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2015 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CATALOG Revised May 1, 2015
Our schedule changes on a regular basis so please check the Events Calendar at www.pkfna.org for the current listing of new and upcoming events.
TRENDS
GROW, COMPETE AND THRIVE
HELPING INDEPENDENT FIRMS GROW, COMPETE AND THRIVE! Welcome to the 2015 PKF North America Professional Development Catalog. Included in the catalog are details on the 2015 PKF North America educational offerings and events. You will find dates, locations, agendas, objectives and pricing for the scheduled trainings, conferences and fly-ins. We suggest that you regularly check the PKF North America Events Calendar (www.pkfna.org), as programs may be added throughout the year to meet the needs of our members. In our ongoing effort to improve our program offerings and services, we encourage all participants to complete post-course questionnaires and provide feedback. We greatly value input from our members and encourage everyone to participate and provide us with ideas on how to better serve your training needs. Additionally, if there is a course or program that you feel would benefit your firm or the membership, that is not currently being offered, please reach out to PKF North America directly and provide your input. PKF North America has launched several recent successful programs based on member suggestions. We appreciate any feedback on ways to better serve our member’s needs. We would like to offer a special thanks to the members of the PKF North America CPE, A&A and Tax Committees for their continued time, effort and support in developing the curriculum. Their feedback is essential in developing new programs that support our members and is greatly appreciated. As members you have access to PKF TRENDS where you’ll find a wide range of Tools, Resources, Education, Networking, Development and Successful People—all geared to help you grow, compete and thrive, while you remain an independent firm.
TRENDS TOOLS
As a member of PKF North America, you have access to specific tools that will allow you to manage operations, track progress, improve performance and stimulate growth.
RESOURCES
PKF North America members enjoy easy access to knowledge for accounting firms.
EDUCATION
PKF North America provides training and education to develop your employees from hire to retire.
NETWORKING
PKF North America’s annual conferences and regularly scheduled meetings provide excellent opportunities to learn and grow from like-minded firms.
DEVELOPMENT
PKF North America helps independent firms develop new business opportunities to better compete in today’s market.
SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE
PKF North America provides a team of over 20 professionals working as an extension of your firm.
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CONTENTS Schedule of Events.............................................................................................4
PEOPLE
GROWTH
▶ LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT ASD A: Executing Audit Engagements...........................................................7 ASD B: Beginning In-Charge Training............................................................8 ASD C: Experienced In-Charge Training........................................................9 CSD B: Executing Engagements................................................................... 10 CSD C: Introduction to Engagement Planning & Supervision................ 10 CSD D: Project Management & Supervision.............................................. 11 Canadian Manager Training Module........................................................... 11 LP1: Leading Engagements.......................................................................... 12 LP2: Leading People....................................................................................... 13 LP3: Leading Through Managing................................................................. 14 LP4: Program for Emerging Leaders........................................................... 15 LP5: Experienced Partner Leadership......................................................... 16 LP6: Program for Strategic Firm Leadership............................................. 17 TSD A: Business & Intermediate Individual Taxation............................... 18 TSD B: Comprehensive Business, Individual & Fiduciary Taxation....... 19 TSD C: Advanced Business, Individual, & Fiduciary Taxation................. 20 TSD: LLC and Partnership Tax Boot Camp................................................ 21 ▶ HUMAN RESOURCES Human Resources Conference.................................................................... 22 Putting People First Webinar Series............................................................ 22 Crucial Conversations.................................................................................... 23 The 5 Choices to Extraordinary Productivity............................................. 23 The 7 Habits to Highly Effective People Signature Program.................. 23
