16th Annual International Accounting Forum 2026

Join leading senior players from the UK’s top Accountancy firms and International networks and Associations to collaborate upon the key themes impacting the sector and the opportunities for growth that they represent.

25

June

  • London, UK
  • Invitation only
  • Why attend?
  • 2025 Agenda
  • 2025 Speakers
  • Plan your visit
  • Event Gallery
  • 2025 Sponsors
  • Media Centre
  • 2025 Awards
  • Partner with us
  • Contact Us

2025 Featured Speakers

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Mark Lumsdon-Taylor​

Partner & Head of Sustainability ESG, MHA the UK Member firm Baker Tilly International

Mark is Partner at MHA Baker Tilly International (BTI) (Ranked 9th largest in the world) specialising in Global Assurance, Financial Turnaround, Fashion & Cosmetics, Food Manufacture & Rural Industries. He leads the MHA UK ESG Audit & Advisory function. He is also engaged in food retail, and consumer industries and a multi award winning turnaround specialist

Mark trained at Macintyre Hudson and has remained with the firm, aside from a 15 year in industry role, building a national educational commercial organisation investing over £100m, Employing 1300 staff, working with 1000s of national and international businesses, leverage GDP in the south east and enable nearly 78,000 students to be educated. He pioneered the world class sustainability Eco Project at Betteshanger park (Kent) (being the longest building in Europe at that time) in a £30m Regeneration project. Mark has been in the C-Suite understanding the challenges facing national and international businesses.

Mark has delivered numerous turnarounds from financial services through to rural businesses, and national institutions.

Mark Charis Rural Policy Group – a think tank and advocate for sustainable rural policy across the United Kingdom linking food & farming to public health and environmental sustainability. The policy group launched its National Green Futures Report in 2021 to set the foundations for a rural-first approach to economic policy-making for a more sustainable UK plc. He is directly connected into Westminster and works on a non partisan basis with government to support the industries MHA Serves.

Mark has won numerous awards for his work including National Finance Director of the year 2007, Accounting for sustainability National award 2012 (ICEAW), National Business Finance Director 2014 (Finance Director) and the Institute of Directors (IOD) blue ribbon award for Governance and Finance excellence in 2018.

He is a Liveryman in the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers, a Member of the Guild of Freemen, A member of the livery of Chartered Accountants, IoD South East Lead for ESG and a member of the CBI’s South East Council.

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Tony Sacre​

President & CEO, Allinial Global

With a wealth of experience in international business and strategic organizational development, Tony Sacre is building upon a 25-year career that includes senior executive roles within ANZ Banking Group, Commonwealth Bank, HSBC, JP Morgan, and National Australia Bank, as well as experience leading various financial markets, trade finance, and advisory businesses across the globe.

From 2018 to 2025 Mr. Sacre served as Chief Executive Officer of the Bentleys Network, Australia’s twelfth largest accounting firm with revenues in excess of 140 million AUD. There, he focused on enhancing capability and capacity within the network and driving developmental projects across all regions.

At Allinial Global Sacre is responsible for strategic planning, financial performance, and the association’s overall growth and success. With both CA and CPA credentials and experience serving on the association’s Global Executive Board and APAC Regional Board, he complements a primary strength of the Allinial Global leadership team—its deep, nuanced understanding of the accounting profession and the evolving needs of today’s independent accounting and advisory firms.

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Christos Christodoulou​

CEO, Delphi Alliance

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    Why attend?

    Engaging content: Through panels, presentations, case studies and Q&As explore the key topics and themes that are trending across the industry.

    Audience: Join a high-level audience of CEOs, CFOs, Partners, Policy & External Affairs Managers, Managing Directors, Project Directors and Strategy Advisors across accounting.

    Networking Opportunities: Meet with the influential leaders and decision makers and initiate powerful conversations and discover future potential partnerships that can help transform your business.

    High-level speakers: Hear from top accounting firms.

    Market Intelligence: Discuss regulatory demands and changes, discover how the industry has changed, what we can learn from these changes and navigate ever changing ESG principals and regulations.

    New technologies: Propel your business forward by meeting with key technology and solution providers who will be showcasing their platforms, software and digital tools tailored to help you succeed.

    The International Accounting Forum & Awards will serve as a platform to collaborate, learn, and contribute to the latest insights across accounting.

    WHAT TO EXPECT FOR 2025?

