Ensuring a Smooth Transition for Long-Term Stability
Succession Planning Process
Succession planning for a CPA firm is a comprehensive process that goes beyond just identifying a successor for the managing partner or CEO. It is about ensuring the long-term stability, growth, and continuity of the firm across all leadership levels.
Carl George Advisory has developed proven succession planning processes that ensure CPA firms achieve long-term stability, growth, client retention, and leadership continuity. Our approach goes beyond simply naming a successor for the managing partner or CEO—it creates a comprehensive strategy for leadership and client transition at all levels.
We start by assessing current leadership and identifying key partners who drive client relationships, operations, and firm growth. Engaging these individuals early in succession discussions helps create a seamless transition.
Our process includes identifying and developing internal talent—rising stars who have the skills, ambition, and cultural alignment to take on leadership roles. Through structured development plans, leadership training, and mentorship, we help identify and prepare the next generation of firm leaders.
For firms looking to expand or strengthen leadership, we explore how mergers and acquisitions (M&A) can support succession. Acquiring firms with complementary leadership or client bases can introduce new leadership while enhancing overall capabilities.
A strong governance structure is critical. We help firms establish formal evaluation processes, set clear leadership expectations, and align succession plans with firm culture and strategy.
How Carl George Advisory Can Help:
- Assessing current leadership
- Developing internal talent (rising stars)
- Exploring mergers and acquisitions
- Establishing governance for seamless succession and client retention
Other Services
Strategic Planning
CEO & Partner Coaching
Partner Compensation Consulting
Firm Retreat Facilitation
Partner Conflict Resolution
Succession Planning
Extensive Experience, Relatable Insights, and a Tailored Approach
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.
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.
Testimonials
Real Stories From Industry Leaders Who Trusted My Expertise
Leaders from top firms trust Carl George Advisory to transform their strategies. With results that last, I’ve become a trusted partner to firms across the country.
“As a young leader of a legacy firm, Carl has been an invaluable coach and resource for my growth. His relatable demeanor allows us to have candid conversations, so I can learn from his experience, ask questions, and be challenged in my thinking. The two years our firm has worked with Carl has accelerated my personal leadership development and put our firm on a sustainable path.”
– Josh Beaird, CPA, CIA, CEO
“Carl George is unquestionably one of the top consultants in the profession. He has a unique ability to relate to his clients based on his extensive experience leading a large firm. When it comes to practice management, he has been there, seen it, and navigating it, most likely. Carl has always been a big supporter of Rainmaker and of me and always acts as an advocate for his clients. He is knowledgeable and firm but also very relatable. I always enjoy working with Carl. Anyone working with him will certainly benefit from his expertise and approach.”
– Angie Grissom, CPA
I Can Help You Scale, Optimize and Grow Your Firm, Starting From Today
Leaders from top firms trust Carl George Advisory to transform their strategies. With results that last, I’ve become a trusted partner to firms across the country.
Can you help develop/update our strategic plan?
Why should I have a partner compensation process?
How long have you been helping firms with Mergers and Acquisitions?
What size firms do you work with?
Featured News and Insights
Read and update the latest news from us. Donec eu magna quis felis tristique pretium in in odio.
Why CPA Firms Need an Executive Committee and Outside Board Member
Strategic Planning for CPA Firms and Sustainable Success
Managing Partner Succession Selection Process For CPA Firms
Developing an Effective Partner Compensation Plan for CPA Firms
Why CPA Firm Governance and Structure Must Evolve as You Grow
Choosing the Next Managing Partner In A CPA Firm
Frequently Asked Questions.
Find answers to common questions about our services, approach, and expertise. Whether you’re exploring strategic planning, partner compensation, or mergers and acquisitions, our FAQ page provides clarity on how Carl George Advisory can help your firm achieve its goals.
Case Studies
Explore our library of case studies showcasing real-world solutions to complex challenges faced by CPA firms. From navigating mergers and acquisitions to restructuring partner compensation and fostering sustainable growth, each case study highlights actionable insights and measurable results. Click below to learn how firms like yours achieved their goals
Begin your
Journey with Carl George Advisory
Have questions about CPA firm strategy, partner compensation, mergers and acquisitions, or governance? Let’s connect! Carl George offers expert advice tailored to your firm’s unique challenges and opportunities Whether you’re a CPA firm leader seeking guidance or an industry consultant exploring collaboration, Carl is here to help you navigate complexities with confidence and clarity.
I Can Help You Scale, Optimize and Grow Your Firm, Starting From Today
My mission is simple: to help leaders of CPA firms unlock their full potential by aligning strategy with action. With decades of experience navigating the complexities of firm leadership, I offer solutions that are not just theoretical, but practical, actionable and successful. Together, we’ll build a stronger, more resilient firm that thrives in any market condition.
– Carl George
Owner Carl George Advisory