▶ COMMUNITIES OF PRACTICE Communities of Practice Events.................................................................. 29 Construction Industry Technician Training (Level 1)............................... 30 Firm Administrators Roundtable.................................................................. 30 Family Business Advisor Certification......................................................... 31 TransitionStrong™ Certification.................................................................... 32 Resources......................................................................................................... 33 ▶ MARKETING RESOURCES BD/Marketing Conference............................................................................. 35 Business Development and Marketing Webinar Series........................... 35 Career-Spanning Virtual Business Development Training..................... 36 PKF NA Caribbean Business Development Workshop............................ 37 Social Media for Business/Accounting Social Media Fundamentals... 37
CLIENT SERVICE ▶ INTERNATIONAL CONNECTIONS Advanced Professional Certificate in International Taxation................. 25 ▶ EXPERTISE PORTAL Accounting & Auditing and Tax Roundtables............................................ 26 Canadian Standards Interest Group Fly-In................................................ 26 Canadian Tax Interest Group Fly-In............................................................. 27 PKF North America Summit A&A and Tax Tracks.................................... 27 Technical Topic Webinar Series................................................................... 28
FIRM MANAGEMENT ▶ INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Firm Technologists Conference Call/Webinar Series.............................. 39 Technology Fly-In and Roundtable.............................................................. 39 ▶ OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT Advanced Firm Management Workshop.................................................... 40 Canadian Firm Management Roundtables................................................ 40 Canadian Partners’ Conference................................................................... 41 Executive Working Groups............................................................................. 41 Firm Management Conference..................................................................... 42 Large Firm Work Group.................................................................................. 42 Mid-Tier Work Group...................................................................................... 43 PKF North America Summit Firm Management Track............................ 43
RESOURCES & APPENDIX CPA Exam.......................................................................................................... 44 CPE Policy......................................................................................................... 44 CPE Virtual Learning....................................................................................... 44 Appendix A: Professional Development Plan............................................. 45 Appendix B: Audit & Tax Practitioner Learning Pathways....................... 46 Appendix C: Curriculum Map........................................................................ 47 Appendix D: Administrative Policies............................................................ 48
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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
■ Firm Hosted
Hotel Based
**Dates to be confirmed
Check the Events Calendar at www.pkfna.org for the current listing of new and upcoming events. Learning & Development ASD
Canadian Programs
LP1
LP2
Events
Date
Location
Airport Code-Distance (mi)
ASD A: Executing Audit Engagements
May 4 - 6, 2015
Hartford, CT
BDL-5 / HFD-12
ASD A: Executing Audit Engagements
June 8 - 10, 2015
Hagerstown, MD (Mid-Atlantic Consortium)
HGR-5 / BWI-80 / IAD-85
ASD A: Executing Audit Engagements
July 22 - 24, 2015
Irvine, CA
SNA-3
ASD A: Executing Audit Engagements
November 4 - 6, 2015
Livingston, NJ
EWR-18
ASD B: Beginning In-Charge Training
May 4 - 6, 2015
Hagerstown, MD (Mid-Atlantic Consortium)
HGR-5 / BWI-80 / IAD-85
ASD B: Beginning In-Charge Training
June 15 - 17, 2015
Hartford, CT
BDL-12
ASD B: Beginning In-Charge Training
July 15 - 17, 2015
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
ASD C: Experienced In-Charge Training
May 18 - 20, 2015
Hagerstown, MD (Mid-Atlantic Consortium)
HGR-5 / BWI-80 / IAD-85
ASD C: Experienced In-Charge Training
June 1 - 3, 2015
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
ASD C: Experienced In-Charge Training
June 22 - 24, 2015
Chicago, IL
ORD-0 / MDW-27
CSD B: Executing Engagements
October 5 - 6, 2015
Canada
CSD C: Intro. to Engagement Planning & Supervision
October 7 - 8, 2015
Canada
CSD D: Project Management & Supervision