     

    200+

    Attendees to meet each year

    		15+

    Exhibitors to meet each year

    		20+

    Speakers

    		70%

    Attendees at Director+ level
    200+

    Attendees to meet each year

    		15+

    Exhibitors to meet each year
    20+

    Speakers

    		70%

    Attendees at Director+ level

    Testimonials

    2024 highlights

    2025 Agenda

    • 25 Jun 2026
    Expand All

    Streams

    Stream one

    stream A

    8 AM

    Registration

    8:40 AM

    Chair’s opening remarks

    Speakers

    Sasha Qadri
    Host & Moderator

    8:50 AM

    Setting the Scene & Welcome Address

    Speakers

    Zoya Malik
    Editor-in-Chief, International Accounting Bulletin

    SESSION 1: Global Trends – Shaping Today, Transforming Tomorrow

    9 AM

    Fireside Chat: Accounting in 2025: Insights and Opportunities in a Changing Economy

    Speakers

    Emily Ellison
    Technical Director, Mercia Group
    Christopher Granville
    Managing Director, Global Political Research, GlobalData TS Lombard
    Coco K. Liu
    Chief Growth Officer, HLB International

    9:20 AM

    The Unspoken Impact of Private Equity

    Speakers

    Tony Szczepaniak
    CEO, LEA Global

    9:40 AM

    Credibility in Delivering ESG Assurance and Advisory Services

    • Regulation regulation regulation
    • Credibility and experience
    • What clients want

    Speakers

    Mark Lumsdon-Taylor
    Partner & Head of Sustainability ESG, MHA the UK Member firm Baker Tilly International

    10 AM

    Panel Discussion: Reshaping the Future of Business Leaders – Insights from Trends and Issues Impacting the Profession

    Speakers

    Sasha Qadri
    Host & Moderator
    Mark Lumsdon-Taylor
    Partner & Head of Sustainability ESG, MHA the UK Member firm Baker Tilly International

    10:30 AM

    Networking & Refreshment Break

    SESSION 2: Revitalising Firm Structure

    11 AM

    HLB Cares: Responsible Business Practices

    Speakers

    Stephanie Rix
    Chief People Officer, Chief People Officer HLB International

    11:20 AM

    Digital Audit: Buzzword to Reality

    Firms know that digital audit is essential - but moving from intention to real implementation is often the hardest part. In this focused, practical session, David Goode provides a clear roadmap to bring digital audit to life in your firm. Drawing on real-world examples and hands-on experience, David will show you what a modern digital audit process looks like, the steps required to get started, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Whether your firm is just starting its digital journey or looking to accelerate progress, this session delivers the practical guidance you need to achieve meaningful results.
    During this session you will:
    1. Learn what effective digital audit looks like in action, including practical tools and workflows used by leading firms today
    2. Discover a proven approach for evaluating, selecting, and rolling out digital audit technology tailored to your firm’s needs
    3. Gain insight into the typical challenges firms face and how to address them, ensuring a smoother and more successful transition

    Speakers

    David Goode
    Head of Workpapers Solutions, Inflo 

    11:40 AM

    Future-Proofing Accounting Firms: AI, Automation, and the Evolving Role of Accountants

    Speakers

    Tony Sacre
    President & CEO, Allinial Global

    12 PM

    Panel Discussion: The Evolution of Accounting Firms: Strategy, Innovation & Market Leadership

    Speakers

    Sasha Qadri
    Host & Moderator
    David Goode
    Head of Workpapers Solutions, Inflo 
    Christos Christodoulou
    CEO, Delphi Alliance
    Tony Sacre
    President & CEO, Allinial Global
    Stephanie Rix
    Chief People Officer, Chief People Officer HLB International

    12:30 PM

    Panel Discussion: Balancing Quality and Growth in Your Global Business

    In today’s competitive international landscape, scaling your practice is crucial for sustained success across diverse markets. Whether through strategic partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, or organic growth, each approach presents unique challenges. Rapid expansion can put a strain on your processes, personnel, and systems, increasing risks if not managed effectively.

    In this session, we will examine potential quality issues that may arise during global business growth and discuss essential strategies for maintaining control. We will also highlight the importance of continuing to invest in your team’s development to ensure they can navigate the complexities of international markets.

     

    Speakers

    Jenny Faulkner
    Head of Audit, Accounting & Compliance, Mercia Group
    Jon Lisby
    CEO, Global Alliance Advisers
    Barinder Chadha
    National Head of Audit, TC Group
    Ryan Piper
    CEO, Morison Global

    1:15 PM

    Lunch & Networking Break

    SESSION 3: Opportunities and Challenges in Tech Adoption

    2 PM

    The AI Edge: Partnering for Accounting’s Next Era

    Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept; it's a present-day imperative for accounting firms. But building bespoke AI solutions in-house requires significant resources and expertise, often beyond the reach of many. This session explores how firms can strategically leverage technology vendors to accelerate their AI adoption, focusing on the power of partnerships. We'll explore how to streamline vendor selection, mitigate risk, accelerate innovation and unlock the transformative potential of AI for your practice.
    Key Takeaways:
    • The AI Imperative: Why Now? Understand the critical role of AI in modern accounting and the opportunities it presents for efficiency, accuracy, and client service.
    • Vendor-Powered AI: A Strategic Shortcut: Explore how partnering with specialized AI vendors can bypass the complexities of in-house development.
    • Navigating the AI Vendor Landscape: Learn to identify and evaluate AI vendors, focusing on industry-specific solutions and proven track records.
    • The Power of Affinity: Network showcase. Highlight how initiatives like HLB's Affinity program streamline vendor selection, negotiate favorable terms, and ensure quality control.
    • Real-World AI Applications: Explore practical examples of AI in accounting, including automated auditing, fraud detection, and predictive analytics.
    • Building a Collaborative AI Ecosystem: Understand how to foster strong vendor relationships and create a sustainable AI strategy for your firm.
    Why Attend?
    This session is designed to empower accounting firms to:
    • Accelerate AI adoption without significant in-house development.
    • Reduce the risk and complexity of vendor selection.
    • Prioritize speed and agility to accelerate innovation.
    • Gain a deeper understanding of the future of AI in the accounting profession.
    Join us to discover how strategic vendor partnerships and innovative programs like HLB's Marketplace can pave the way for a future where AI empowers your firm to thrive.

