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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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'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.

Backed by Alpine Investors, Ascend has expanded its platform with new partnerships in Ohio, California, and Texas, including HD Davis, PP&Co, and two south Texas firms. These collaborations offer firms growth resources while preserving their unique cultures.

David Wurtzbacher doesn’t just talk about putting people first, he lives it. He believes that an excellent business has the power to lift people up and transform their lives.

Ascend was recently highlighted on the CPA Practice Advisor website for its inclusion in the "20 Under 40" awards, recognizing David Wurtzbacher, Founder & CEO, as one of the top young influencers in accounting.

Ascend's CEO, David Wurtzbacher, appeared on Accounting Today's Small Firm Philosophy podcast to discuss why managing partners should focus on leading their firms rather than managing client work.

Less than a year after founding Ascend, CEO David Wurtzbacher has been named one of Accounting Today's "2023 Top 100 Most Influential People" for his innovative work creating a growth platform that helps mid-market accounting firms remain independent while accessing large-firm resources.

Ascend announced its ninth partnership of 2023, acquiring the tax and consulting business of Atlanta-based Wilson Lewis, marking its first expansion into the Southeast and pushing its revenue above $100 million.

Goering & Granatino of Overland Park, Kansas, has received an investment from Ascend, marking its eighth acquisition and expanding Ascend’s footprint into the Midwest with 40 new professionals joining its platform.

Erin Stahmer, Ascend's Chief People Officer, shares her journey and insights on building a people-first culture at Ascend in her feature story on Alpine Investors' website.

Ascend CEO David Wurtzbacher explains in an interview with INSIDE Public Accounting how Ascend's approach contrasts with the traditional "big-to-big" private equity model, focusing instead on investing in entrepreneurial regional accounting firms and prioritizing the employee experience.