Warawa

EVP, Partners, Accountants and Alliances, Sage

Jennifer Warawa is a long time technology channel executive who understands the intersection of accounting software, partner programmes, and practice growth. Her experience running her own accounting firm in Canada for 12 years gives her practitioner credibility that many technology executives lack.

Best for: Technology partnership events, Sage ecosystem conferences, and firm technology adoption workshops.

39. Cathy Rowe

SVP and Segment Leader, U.S. Professional Market, Wolters Kluwer Tax and Accounting

Cathy Rowe was named to Accounting Today's 2024 Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting. Her leadership of Wolters Kluwer's U.S. professional market gives her direct influence over the tools that hundreds of thousands of tax and accounting professionals use daily.

Best for: Technology executive panels, software strategy conferences, and innovation leadership forums.

40. Jason Staats

Founder of Realize and Host of Jason Daily

Jason Staats is a CPA and serial entrepreneur known for his accessible and often humorous approach to accounting technology and firm management. He hosts the Jason Daily podcast and founded Realize, a community for accounting firm leaders. Staats brings credibility as both a practicing accountant and a technology builder.

Best for: Firm owner community events, technology adoption conferences, and audiences wanting an engaging and practical voice.

41. Ellen Choi

CEO, Edgefield Group, and Co-founder and Advisor, Aiwyn

Ellen Choi operates at the intersection of AI, innovation, and business transformation for CPA firms. Her work with both Edgefield Group and Aiwyn gives her visibility into how technology is changing firm economics and service delivery.

Best for: AI strategy consulting, firm transformation workshops, and innovation conferences.

42. Crystal Cooke

Director, Diversity and Inclusion, AICPA and CIMA

Crystal Cooke is a prominent voice on inclusion, representation, and profession pathways. Her role at the AICPA gives her unique influence over how the profession approaches diversity, talent development, and the pipeline crisis.

Best for: DEI conferences, talent pipeline events, and leadership development forums.

43. Bill Sheridan

Chief Communications Officer, Maryland Association of CPAs

Bill Sheridan is an influential content curator, speaker, and host of the Future Proof podcast. His role at the Maryland Association of CPAs gives him a state society perspective that is different from national voices. Sheridan is known for his forward thinking approach to profession communication.

Best for: State CPA society events, communication strategy workshops, and profession future conferences.

44. Justin Adams

CEO and Co-founder, Aiwyn

Justin Adams is a prominent voice on collections, payments, offshoring, PE, and AI era firm economics. As the co-founder of Aiwyn, he is building technology that addresses some of the most pressing operational challenges facing firms in 2026.

Best for: Firm operations conferences, payment technology events, and PE era strategy sessions.

45. Kimberly Blascoe

Senior Director, CAS Professional Services, CPA.com

Kimberly Blascoe is one of the most prominent CAS practice transformation specialists in the profession. Her work at CPA.com focuses on helping firms build, grow, and optimise client advisory services practices. She is publicly marketed for consulting, training, and speaking engagements.

Best for: CAS development workshops, practice transformation consulting, and advisory services conferences.

46. Davis Bell

CEO, Canopy

Davis Bell leads Canopy, a practice management platform that has attracted significant investment and attention for its AI enabled approach to firm efficiency. The company's $70 million Series C funding round underscores the market's appetite for technology that helps firms do more with less.

Best for: Technology investment panels, practice management conferences, and firm efficiency workshops.

47. Paul Griggs

US Senior Partner and CEO, PwC

Paul Griggs is one of the most visible Big Four leaders in the United States. His active LinkedIn and newsletter presence around leadership, AI, and firm strategy gives him influence beyond the traditional Big Four audience. Griggs represents the large firm perspective on profession direction.

Best for: Executive leadership forums, large firm strategy events, and marquee business conferences.

48. Jennifer Leary

CEO, CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen)

Jennifer Leary leads one of the largest mid market accounting firms in the United States. Her perspective on firm management, growth strategy, and talent development is relevant for leaders of firms at every scale.