    Speakers

    Jim Bourke
    Global Technology Advisory Services Leader, HLB International
    Andrew Park
    Head of Strategic Markets, Suralink
    Michael Turner
    CEO, Validis
    Andrew Guy
    CEO, FD Intelligence

    2:20 PM

    Closing the Client Readiness Gap: How Technology Drives Realization & Engagement Efficiency

    Engagement efficiency remains a challenge for firms striving to hit realization targets and keep engagements on budget. One of the biggest obstacles? The client readiness gap—the time it takes for clients to fulfill document requests correctly. We’ll explore:

    • The Current State of Engagement Efficiency: How delays, miscommunication, and incomplete client responses impact realization and overall profitability.
    • The Role of Technology: How modern request and document management solutions can streamline workflows, improve collaboration, and reduce inefficiencies.
    • A Sneak Peek at What’s Next: A look at Suralink’s upcoming innovations designed to further optimize engagements

    Speakers

    Andrew Park
    Head of Strategic Markets, Suralink

    2:40 PM

    AI Customer Boards: How Firms & Corporations Are Forming AI Focus Groups to Exchange Best Practices

    As AI transforms the accounting landscape, leading firms and corporations are no longer navigating this shift in isolation—they’re forming AI customer boards and focus groups to collaborate, exchange best practices, and guide responsible innovation. In this session, Jacob Sperry, VP of CX of Trullion, will explore how organizations are structuring these advisory groups to evaluate emerging technologies, align AI strategies with real client needs, and shape the future of automation in audit and finance. Drawing on insights from cross-industry leaders and early adopters, this session offers a strategic view into how collaborative governance and peer-to-peer dialogue can accelerate impact. Real-time case studies and a live demo will showcase how firms are operationalizing these principles using Trullion’s AI-powered platform.

    Speakers

    Jacob Sperry
    VP of Customer Experience, Trullion

    3 PM

    Panel Discussion: Creating the Accountant’s Tech Toolkit – Firsthand Experiences of Tech Implementation

    Speakers

    Sasha Qadri
    Host & Moderator
    Jim Bourke
    Global Technology Advisory Services Leader, HLB International
    Jacob Sperry
    VP of Customer Experience, Trullion
    Andrew Park
    Head of Strategic Markets, Suralink

    3:30 PM

    Networking & Refreshment Break

    SESSION 4: Creating the Firm of the Future

    4 PM

    Innovating Experience: How HLB is Rethinking Client Value

    Colin Nelson, Innovation Consultant at Hype Innovation and Lesley Hornung, CMO at HLB explore how innovation and client experience are converging to shape the future of professional services. Hear how HLB is equipping its global network to deliver lasting value for clients in a fast-changing world.

    Speakers

    Lesley Hornung
    Chief Marketing Officer, HLB International
    Colin Nelson
    Innovation Consultant, Hype Innovation

    4:20 PM

    Audit Talent Strategy for the Future – Solving the Talent Gap, Scaling with Quality

    Speakers

    Kim Hayward
    Member of The Strategic Advisory Board, GroWize

    4:40 PM

    Equality, Diversity and Inclusion – Making a Difference for People, Making a Difference for Businesses

    Speakers

    Julia Penny
    ICAEW Past President, JS Penny Ltd and Accountingcpd

    5 PM

    Panel Discussion – The Future of Accounting Firms – What Does this Look Like? Innovation, Talent, and Inclusive Leadership

    Speakers

    Sasha Qadri
    Host & Moderator
    Calvin Au Yeung
    Co-founder and Partner, GroWize
    Julia Penny
    ICAEW Past President, JS Penny Ltd and Accountingcpd
    Kim Hayward
    Member of The Strategic Advisory Board, GroWize
    Lesley Hornung
    Chief Marketing Officer, HLB International

    5:30 PM

    Conference Close

    6:30 PM

    Drinks Reception

    7:45 PM

    Awards & Dinner

    2025 Speakers

    Select a speaker to learn more

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    Christos Christodoulou
    CEO, Delphi Alliance

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: The Evolution of Accounting Firms: Strategy, Innovation & Market Leadership

    2025-06-26, 12:00 PM

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    Tony Szczepaniak
    CEO, LEA Global

    Session Details:

    The Unspoken Impact of Private Equity

    2025-06-26, 9:20 AM

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    Tony Sacre
    President & CEO, Allinial Global

    With a wealth of experience in international business and strategic organizational development, Tony Sacre is building upon a 25-year career that includes senior executive roles within ANZ Banking Group, Commonwealth Bank, HSBC, JP Morgan, and National Australia Bank, as well as experience leading various financial markets, trade finance, and advisory businesses across the globe.

