Tackling the ever-growing talent challenge: A strategic roadmap for global CPA firms

Guest editorial by Charles McKissick

Over 300,000 US CPAs have left public accounting since 2019 and are not returning. This exodus coincides with growing complexity in global tax, trade, and tariff regulations, creating a perfect storm for accounting firms worldwide. Firms struggle to find qualified professionals as salary inflation tightens margins and client demands expand beyond compliance. At the same time, firms operate across jurisdictions and face challenges like a lack of centralization and siloed operations from legacy partners.

These barriers hinder resource use, tech adoption, and transformation, just as global expertise is most needed. The result? operational strain that limits growth and prevents firms from meeting evolving client needs. Traditional hiring and retention strategies aren’t enough. Future-ready firms must adopt global workforce models offering flexibility, scalability, and a path to maintaining culture, quality, and service delivery while expanding capabilities.

For firms needing offshore support, TOTL Advisors, powered by Unison Globus, offers access to qualified and experienced professionals through proven staffing models. Our advanced BOTT model: Build, Operate, Transform, and Transfer offers a strategic leap forward.

Build: Establish offshore operations with legal setup, compliance, infrastructure, and talent acquisition under a Special Purpose Vehicle for your firm.

Operate: Manage daily operations with full visibility, streamlined processes, and consistent reporting.

Transform: Prepare for ownership via leadership training, automation, and process improvement.

Transfer: Seamless handover of a fully functional offshore team as an extension of your firm.

Blue & Co., LLC exceeded year-one goals of 15 team members, reaching 20 in months. Director Stephen Mann says, “Our people have recognized TOTL Advisors’ ability to add specific talent to meet needs as they arise is much quicker than we are accustomed to in our local markets.”

BOTT provides more than cost savings; it offers a competitive edge. Firms access global talent, technology-driven processes, and international expertise, allowing them to handle cross-border work and leverage global networks like GGI. While cost reductions reach up to 50%, the real value is enabling services once limited by talent shortages.

Many firms know they’re falling behind but hesitate to act. The longer the wait, the harder it gets to catch up. For firms ready to transform, the time is now. Offshore staffing and the BOTT model offer scalable, low-risk solutions without heavy upfront investment.

In a world of shifting regulations, evolving tax laws, and global business demands, delivery capabilities aren’t optional - they’re imperative. Connect with us to turn talent challenges into strategic advantages. Discover how the right global delivery model can help your firm grow strategically and sustainably.

Charles McKissick is the Executive Vice President of Strategy and Advisory at TOTL Advisors, a firm specializing in strategic financial outsourcing. With over 30 years in accounting and investment roles, he focuses on helping firms enhance efficiency and profitability through offshore solutions. He holds inactive licenses as a CPA (Illinois) and CFP.