Best for: Mid market firm leadership forums, growth strategy conferences, and managing partner events.

49. Rick Telberg

Founder and CEO, CPA Trendlines Research

Rick Telberg brings over 18 years of experience providing research and strategic insight to the accounting profession. His data driven approach to industry trends, firm economics, and strategic planning makes him a valuable resource for firms that want to make decisions based on evidence rather than anecdote.

Best for: Research presentations, firm strategy consulting, and data driven industry analysis events.

50. Sylvia Dion

Founder and Managing Tax Partner, PrietoDion Consulting Partners

Sylvia Dion brings over 25 years of experience specialising in State and Local Tax, making her one of the strongest SALT voices in the profession. Her expertise in e-commerce taxation and multi-state tax issues is particularly relevant as businesses navigate increasingly complex state level regulatory environments. Dion is a respected speaker, blogger, and contributor to leading tax journals.

Best for: SALT focused events, e-commerce tax conferences, and multi-state tax planning workshops.

Beyond Accounting Expertise: Who Should You Bring In to Help Your Team?

Every thought leader on this list brings deep accounting expertise. They can help your firm navigate AI, restructure your pricing, grow your advisory practice, or stay ahead of regulatory change. But there is a challenge that almost every accounting firm faces that none of these specialists were designed to solve: the people challenge.

Partner groups that struggle to align. Teams where communication breaks down under pressure. High performers who leave because the culture does not match their expectations. Mergers that fail not because the economics were wrong but because the people could not work together. Talented associates who never develop into leaders because nobody invested in their growth. These are not accounting problems. They are leadership problems. And they require a different kind of expertise.

That is why accounting firms across the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Singapore, India, and more bring in Jonno White, Certified Working Genius Facilitator, bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out with over 10,000 copies sold globally, and host of The Leadership Conversations Podcast with over 230 episodes reaching listeners in more than 150 countries. Jonno does not replace the accounting thought leaders on this list. He complements them by addressing the leadership and team dynamics that determine whether your firm's strategy actually gets executed.

Working Genius, created by Patrick Lencioni and completed by over 1.3 million people globally in less than five years, is the world's fastest growing team assessment. When Jonno facilitates it for an accounting firm partner group, the result is shared language for understanding why certain types of work energise some people and drain others. That insight alone has transformed how firms allocate work, run meetings, and make decisions. His Working Genius masterclass at the ASBA 2025 National Conference achieved a 93.75% satisfaction rating, one of the highest rated sessions at the event.

His book Step Up or Step Out tackles the difficult conversations that accounting leaders avoid, the performance issues that fester because nobody wants the confrontation, and the accountability gaps that cost firms their best people. It has sold over 10,000 copies globally and is available at https://www.amazon.com.au/Step-Up-Out-Difficult-Conflict/dp/B097X7B5LD.

Services include keynote speaking, Working Genius facilitation, DISC workshops, CliftonStrengths sessions, executive team offsites, leadership coaching, and MC services for accounting conferences and events. Available keynote topics include Step Up or Step Out: Conflict Without Confrontation, Replace Yourself: Transform Your Organisation Without Overwhelming Your Staff, Unity in Motion: Leading Through Rapid Change and Growth, Communication That Connects: Navigating Different Personalities, and Fuel or Drain? Finding the Energy Drivers That Propel You and Your Team.

International travel is often far more affordable than clients expect. Many organisations find that flying Jonno in costs less than engaging high profile local providers through speaker bureaus. Whether virtual or face to face, Jonno works with accounting firms to customise every session to their specific context. Jonno White is the founder of The 7 Questions Movement with over 6,000 participating leaders globally.

To bring Jonno White in to work with your accounting team, email jonno@consultclarity.org.

How to Choose the Right Accounting Thought Leader

Selecting the right thought leader to follow, hire, or engage requires clarity about what you need. If your firm is navigating a merger or PE conversation, Allan Koltin or Philip Whitman will be more relevant than a technology educator. If your challenge is building a tech stack, Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley are your people. If your team is struggling with communication, culture, or leadership effectiveness, those are not accounting problems, and you need someone who specialises in the people side. That is where Jonno White comes in.