    From 2018 to 2025 Mr. Sacre served as Chief Executive Officer of the Bentleys Network, Australia’s twelfth largest accounting firm with revenues in excess of 140 million AUD. There, he focused on enhancing capability and capacity within the network and driving developmental projects across all regions.

    At Allinial Global Sacre is responsible for strategic planning, financial performance, and the association’s overall growth and success. With both CA and CPA credentials and experience serving on the association’s Global Executive Board and APAC Regional Board, he complements a primary strength of the Allinial Global leadership team—its deep, nuanced understanding of the accounting profession and the evolving needs of today’s independent accounting and advisory firms.

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: The Evolution of Accounting Firms: Strategy, Innovation & Market Leadership

    2025-06-26, 12:00 PM

    Session Details:

    Future-Proofing Accounting Firms: AI, Automation, and the Evolving Role of Accountants

    2025-06-26, 11:40 AM

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    David Goode
    Head of Workpapers Solutions, Inflo 

    David Goode is the Head of Workpapers Solutions at Inflo, where he leads the advancement of innovative tools that transform audit practices. A Chartered Accountant (ICAEW ACA) with over a decade of experience, David specializes in audit technology, data-driven methodologies, and practice management. Since joining Inflo in 2022 from Haysmacintyre, he has leveraged his expertise to support firms in successfully implementing Inflo’s solutions, while championing feedback-driven product improvements. Passionate about enhancing audit quality and efficiency, David is dedicated to empowering firms with cutting-edge technology and delivering lasting value to clients and teams alike.

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: The Evolution of Accounting Firms: Strategy, Innovation & Market Leadership

    2025-06-26, 12:00 PM

    Session Details:

    Digital Audit: Buzzword to Reality

    2025-06-26, 11:20 AM

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    Stephanie Rix
    Chief People Officer, Chief People Officer HLB International

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: The Evolution of Accounting Firms: Strategy, Innovation & Market Leadership

    2025-06-26, 12:00 PM

    Session Details:

    HLB Cares: Responsible Business Practices

    2025-06-26, 11:00 AM

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    Mark Lumsdon-Taylor
    Partner & Head of Sustainability ESG, MHA the UK Member firm Baker Tilly International

    Mark is Partner at MHA Baker Tilly International (BTI) (Ranked 9th largest in the world) specialising in Global Assurance, Financial Turnaround, Fashion & Cosmetics, Food Manufacture & Rural Industries. He leads the MHA UK ESG Audit & Advisory function. He is also engaged in food retail, and consumer industries and a multi award winning turnaround specialist

    Mark trained at Macintyre Hudson and has remained with the firm, aside from a 15 year in industry role, building a national educational commercial organisation investing over £100m, Employing 1300 staff, working with 1000s of national and international businesses, leverage GDP in the south east and enable nearly 78,000 students to be educated. He pioneered the world class sustainability Eco Project at Betteshanger park (Kent) (being the longest building in Europe at that time) in a £30m Regeneration project. Mark has been in the C-Suite understanding the challenges facing national and international businesses.

    Mark has delivered numerous turnarounds from financial services through to rural businesses, and national institutions.

    Mark Charis Rural Policy Group – a think tank and advocate for sustainable rural policy across the United Kingdom linking food & farming to public health and environmental sustainability. The policy group launched its National Green Futures Report in 2021 to set the foundations for a rural-first approach to economic policy-making for a more sustainable UK plc. He is directly connected into Westminster and works on a non partisan basis with government to support the industries MHA Serves.

    Mark has won numerous awards for his work including National Finance Director of the year 2007, Accounting for sustainability National award 2012 (ICEAW), National Business Finance Director 2014 (Finance Director) and the Institute of Directors (IOD) blue ribbon award for Governance and Finance excellence in 2018.

    He is a Liveryman in the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers, a Member of the Guild of Freemen, A member of the livery of Chartered Accountants, IoD South East Lead for ESG and a member of the CBI’s South East Council.

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: Reshaping the Future of Business Leaders – Insights from Trends and Issues Impacting the Profession

    2025-06-26, 10:00 AM

    Session Details:

    Credibility in Delivering ESG Assurance and Advisory Services

    2025-06-26, 9:40 AM

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    Julia Penny
    ICAEW Past President, JS Penny Ltd and Accountingcpd

    Julia Penny was President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) in 2022-23, having been a non-executive ICAEW Board member since 2017 and Chair of the Board during her year as President. Julia was a member of ICAEW Council from 2013 until June 2025 and chaired and participated in many ICAEW committees, including the National Technical Advisory Committee. She is also a Technical Advisor to the ICAEW’s Board member on IFAC and an honorary member of CIPFA. She previously sat on  the AAT’s Council and audit committee.

