From Visionary Leadership to Industry Legacy
With a career spanning decades of transformative leadership, Carl George has left an indelible mark on the CPA industry. His expertise continues to inspire excellence and innovation.
“As a consultant, I’m dedicated to sharing my experiences, best practices, and lessons learned with professional service firms. I help clients overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and strategically shape the future of their organizations for long-term success.”
CARL GEORGE, CPA, CGMA
Overview of Carl George’s Expertise
Carl George’s career is a testament to visionary leadership and a proven track record of success in the CPA profession. He began his career with Clifton Gunderson in a small office. Throughout his career and leadership, Clifton Gunderson grew into a $250 million firm. His final role before retiring as CEO was being an integral part of the team in one of the largest non-Big 4 mergers in history, forming CliftonLarsonAllen. Carl has consistently delivered results at the highest level.
Now, through Carl George Advisory, he leverages his deep expertise to help professional service firms overcome obstacles, capitalize on opportunities, and achieve lasting, strategic growth. When it comes to navigating complex industry challenges, Carl is the trusted partner you want by your side.
- Proven Leadership: Started in a small office of 5 people, became CEO of a $250 million powerhouse, and was an integral part of the team that formed the major merger of CliftonLarsonAllen.
- Tailored Strategic Solutions: Specializes in governance, mergers and acquisitions, succession planning, and partner compensation restructuring.
- Recognized Industry Leader: Consistently named among the “Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting” by Accounting Today.
- Master Negotiator: Skilled at reading people and managing complex negotiations with confidence and precision.
- Advocate for the Profession: Served on key committees for the AICPA and received multiple accolades for leadership and financial literacy advocacy.
- Educational Impact: Established scholarships and served on advisory boards to support the next generation of accounting professionals.
Explore Carl’s insights and achievements through real-world case studies that demonstrate his expertise and ability to help firms grow and thrive.
Clifton Gunderson
I began my public accounting career right out of college at Clifton Gunderson, one of Illinois’ most respected firms. Little did I know that this would become the foundation for my entire professional journey. Over the years, I rose through the ranks, ultimately serving as CEO for 16 years and shaping both the firm and the industry in ways I could never have imagined.
When I started at Clifton Gunderson, our office generated just $200,000 in revenue. Within three years, I was leading the office, focused on driving growth through both internal development and strategic mergers and acquisitions. Six years later, we hit $4 million in revenue, thanks to the acquisition of three of the largest firms in our market. That same year, I became a partner and was soon promoted to Chief Operating Officer, where I led practice management, oversaw firm operations, and continued to drive success in the M&A space. In 1993, I became CEO and worked to grow the firm from $50 million to $250 million in revenue.
One of my proudest accomplishments was being an integral part of the team that formed the largest non-Big 4 merger at the time with LarsonAllen, creating CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA), which is now a top 10 accounting firm in the U.S. Negotiating and structuring deals has always been a passion of mine, and I’ve developed a knack for reading people, understanding their “tells,” and navigating complex situations with confidence.
Accolades and Recognition
Recognized Leadership in Empowering Firms to Succeed
I’ve been fortunate to be recognized multiple times by Accounting Today as one of the “Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting.” What I’ve always enjoyed most is helping other firms succeed—whether it’s facilitating strategic planning retreats, creating succession plans, resolving partner conflicts, coaching the next generation of leaders, or guiding firms through mergers and acquisitions. That’s why, after retiring from CLA, I launched Carl George Advisory in 2013 to continue doing what I love: advising professional service firms in the areas I know best.
Shaping the Industry Through Leadership and Advocacy
My involvement in the industry has gone far beyond my work with Clifton Gunderson and CLA. I’ve been honored to serve on the AICPA board and to chair key committees, including the Major Firms Group and the Management of an Accounting Practice (MAP) Committee. In 2007, the AICPA recognized my contributions with its Special Recognition Award for Financial Literacy.
I’ve also served as chair of the National CPA Financial Literacy Commission and was inducted into the Advisory Board Hall of Fame in 2009. Today, I remain active with the Illinois and Indiana CPA societies, continuing to stay connected to the profession that has meant so much to me.
Honoring Roots, Building Futures, and Shaping Excellence
I’m proud to be a Ball State University alumnus, where I earned both my bachelor’s degree in accounting and my master’s degree in management. For over 30 years, I’ve personally funded a scholarship for accounting students and served on the College of Business’ Advisory Board. I’ve been deeply honored to receive Ball State’s Lifetime Achievement Award, induction into the Miller College of Business Hall of Fame, and the Alumni Award of Distinction.
My career has been defined by a commitment to growth, leadership, and innovation. I take great pride in helping firms navigate their challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve their fullest potential. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m excited to continue making an impact in this ever-evolving profession.
Tailored Solutions, Proven Results.
Having guided CPA firms through mergers, compensation restructuring, and governance, I bring an unparalleled depth of industry knowledge. I don’t just advise; I walk with you every step of the way.
“As a consultant, I’m dedicated to sharing my experiences, best practices, and lessons learned with professional service firms. I help clients overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and strategically shape the future of their organizations for long-term success.”
Partner
Compensation
Aligning compensation with performance is key to driving firm success. At Carl George Advisory, we design fair, transparent, and strategic partner compensation structures that reward contributions, incentivize growth, and align with your firm’s long-term objectives. Our approach ensures clarity, fosters collaboration, and helps firms retain top talent while achieving sustainable results.
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Mergers
and Acquisitions
Successful mergers and acquisitions require careful planning, expert negotiation, and seamless execution. At Carl George Advisory, we guide firms through every stage of the process—identifying opportunities, structuring deals, and ensuring smooth integration. Our approach maximizes value, minimizes disruption, and positions your firm for long-term growth and success.
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Governance
and Structure
Effective governance is the backbone of a well-run firm. At Carl George Advisory, we help firms establish clear structures, streamline decision-making, and enhance leadership effectiveness. By building robust frameworks, we create a foundation for accountability, efficiency, and sustainable growth.
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CEO and Partner
Coaching
Strong leadership drives firm success. At Carl George Advisory, we provide personalized coaching for CEOs and partners to enhance leadership skills, improve collaboration, and navigate complex challenges. Our tailored approach empowers leaders to inspire teams, align strategies, and achieve lasting results.
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Strategic
Planning
Achieving long-term success requires a clear vision and actionable strategy. At Carl George Advisory, we work closely with firms to develop tailored plans that align leadership, prioritize goals, and drive sustainable growth. Our strategic approach ensures your firm stays focused, adaptable, and positioned for the future.
Learn MoreReal Stories From Industry Leaders Who Trusted My Expertise
Featured News and Insights
Read and update the latest news from us. Donec eu magna quis felis tristique pretium in in odio.
Navigating CPA Firm Challenges: Expert Advice on Mergers and Acquisitions
Effective CPA Firm Management: Best Practices for Leadership and Growth
Optimizing Partner Compensation in CPA Firms: Strategies for Alignment and Performance
I Can Help You Scale, Optimize and Grow Your Firm, Starting From Today
With a career spanning decades of transformative leadership, Carl George has left an indelible mark on the CPA industry. From growing a $200,000 office into a $250 million powerhouse to shaping the future of firms nationwide, his expertise continues to inspire excellence and innovation.
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