Expert Accountants Are in Hot Demand

Christopher Petermann, a partner at PKF O’Connor Davies LLP, has found a valuable source of talent for the accounting and advisory services company: partners of the largest accounting firms who typically are expected to retire by their early 60s. “We don’t have mandatory retirement, and the older people we’re hiring are vibrant, with expertise in areas that can help us grow—plus they’re helping train younger employees,” says Petermann, co-director of the New York-based company’s foundation practice.

At a time of low unemployment, it’s tough for many companies to find and keep the best talent. Competition is especially steep for accountants and consultants with financial and information technology know-how, as increased financial regulations, tax law changes, and the growth of Big Data and global trade spur demand for specialists. Restless veterans of big accounting firms such as KPMG LLP and Deloitte LLP provide a solution for small and midsize business service companies—among them PKF, Marcum, and WithumSmith+Brown.