Client accounting services continue to grow across the profession, but what standards apply when firms step into CAS work? In this episode of Future-Proof, we sit down with Mike Manspeaker, Member of the AICPA Auditing Standards Board and CPA on Staff for Coastal Peer Review, to explore the compliance, ethics, and quality management considerations firms need to understand as CAS practices expand.

Mike shares practical insight into where firms can run into trouble, why engagement letters and documentation matter, and how firms can navigate the gray areas between advisory and attest services while continuing to deliver high-quality client service.

Resources:

• Mike Manspeaker, Member of the AICPA Auditing Standards Board
• Coastal Peer Review
• AICPA Auditing Standards Board

Mergers and acquisitions continue to reshape the accounting profession, but what happens after the deal closes? In this episode of Future-Proof, Bill Sheridan sits down with Ira Rosenbloom of Optimum Strategies to explore the human side of M&A and why people, not numbers, are often the deciding factor in whether a transaction succeeds or fails.

Ira shares insight into how communication gaps, cultural misalignment, staff anxiety, and leadership blind spots can derail even strong deals on paper. He also discusses how firms can better navigate transitions by involving employees earlier, communicating transparently with clients, and creating a clear vision for the future before entering negotiations.

Resources:

• Ira Rosenbloom, Chief Operating Executive at Optimum Strategies
• Optimum Strategies

What does risk look like for CPA firms today? In this episode of Future-Proof, we sit down with Stan Sterna of Aon to explore how the risk landscape is evolving across the profession.

Stan explains how new technologies, shifting regulations, workforce changes, and expanding advisory services are creating both opportunity and exposure for firms. He highlights why risk management must move beyond checklists and become part of firm culture, with clear expectations around engagement letters, documentation, staffing, and communication.

From hybrid work challenges to AI overreliance and the impact of busy season on decision-making, this conversation offers practical insight into how firms can manage risk more strategically and avoid the shortcuts that can lead to costly mistakes.

Resources:

1. Stan Sterna, SVP Accounts Risk & Control Lead at Aon, LinkedIn Profile
2. Aon, Professional Services Practice