    Outside of this volunteer ICAEW involvement Julia is a well-known speaker and writer on audit, financial reporting, anti-money laundering and wider issues impacting the profession.

    Julia is passionate about audit quality, compliance and a well-functioning profession. This includes a sharp focus on improving diversity, developing the use of technology and constantly reflecting on the need for businesses to become sustainable and how the professions can help achieve this.

    Session Details:

    Equality, Diversity and Inclusion – Making a Difference for People, Making a Difference for Businesses

    2025-06-26, 4:40 PM

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion – The Future of Accounting Firms – What Does this Look Like? Innovation, Talent, and Inclusive Leadership

    2025-06-26, 5:00 PM

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    Zoya Malik
    Editor-in-Chief, International Accounting Bulletin

    Session Details:

    Setting the Scene & Welcome Address

    2025-06-26, 8:50 AM

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    Kamlesh Thadeshwar
    Co-founder and Partner, GroWize

    He co-founded GroWize to support growing and mid-tier audit firms in the UK and US, helping them address talent shortages and audit quality challenges - issues he encountered firsthand during his own professional journey.

    A qualified Chartered Accountant with over 14 years of experience in external audit, Kamlesh has worked with global clients across the UK, US, Europe, India, and Australia. Having been part of leading firms like Grant Thornton, KPMG, and PwC in both the UK and India, he has experienced firsthand the journey large firms have navigated over the past decade—including the challenges they faced. Through GroWize, he is now focused on helping growing and mid-tier firms overcome those very challenges with smarter, scalable solutions.

    His expertise spans multiple industries - supporting high-growth start-ups, mid-sized enterprises, and multinational corporations through intricate audits under UK and US GAAP, IFRS, and Ind AS. With a strong track record of leading complex group and component audits, Kamlesh consistently delivers quality, compliance, and strategic insight.

    He has built and led high-performing audit teams across regions, effectively navigating cultural nuances to drive collaboration, enhance efficiency, and deliver long-term value.

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    Calvin Au Yeung
    Co-founder and Partner, GroWize

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion – The Future of Accounting Firms – What Does this Look Like? Innovation, Talent, and Inclusive Leadership

    2025-06-26, 5:00 PM

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    Sasha Qadri
    Host & Moderator

    With a background in television news, having anchored for Sky and produced / reported for other global networks including CNN, Bloomberg and CNBC, Sasha is a seasoned presenter and interviewer. She works across industries at the intersection of business, finance and technology. Sasha has facilitated many conversations on adopting and leveraging AI and tech transformation more broadly, frequently interviewing senior leaders from HPE to IBM and Microsoft amongst others.

    Recent interviews include the Former Chancellor Philip Hammond, leading AI expert Mo Gawdat, the CEO of Strava, Mike Martin, the Head of GCHQ, Anne Keast-Butler and many more in the world of business and technology.

    Events throughout 2024 included co-hosting at London Tech Week, emceeing at Money 20/20 in Europe, chairing the Innovate Finance Global Summit, and consumer technology event Leap, where Sasha was one of the main stage moderators. Other events include Connected Britain, Retail Week Live, The Next Web, The Financial Times Global Insurance Summit and The London Gatwick Economic Summit.

    Sasha started her career in investment banking, and frequently works with financial institutions. She also spent several years as a Senior Programming Director at Bloomberg Live, where she curated and moderated flagship business and technology events. Sasha studied Social and Political Sciences at Cambridge University and spent her gap year studying at The Sorbonne.

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: The Evolution of Accounting Firms: Strategy, Innovation & Market Leadership

    2025-06-26, 12:00 PM

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: Reshaping the Future of Business Leaders – Insights from Trends and Issues Impacting the Profession

    2025-06-26, 10:00 AM

    Session Details:

    Chair’s opening remarks

    2025-06-26, 8:40 AM

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion – The Future of Accounting Firms – What Does this Look Like? Innovation, Talent, and Inclusive Leadership

    2025-06-26, 5:00 PM

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: Creating the Accountant’s Tech Toolkit – Firsthand Experiences of Tech Implementation

    2025-06-26, 3:00 PM

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    Apurva Mehta
    Co-founder, Growize

    Apurva co-founded GroWize to help audit firms in the UK and US solve one of the profession’s most pressing challenges: the shortage of skilled audit talent. Having spent over a decade delivering complex audits across geographies, he recognized the growing strain on mid-tier and growing firms to maintain quality, meet deadlines, and scale sustainably—especially in the face of evolving standards and private equity demands. GroWize is his response: a strategic talent partner offering firms the audit-specific support they need to compete at the highest level.

