Blogs
A natural moment to reflect
October 2026
Reaching my tenth year as CEO felt like a natural moment to reflect — not just on milestones, but on the people, relationships and values that have shaped the journey. This year also marks another significant achievement for our network: together, our member firms have surpassed $1 billion in combined revenue. While that figure is an important indicator of the strength and scale of our organisation, I see it as the result of something much more meaningful than financial performance alone.
When I took on the role a decade ago, I believed that a successful accounting network would never be built solely on systems, processes and statistics. Those things matter, of course, but they only create lasting success when underpinned by genuine human connection. Accounting is a relationship business, and so is leading a network of independent firms. Over the past ten years, one of my greatest priorities has been ensuring that our member firms feel connected — not simply to the organisation, but to one another. This is highlighted by the energy and engagement we witness at our in-person events.
For me, it has meant spending time listening before leading. Every firm has its own history, ambitions and challenges, and understanding those differences has helped us create an environment where collaboration is authentic. Whether through global conferences, regional events or countless individual conversations, I have always believed that leadership begins with being present and approachable. Trust is earned over time, and it grows through consistency, openness and a willingness to understand different perspectives.
As our network has expanded, maintaining that sense of community has become even more important. Growth inevitably brings complexity, but it should never come at the expense of culture. In fact, I would argue that culture becomes even more valuable as an organisation grows. We have worked deliberately to create an environment where people enjoy contributing, where ideas are welcomed, and where member firms feel that they are part of something bigger than themselves while still retaining their independence.
A positive workplace culture requires commitment, investment and leadership. I have always believed that people do their best work when they feel respected, trusted and empowered. Creating an environment where colleagues support one another, celebrate successes together and learn from challenges has been central to how we’ve operated over the past decade. When people feel connected to a shared purpose, that positivity naturally extends to the way we serve our member firms.
One of the questions I am often asked is how we decide whether a prospective firm is the right fit for our network. Technical capability and commercial success are certainly important, but they are only part of the picture. Cultural alignment has always been equally significant.
We look for firms that share our values of collaboration, integrity and continuous improvement. We want firms that are willing to contribute as much as they receive — firms that see the network not simply as a source of referrals or resources, but as a community where knowledge is shared openly and relationships are valued. The strongest partnerships are built on mutual trust and generosity, and those qualities cannot be measured solely by financial metrics.
That means we need to understand how the firm leads its people, how they work with clients and how they engage with their wider business community. Just as importantly, we encourage them to understand us. The right relationship should feel natural for both sides. When there is genuine cultural alignment, collaboration becomes easier, innovation happens more readily, and everyone benefits.
Looking back over the past ten years, I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together. Surpassing $1 billion in combined member firm revenue is a milestone worth celebrating because it reflects the collective success of outstanding independent firms around the world. Yet what gives me the greatest satisfaction is knowing that we have built a network where relationships matter, where people support one another, and where culture remains at the heart of every decision we make.
The accounting profession continues to evolve at pace. Technology, talent expectations and client needs are changing rapidly, and successful organisations will need to continue adapting. I believe our greatest strength lies not only in our expertise, but in our willingness to learn from one another and to build meaningful connections across borders, markets and cultures.
In my tenth year as CEO at Russell Bedford International, I remain as optimistic and energised as when I first stepped into the role. I am grateful for the trust of our member firms, the dedication of our team and the relationships that have developed over the years. Together, we have built something that extends far beyond a network of accounting firms. We have created a community founded on shared values, mutual respect and a commitment to helping one another succeed.
The $1 billion milestone is an important chapter in our story, but it is far from the final one. I believe the strongest years are still ahead of us, and I look forward to continuing the journey.