In this episode of Accounting Today’s podcast, Editor-in-Chief Dan Hood sits down with Ascend CEO David Wurtzbacher and Bill Kelly of AICPAs PCPS to explore how alternative practice structures are reshaping the future of accounting. Hear how Ascend’s model supports firm independence while offering the scale and flexibility of a modern growth platform.

Ascend's David Wurtzbacher and Nishaad Ruparel join the Everything CPA and Private Equity podcast to share how they built a national growth platform for entrepreneurial CPA firms — and why it's changing the game.

Nishaad Ruparel, President of Ascend, was recently featured on The Big 4 Transparency Podcast, sharing insights into Ascend’s strategic approach to acquiring and growing regional accounting firms. The conversation explores how Ascend, backed by Alpine Investors, is modernizing accounting firm operations, streamlining firm integration, and differentiating itself from traditional consolidators.

Ascend has announced the appointment of Maureen Churgovich Dillmore as its new Vice President of Partnerships. With a strong background in accounting firm networks, including leadership roles at PrimeGlobal and DFK International/USA, Dillmore will focus on expanding Ascend’s partnership network for mid-sized accounting firms.

Ascend, a strategic partner for regional accounting and advisory firms backed by private equity firm Alpine Investors, today announced its entry into Wyoming with the addition of Cheyenne-based McGee, Hearne & Paiz (MHP) as its newest platform firm.

San Jose, CA – PP&Co, a leading provider of accounting, tax, and advisory services, has announced that Delucchi Hawn, LLP has officially joined the firm, effective December 1, 2024. This strategic merger unites two regional leaders known for their client-centric approach and commitment to service excellence.

Ascend is strengthening its leadership and technological capabilities with strategic executive appointments and AI-driven innovation. CEO David Wurtzbacher emphasizes a people-first approach, ensuring that top-tier talent and cutting-edge solutions drive long-term success in the evolving accounting industry.

ATKG Advisors and SPR P.C. have merged, creating the largest homegrown accounting and advisory firm in South Texas. With a combined team of 150 professionals and 15 partners, the firm remains committed to its people-first culture while expanding its capabilities to better serve clients across the region.

Ascend has expanded its leadership team by appointing two new executives to its C-suite, signaling a strategic focus on growth and operational improvements. The announcement highlights Ascend’s ongoing efforts to enhance its executive leadership as part of its long-term business strategy.

Ascend welcomes Lucas Horsfall to its platform, expanding its national footprint with the addition of 15 partners and 125 professionals. This partnership will provide LH with the resources and technology needed to accelerate growth and navigate the evolving accounting landscape.

Amber Goering, a CPA and small firm owner, partnered with Ascend after recognizing her need for change at AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE. The deal, completed in four months, enables her firm to retain independence while accessing Ascend’s growth resources.

Ascend, a private equity-backed partner for regional accounting firms, has added three new firms: Blackman & Sloop, TSS Advisors, and Vogel & Co. Leaders of the new firms expressed confidence that joining Ascend will enhance their client service, growth, and commitment to excellence.

Ascend firms earned five spots on Accounting Today's "2024 Best Firms to Work For" list, showcasing their success in building high-performance cultures while embracing Ascend's PeopleFirst approach.

Today's top accounting firm leaders must navigate a rapidly evolving landscape, taking on roles like technologists, deal brokers, and brand ambassadors to attract new talent. Accounting Today's 2024 MP Elite recognizes leaders like Eileen Sheridan, who embraces disruption and innovation to help her firm adapt and thrive.

David Wurtzbacher and Erin Stahmer launched Ascend in January 2023 to help regional accounting firms overcome challenges in the traditional partnership model by rethinking firm structure, career development, and compensation. They aim to attract and retain top talent, build strong cultures, and cultivate the next generation of equity owners to drive long-term success.

When Erin Stahmer and David Wurtzbacher founded Ascend, they aimed to unite smaller CPA firms under a single platform for growth. Partnering with Alpine PeopleFirst, they designed a workshop to establish core values and strategies, resulting in the PeopleFirst program that helps new firms align their vision and goals within months of joining Ascend.

Ascend, backed by Alpine Investors, acquired LevitZacks' San Diego advisory practice. Non-attest services will be handled by LevitZacks Corporation under Ascend, while attest services remain with a separate CPA firm. The partnership brings 9 partners and 51 staff to Ascend, fostering growth while maintaining independence.

Ascend, backed by Alpine Investors, was featured in Accounting Today's 2024 list of Top 100 Firms for expanding its platform with new partners like Blackman & Sloop and TSS Advisors. The partnerships enhance firm growth while preserving their unique cultures.

To support its rapid growth, Ascend has appointed Nishaad Ruparel as President, a new role created as the company surpassed $100 million in revenue in less than a year since its launch.

Ascend's David Wurtzbacher and Erin Stahmer joined the Small Firm Philosophy podcast to discuss their strategies for transforming accounting firms, focusing on people management, offshoring, and enhancing service value.