    A qualified Chartered Accountant with 12+ years of experience, Apurva started his career at Deloitte and later joined Grant Thornton, working across diverse sectors including technology, retail, hospitality, and green energy. His hands-on experience spans across US & UK GAAP, IFRS. He is known for his rigorous approach to audit quality, strong stakeholder management, and ability to tailor solutions to a client’s unique risk profile and operating environment.

    Throughout his career, Apurva has successfully built and led international audit teams, delivering high-stakes audits while navigating cultural complexities and time zone challenges. Now, through GroWize, he is focused on helping firms reimagine how they build capacity—by leveraging offshore talent in a way that is compliant, efficient, and aligned with long-term quality goals. His mission: to elevate audit delivery standards while future-proofing firms against the industry’s most critical resourcing risks.

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    Jim Bourke
    Global Technology Advisory Services Leader, HLB International

    Jim is HLB’s Global Technology Advisory Services Leader and has over 30 years of experience in the sector. He frequently meets with our regional technology leaders around the globe to share best practices and to help insure consistency in technology advisory offerings by our member firms.

    Jim is also a Partner, Member of the Board of Directors and Management Committee at Withum, is Director of Firm Technology and Managing Director of Advisory Services. He leads the cloud solutions, business advisory, cyber, data analytics, info-security and transactional services initiatives for the firm.

    Jim is a frequent speaker around the globe for HLB and many Accounting Societies and International Accounting and Trade Associations, the AICPA, Industry Technology Organizations, Incubators, Accelerators and others on topics specifically related to various accounting, technology, practice management and advisory services topics.

    Jim has been continually named by Accounting Today as one of the Top 100 Most Influential people in the Accounting profession and has been named by The CPA Technology Advisor as a Top Thought Leader in Public Accounting Technology year after year.

    Session Details:

    The AI Edge: Partnering for Accounting’s Next Era

    2025-06-26, 2:00 PM

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: Creating the Accountant’s Tech Toolkit – Firsthand Experiences of Tech Implementation

    2025-06-26, 3:00 PM

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    Kim Hayward
    Member of The Strategic Advisory Board, GroWize

    Kim is on strategic advisory board at GroWize. He is a Chartered Accountant and a former Audit partner with EY and BDO. He was BDO’s International Liaison Partner for 10 years until he retired in 2021. During this period he visited India a number of times; he was a director of BDO’s previous member firm and instrumental in helping BDO International find a new member firm in 2013, which has since grown from 250 people to 9,000 across 12 key cities.

    Session Details:

    Audit Talent Strategy for the Future – Solving the Talent Gap, Scaling with Quality

    2025-06-26, 4:20 PM

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion – The Future of Accounting Firms – What Does this Look Like? Innovation, Talent, and Inclusive Leadership

    2025-06-26, 5:00 PM

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    Jacob Sperry
    VP of Customer Experience, Trullion

    Jacob Sperry, VP of Customer Experience of Trullion, helps top finance and accounting teams to automate processes. As a seasoned leader in the industry, Jacob previously led the Customer Experience organization at CaptivateIQ, and was a Partner at Connor Group, leading the Salt Lake City office's Technical Accounting and IPO Services team. Jacob began his accounting career at the Financial Accounting Standard Board, then PwC, and holds a Master of Accountancy from Brigham Young University, and was a licensed CPA in New York.

    Session Details:

    AI Customer Boards: How Firms & Corporations Are Forming AI Focus Groups to Exchange Best Practices

    2025-06-26, 2:40 PM

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: Creating the Accountant’s Tech Toolkit – Firsthand Experiences of Tech Implementation

    2025-06-26, 3:00 PM

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    Andrew Park
    Head of Strategic Markets, Suralink

    Andrew Park has spent more than a decade designing, deploying, and consulting on customer experience programs for global Fortune 1000 companies. Andrew provides strategic counsel to his clients, architecting and evolving their customer experience initiatives to deliver maximum business and relationship impact. In his current role as Head of Strategic Markets, he oversees the Go To Market, partnership, and customer experience initiatives for Suralink’s highest priority markets.  He is CCXP certified, a recipient of CXPA CX Impact Award, the author of several white papers, an experienced speaker, and regularly contributes to public conversations about customer experience in forums like the Huffington Post, Inc, and Forbes.

    Session Details:

    The AI Edge: Partnering for Accounting’s Next Era

    2025-06-26, 2:00 PM

    Session Details:

    Closing the Client Readiness Gap: How Technology Drives Realization & Engagement Efficiency

    2025-06-26, 2:20 PM

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: Creating the Accountant’s Tech Toolkit – Firsthand Experiences of Tech Implementation

    2025-06-26, 3:00 PM

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    Lesley Hornung
    Chief Marketing Officer, HLB International

    Lesley Hornung is the Chief Marketing Officer at HLB International, where she leads the network's global marketing and brand strategy. With over a decade of marketing experience across professional services and a career spanning three countries, Lesley brings a deep understanding of cultural nuances in international business. Her expertise lies in crafting impactful brand strategies through innovative thought leadership and market insights.

