February 23, 2024

Avoiding Extinction as an Accountant

On this episode of the Gross Profit Podcast, James Kennedy sits down with Ian Browne, the Director of Education at Chartered Accountants Ireland. Ian shares his extensive knowledge and insights into the future of the accounting profession.
The Gross Profit Podcast
The Gross Profit Podcast
Avoiding Extinction as an Accountant
Loading
/

Show Notes

In this episode of the Gross Profit Podcast, James Kennedy sits down with Ian Browne, the Director of Education at Chartered Accountants Ireland. Established in 1888, Chartered Accountants Ireland has become a cornerstone in the world of finance and accounting.

In today’s episode Ian Browne shares his extensive knowledge and insights into the future of the accounting profession. With the rapid evolution of the industry, Ian discusses how upcoming accountants are being equipped to succeed in a changing world, emphasizing the importance and benefits of lifelong learning. He unveils why mastering accounting is more crucial now than ever, positing it as a skill of the future.

Throughout the episode, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the field of accounting. Ian’s perspective sheds light on the key skills that future accountants need to develop to remain relevant and avoid obsolescence. His advocacy for continuous education resonates throughout the discussion, highlighting how an accounting degree can maintain its relevance in this ever-evolving field.

Chartered Accountants Ireland, as Ian elaborates, is not just an educational institute but a global membership body representing over 32,000 influential members. Its role extends beyond education to representing and supporting its members who work in senior positions across various industries. The organization’s commitment to restoring confidence in the economy is evident in its work with governments and businesses, raising awareness of the importance of sound financial advice.

Governed by a Council and led by an Officer Group, supported by a Management Team and staff, Chartered Accountants Ireland operates under a robust governance structure. Ian also touches upon the significant role played by its various committees, which involve voluntary member involvement.

The Gross Profit Podcast

More Episodes

Merushka Chetty

Carolina Aponte – Venezuelan Immigrant’s Rise to Top CFO Success

In this episode, James Kennedy sits down with Carolina Aponte – fractional CFO, founder, and co-host of the Breaking Even Better podcast – to trace her journey from teen tour guide in Venezuela to award-winning North Carolina business owner. Carolina shares how she arrived in the U.S. at 20 without a high school diploma, juggled three jobs to survive, and used night classes plus on-the-job learning to climb from receptionist to controller and ultimately firm owner.

They unpack what a great controller actually does, how finance leaders can influence (but not control!) CEOs, and why relationships, resilience, and “improv” are just as important as debits and credits. Carolina also talks about helping more than 10 clients break the $1M revenue barrier and how her team-based model delivers 90%+ client retention.

Listen Now »
Merushka Chetty

Nick Bilotta – The Medieval Accounting Trick That Still Works Today

In this episode, James Kennedy sits down with Nick Bilotta, Founder of Bilotta & Co. CPAs, to explore two powerful concepts often misunderstood in the accounting world: fund accounting and financial storytelling. Nick shares why fund accounting – often dismissed as an “old-school” practice – is becoming more relevant than ever for nonprofits, contractors, and organizations that need transparency, donor confidence, and better decision-making. He also breaks down how great accountants don’t just report numbers – they translate financials into narratives that inspire trust, secure funding, and shape an organization’s future. From motorcycle technician to SEC reporting leader to firm owner, Nick’s unconventional journey gives him a unique perspective on the role of modern CPAs, fractional CFOs, and the importance of clarity in financial communication.

Listen Now »
Merushka Chetty

Andy Mellor – The Truth About Fractional CFOs

In this episode, James Kennedy sits down with UK-based portfolio CFO Andy Mellor, founder of Summit17, to tackle a controversial question: what actually makes a “real” fractional CFO? Drawing on Andy’s journey from big corporate finance to PE-backed gym chains and nursery groups, through to running his own packed portfolio practice, they unpack how to separate serious CFOs from title-only pretenders, why great financial models should drive day-to-day decisions (not gather dust in Excel), and how fractional CFOs can build real equity instead of just selling hours. Along the way, Andy shares a live MBO case study where a retiring partner was bought out without private equity and how smart forecasting and cash planning made it possible.

Listen Now »