Start by identifying whether you need a keynote speaker to inspire, a consultant to advise, a workshop facilitator to equip, or a thought leader to follow for ongoing education. Many people on this list offer multiple formats. Consider audience fit carefully. A speaker who excels at partner retreats may not connect with staff level audiences, and vice versa. Ask for video evidence of recent presentations to verify style and energy.

Red flags to watch for include speakers who only talk about themselves rather than delivering actionable content, keynotes that are thinly disguised product pitches, and consultants who cannot point to specific client outcomes. The best thought leaders on this list combine original ideas with practical application, and they can adapt their content to your specific context rather than delivering a generic script.

For more on selecting the right speaker for your next event, check out my blog post on keynote speakers for association conferences at https://www.consultclarity.org/post/keynote-speakers-association-conferences-california.

What to Expect: Investment Guide

Speaker and consultant fees in the accounting thought leadership space vary significantly. Emerging voices and niche specialists typically charge between $3,000 and $10,000 for a keynote. Established thought leaders with strong industry recognition, multiple books, and proven track records generally charge between $10,000 and $35,000. High profile names with national media presence or Big Four backgrounds can command $50,000 or more.

When evaluating investment, consider the total impact rather than just the fee. A speaker who delivers a forgettable hour costs your organisation far more in wasted attendee time and missed opportunity than a higher fee speaker who shifts how your team thinks and operates. Many thought leaders on this list also offer consulting, coaching, and workshop facilitation, which can extend the impact well beyond a single event.

For a custom quote from Jonno White for keynote speaking, Working Genius facilitation, or executive offsite facilitation for your accounting team, email jonno@consultclarity.org. International travel is often far more affordable than clients expect.

Key Trends Shaping Accounting Thought Leadership in 2026

The U.S. accounting profession is experiencing more simultaneous disruption than at any point in its modern history. Understanding these trends helps you evaluate which thought leaders are most relevant to your situation. CPA licensure reform moved from debate to implementation in 2025 when the AICPA and NASBA approved a new licensure pathway including a 120 hours plus two years route. This shift makes pipeline, talent, and early career development voices more important than ever.

AI has moved from experimentation to infrastructure. The conversation is no longer about whether AI will change accounting but about how to implement it, how to manage the controls, and how to communicate its impact to clients. Client advisory services continue to represent one of the clearest growth stories in the profession, with top firms projecting substantial growth over the next three years. Private equity is no longer edge case news, with PE backed firms heavily shaping consolidation and new platform formation across the market.

Offshoring and capacity redesign have become normal strategy conversations rather than controversial exceptions. And underpinning every one of these trends is the same reality: technical solutions only work when your people can execute them. Firms that invest in leadership development, team alignment, and communication alongside their technology and strategy investments are the ones that will thrive. For more on how leadership development connects to these industry shifts, check out my blog post on keynote speakers for AI and the future of work at https://www.consultclarity.org/post/keynote-speakers-ai-future-of-work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the best thought leaders in accounting in the USA?

The best accounting thought leaders in the USA include Tom Hood (AICPA), Allan Koltin (M&A and firm strategy), Blake Oliver (media and technology), Ron Baker (pricing), Jody Padar (innovation), Sandra Wiley (people strategy), and Kimberly Ellison-Taylor (technology and DEI). This directory covers 50 leaders across every specialisation in the profession.

How much does it cost to hire an accounting thought leader?

Fees range from $3,000 for emerging specialists to $50,000 or more for high profile names. Most established thought leaders charge between $10,000 and $35,000 for a keynote. Workshop and consulting engagements are typically priced separately. For a custom quote from Jonno White for leadership and team development work with your accounting team, email jonno@consultclarity.org.

Who should I hire to speak at an accounting conference?