    Lesley spearheads HLB’s flagship global Survey of Business Leaders and is a frequent speaker at international and regional conferences, where she champions data-driven marketing approaches and fosters global collaboration. She holds an MSc in International Marketing from King’s College London, a BA in Communications, and a Propaedeutic Diploma in Journalism. Lesley is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

    Session Details:

    Innovating Experience: How HLB is Rethinking Client Value

    2025-06-26, 4:00 PM

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion – The Future of Accounting Firms – What Does this Look Like? Innovation, Talent, and Inclusive Leadership

    2025-06-26, 5:00 PM

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    Colin Nelson
    Innovation Consultant, Hype Innovation

    Colin Nelson is the Chief Innovation Consultant at HYPE Innovation, the global leader in innovation management. Colin’s a thought leader on collective intelligence, online innovation, and open innovation, helping to connect people, ideas, and data.

    He helps both companies and communities to engage diverse thinking in support of innovation programmes, harnessing both the workforce and an organisations entire eco-system.

    Colin has supported MBA teaching programmes at Exeter and Durham Business Schools.

    His clients have included: Airbus, BASF, Harley-Davidson, Linklaters, NASA, the NBA, PWC, the United Nations, and Unilever.

    Session Details:

    Innovating Experience: How HLB is Rethinking Client Value

    2025-06-26, 4:00 PM

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    Jenny Faulkner
    Head of Audit, Accounting & Compliance, Mercia Group

    Jenny is Head of our A&A and Compliance division and oversees our file review service, technical queries, manuals and all of our A&A training. Jenny is passionate about quality and ensures all of our A&A and Compliance products and services are technically sound and fit for purpose. Jenny has worked for Mercia for over 12 years and has held many positions within the A&A team including, Head of Manuals, Team Lead File Reviews and a lecturer.

    Jenny sits on the ICAEW ISA Panel, which closely tracks and inputs into IAASB developments and its work programme. It focuses on the development of new and proposed revisions to auditing and assurance standards and contributes to the development of ICAEW policy on relevant audit and assurance matters. In order to stay practical at Mercia, Jenny performs file reviews and occasionally lectures.

    Before joining Mercia, Jenny was an Audit Manager with Deloitte in their Nottingham office where she was involved in a range of clients from small owner managed businesses through to large listed international businesses and this covered providing audit, accounts and advisory services.

    Jenny spends most of her time out of work looking after her young family and lively dog.

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: Balancing Quality and Growth in Your Global Business

    2025-06-26, 12:30 PM

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    Emily Ellison
    Technical Director, Mercia Group

    Emily is our Technical Services Director responsible for the delivery of our training courses, file review services, technical manuals and consultancy services. Emily is supported by our team of technical consultants across tax, audit and accounting. Before joining Mercia in 2010, Emily was with KPMG for nine years working in both tax and audit.

    Session Details:

    Fireside Chat: Accounting in 2025: Insights and Opportunities in a Changing Economy

    2025-06-26, 9:00 AM

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    Christopher Granville
    Managing Director, Global Political Research, GlobalData TS Lombard

    Session Details:

    Fireside Chat: Accounting in 2025: Insights and Opportunities in a Changing Economy

    2025-06-26, 9:00 AM

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    Michael Turner
    CEO, Validis
    Michael's career has been shaped by his passion for solving problems with the use of data and technology. With over 13 years at Oliver Wyman, where he served as a Partner and Head of the London office, he gained extensive consulting expertise. However, it was during his tenure at Coalition Greenwich, a data analytics specialist firm, that he witnessed firsthand the transformative power of data-driven insights enabled by cutting-edge fintech solutions and the pivotal role these technologies play in driving innovation. 
    Today, Michael is the CEO of Validis, a leading fintech that harnesses the power of technology to unlock financial data insights for accounting firms, financial services organizations, and small businesses. Michael firmly believes that leveraging data-driven insights through innovative technologies is crucial for delivering exceptional customer experiences and fostering more rewarding jobs. 

    Session Details:

    The AI Edge: Partnering for Accounting’s Next Era

    2025-06-26, 2:00 PM

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    Jon Lisby
    CEO, Global Alliance Advisers

    Global Alliance Advisory Services www.globalallianceadvisers.com +44(0)7850 660983

    Jon is the founder of Global Alliance Advisory Services (“GAAS”), the leadership support consultancy
    uniquely dedicated to serve international accounting networks and associations. The GAAS team
    comprises former CEOs and Executives based in the UK, Mainland Europe, and the USA.
    GAAS focuses on the development and implementation of growth strategies, facilitating merger
    opportunities and assisting across the broadest range of operational issues for central offices. For
    networks, GAAS offers an outsourced global quality management, monitoring and inspection service.
    Managing global independence reporting effectively is a major issue for the networks and GAAS was
    instrumental in the development of the Zenzero Global Alliance Hub which utilises the Microsoft
    Power Platform and Microsoft 365 to deliver a cost effective cloud-based solution to fully automate
    the process. The module can also be applied to gather and collate information from the global
    membership such as the IAB survey requirements.

    Jon is best known from his days as CEO of Kreston International which he led for 13 years until 2019
    having previously been Managing Partner of a 9 office UK practice. During his long career in the
    profession, Jon has managed accounting practices at every level - regional, national, and global.

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: Balancing Quality and Growth in Your Global Business

    2025-06-26, 12:30 PM

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    Ryan Piper
    CEO, Morison Global

    As Morison Global’s CEO, Ryan leads the implementation and ongoing development of our strategy focusing on delivering measurable benefits to our members and supporting members in their development and growth. He has over 20 years of expertise in firm strategy, commerciality, and driving sustainable growth having worked for a number of global accounting firms and networks. Ryan has as LLB (Hons) Law degree as well as a certificate in Leading Professional Service Firms from the Harvard Business School.

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: Balancing Quality and Growth in Your Global Business

    2025-06-26, 12:30 PM

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    Barinder Chadha
    National Head of Audit, TC Group

    Barinder joined TC Group in 2024 as Head of Audit, with 30 years’ experience in audit quality, risk management and is eager to help shape the future of our audit service.

    Barinder has a proven track record in leading initiatives to improve audit culture, enhance methodology, elevating audit quality, embedding professional scepticism, delivering training, driving digital transformation all whilst ensuring compliance.

    Session Details:

    Panel Discussion: Balancing Quality and Growth in Your Global Business

    2025-06-26, 12:30 PM

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    Coco K. Liu
    Chief Growth Officer, HLB International

    Winner of CEO Asia Awards, a visionary achiever and inspirational leader, with excellent track record in strategic planning and international business development.

    MBA with distinction, thought leader, with proven ability to create synergies through collaborations, to build competitive edge by leading multi-cultural teams.

    Session Details:

    Fireside Chat: Accounting in 2025: Insights and Opportunities in a Changing Economy

    2025-06-26, 9:00 AM

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    Andrew Guy
    CEO, FD Intelligence

    Andy is an accomplished technology leader with over 25 years of experience delivering cutting-edge IT solutions to the accountancy sector. Driven by a passion for transforming business performance through intelligent systems, he founded FD Intelligence in 2020 to pioneer the use of AI in automating tax and accounting processes.

    Under Andy’s leadership, FD Intelligence has become a recognised innovator in the UK’s Intelligent Automation space - developing AI-powered solutions that streamline routine, high-volume tasks and unlock real-time efficiency gains. The companies technology enables clients to shift focus from manual processing to high-value strategic work, accelerating both productivity and profitability.

    Session Details:

    The AI Edge: Partnering for Accounting’s Next Era

    2025-06-26, 2:00 PM

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    Plan your visit

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    Make the most out of your experience at the 15th Annual International Accounting Forum by staying at the heart got the action. We have secured a 10% exclusive discounted rate at the Hilton London Metropole for attendees of our event. Dates available from 25-27 June. Choose to stay for the full event duration or book just one night to suit your schedule.

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    2025 Awards

    International Accounting Awards 2025

    International Accounting Awards is the industry’s foremost recognition of excellence, attracting entries from all over the region and recognising the campaigns, accounting firms, along with regulators, and industry bodies, consultancies and advisories, law firms, technology providers, and individuals that define the cutting edge of work in the accounting arena. The gala awards presentation dinner has grown to be the premier event in the accounting calendar.

    Find out our finalist and winners on our new website here. 

    Partner with us

    The International Accounting Forum & Awards brings together senior players from the UK’s top Accountancy firms and International networks and Associations. Our audience includes the likes of KPMG, Baker Tilly, Goodman Jones, Moore and PWC.

    By choosing to partner with us, you can expect fruitful opportunity to network and connect face-to-face with key decision makers within the industry. We bring the right people under one roof to ensure that your brand is seen directly by an exclusive audience of senior buyers. With extended networking breaks, a dedicated exhibition area within the venue, and a prestigious awards ceremony in the evening there is plentiful opportunity to meet and collaborate with new people, develop meaningful connections and form long-lasting partnerships.

     

    BRANDING

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    THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

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    Directly address your audience.

    LEAD GENERATION

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    Create viable new business opportunities with decision makers.

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    Media Centre

    International Accounting Bulletin

    The Accountant

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    Director of Events

    +44 (0) 20 3096 2585

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    Nina Beddoe

    Conference Producer

    +44 20 4540 7650

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    Madelayne Goodall

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    To enquire about sponsorship opportunities for the conference, please contact

    Ray Giddings

    Director of Events


    +44 (0)20 7936 6512 M. +44 (0)7803 393327

    SPEAKER ENQUIRIES

    To enquire about speaking opportunities for the conference, please contact:

    Nina Beddoe

    Conference Producer


    +44 20 4540 7650