The best choice depends on your audience and objectives. For technical audiences, Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley bring deep technology expertise. For firm owner retreats, Allan Koltin and Ron Baker deliver strategic content. For leadership and team development keynotes that complement accounting expertise, bring in Jonno White to facilitate a Working Genius workshop or deliver a keynote on building high performing teams.

Which accounting thought leaders are strongest on AI?

Blake Oliver, Danielle Supkis Cheek, Byron Patrick, Kacee Johnson, and Erik Asgeirsson are among the most informed voices on AI in accounting. For organisations wanting to address the leadership and people side of AI driven change, Jonno White delivers keynotes on leading through disruption that pair well with technical AI presentations.

What awards recognise the best accounting thought leaders?

The most recognised industry awards include Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting, CPA Practice Advisor's Top 25 Thought Leaders, the Most Powerful Women in Accounting jointly awarded by CPA Practice Advisor and AICPA, and INSIDE Public Accounting's Most Recommended Consultants.

Can I hire someone to help my accounting team with leadership development?

Yes. While the thought leaders on this list bring accounting expertise, many firms also need help with leadership, communication, and team dynamics. Bring in Jonno White, Certified Working Genius Facilitator and bestselling author, for Working Genius facilitation, DISC workshops, CliftonStrengths sessions, or executive team offsites designed specifically for accounting teams. Email jonno@consultclarity.org.

Which thought leaders are best for firm owner retreats?

Allan Koltin is exceptionally strong on M&A and PE strategy. Ron Baker is the leading voice on pricing transformation. Jennifer Wilson is excellent for succession planning. For the leadership and team dynamics component of your retreat, bring in Jonno White to give partner groups shared language and practical frameworks for working together more effectively.

Final Thoughts

The accounting profession in 2026 needs thought leaders who combine deep expertise with the ability to help firms take action. Reading articles and listening to podcasts is valuable, but the real transformation happens when you bring the right person into the room with your team. Every leader on this list has earned their place through sustained contribution to the profession.

Follow these 50 thought leaders to stay ahead of the trends shaping accounting. Hire them when you need accounting specific expertise in AI, pricing, CAS, tax, firm strategy, or technology. And when your team needs help with the people side, the leadership challenges, communication breakdowns, partner alignment, and culture gaps that hold most firms back, bring in Jonno White, Certified Working Genius Facilitator, bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out with over 10,000 copies sold globally, and trusted facilitator working with organisations around the world.

To bring Jonno White in to work with your accounting team, email jonno@consultclarity.org. International travel is often far more affordable than clients expect. Whether virtual or face to face, reach out to start the conversation.

About the Author

Jonno White is a Certified Working Genius Facilitator, bestselling author, and leadership consultant who has worked with schools, corporates, and nonprofits across the UK, India, Australia, Canada, Mongolia, New Zealand, Romania, Singapore, South Africa, USA, Finland, Namibia, and more. His book Step Up or Step Out has sold over 10,000 copies globally, and his podcast The Leadership Conversations has featured 230+ episodes reaching listeners in 150+ countries. Jonno founded The 7 Questions Movement with 6,000+ participating leaders and achieved a 93.75% satisfaction rating for his Working Genius masterclass at the ASBA 2025 National Conference. Based in Brisbane, Australia, Jonno works globally and regularly travels for speaking and facilitation engagements. Organisations consistently find that international travel is far more affordable than expected.

To book Jonno for your next keynote, workshop, or facilitation session, email jonno@consultclarity.org.

Next Read: 50 Best Keynote Speakers on AI and the Future of Work (2026)

This directory is the most comprehensive resource available for event planners, conference producers, HR leaders, and organisational decision makers searching for the best keynote speakers on AI and the future of work globally. It covers 50 speakers across multiple categories, evaluation criteria for selecting the right fit, fee guidance, and a step by step framework for making the right choice. One important note before we begin. Many organisations discover that the biggest challenge with AI transformation is not the technology itself but the leadership and people challenge that comes with it.

Keep reading: https://www.consultclarity.org/post/keynote-speakers-ai-future-of-work

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