October 19 - 20, 2015
Canada
Canadian Manager Training Module
October 21 - 22, 2015
Canada
LP 1: Leading Engagements
May 4 - 6, 2015
Hagerstown, MD (Mid-Atlantic Consortium
HGR-5 / BWI-80 / IAD-85
LP 1: Leading Engagements
July 13 - 15, 2015
Chicago, IL
ORD-2 / MDW-29
LP 1: Leading Engagements
August 3 - 5, 2015
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
LP 1: Leading Engagements
November 4 - 6, 2015
Atlanta, GA
ATL-18
LP 2: Leading People
May 18 - 20, 2015
Hagerstown, MD (Mid-Atlantic Consortium)
HGR-5 / BWI-80 / IAD-85
LP 2: Leading People
June 17 - 19, 2015
Indianapolis, IN
IND-14
LP 2: Leading People
July 29 - 31, 2015
San Jose, CA
SJC-7
LP 2: Leading People
August 12 - 14, 2015
Dallas, TX
DFW-22
LP 2: Leading People
October 19 - 21, 2015
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
LP3: ‘14 -‘15 Summer Class
LP 3: Leading Through Managing Session #4
May 14 - 15, 2015
Chicago, IL
ORD-4 / MDW-40
LP3: ‘14 -‘15 Fall Class
LP 3: Leading Through Managing Session #4
May 20 - 21, 2015
Baltimore, MD
BWI-12 / IAD-61 SAT-8
LP3: ‘15 - ‘16
LP3: ‘14 -‘15 Mid-Atlantic Consortium LP3: ‘15 -‘16 Mid-Atlantic Consortium
LP4: ‘14 -‘15 Summer Class LP4: ‘14 -‘15 Fall Class LP4: ‘15 -‘16
LP5
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LP 3: Leading Through Managing Session #1
June 17 - 18, 2015
San Antonio, TX
LP 3: Leading Through Managing Session #2
September 21 - 22, 2015
Chicago, IL
LP 3: Leading Through Managing Session #3
November 19 - 20, 2015
Phoenix, AZ
LP 3: Leading Through Managing Session #4
May/June 2016
TBD
LP 3: Leading Through Managing Session #3,
May 18 - 19, 2015
Columbia, MD
BWI-10
LP 3: Leading Through Managing Session #4,
August 24 - 25, 2015
Columbia, MD
BWI-10
LP 3: Leading Through Managing Session #1
August 26 - 27, 2015
Columbia, MD
BWI-10
LP 3: Leading Through Managing Session #2
December 7 - 8, 2015
Columbia, MD
BWI-10
LP 3: Leading Through Managing Session #3
May 16 - 17, 2016
Columbia, MD
BWI-10
LP 3: Leading Through Managing Session #4
August 15 - 16, 2016
Columbia, MD
BWI-10
LP 4: Program for Emerging Leaders Session #3
May 20 - 22, 2015
Indianapolis, IN
IND-14
LP 4: Program for Emerging Leaders Session #4
October 19 - 21, 2015
Salt Lake City, UT
SLC-8
LP 4: Program for Emerging Leaders Session #3
May 13 - 15, 2015
Chicago, IL
LP 4: Program for Emerging Leaders Session #4
October 21 - 23, 2015
Salt Lake City, UT
SLC-8
LP 4: Program for Emerging Leaders Session #1
June 17 - 19, 2015
San Antonio, TX
SAT-8 CHS-12
LP 4: Program for Emerging Leaders Session #2
November 11 - 13, 2015
Charleston, SC
LP 4: Program for Emerging Leaders Session #3
May/June 2016
TBD
LP 4: Program for Emerging Leaders Session #4
October/November 2016
TBD
LP 5: Experienced Partner Leadership
August 17 - 18, 2015
Boston, MA
Check the Events Calendar at www.pkfna.org for the current listing of new and upcoming events. LP6: ‘15 -‘16
Summit TSD
Human Resources International Connections Expertise Portal
Communities of Practice
Marketing Resources
Events
Date
Location
LP 6: Program for Strategic Firm Leadership Session #1
August 6 - 7, 2015
Cambridge, MA
Airport Code-Distance (mi)
LP 6: Program for Strategic Firm Leadership Session #2
May 14 - 15, 2016
Orlando, FL
MCO-21
LP 6: Program for Strategic Firm Leadership Session #3
November 5 - 6, 2016
Beverly Hills, CA
LAX-12
PKF North America Summit A&A and Tax Tracks
November 15 - 18, 2015
Charleston, SC
CHS-12
TSD A: Business & Intermediate Individual Taxation
May 4 - 6, 2015
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
TSD A: Business & Intermediate Individual Taxation
November 4 - 6, 2015
Atlanta, GA
ATL-18
TSD B: Comprehensive Business, Individual & Fiduciary Taxation
May 13 - 15, 2015
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
TSD B: Comprehensive Business, Individual & Fiduciary Taxation
November 11 - 13, 2015
Atlanta, GA
ATL-18
TSD: C Advanced Business, Individual & Fiduciary Taxation
June 3 - 5, 2015
Cincinnati, OH
CVG-12
TSD: LLC and Partnership Tax Boot Camp
August 17 - 18, 2015
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
Human Resources Conference
August 19 - 21, 2015
San Diego, CA
SAN-3
Advanced Professional Certificate - International Taxation
June 2016
North America
PKF International Symposium
September 19 - 22, 2015**
Athens, Greece
Accounting & Auditing Roundtable Northeast (with NAAATS)
July 12, 2015
Baltimore, MD
BWI-12 / DCA-45 / IAD-52
Accounting & Auditing Roundtable Southeast
June 8, 2015
Atlanta, GA
ATL-9
Accounting & Auditing Roundtable West
June 3, 2015
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
Canadian Standards Interest Group Fly-In
January 25 - 26, 2016
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
Canadian Tax Interest Fly-In
October 4, 2015
Vancouver, BC
Canadian Tax Interest Fly-In
January 2016
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
PKF North America A&A and Tax Tracks
November 15 - 18, 2015
Charleston, SC
CHS-12
Tax Roundtable - Northeast
May 27, 2015
Windsor Locks, CT
BDL-1
Tax Roundtable - Southeast
June 10, 2015
Atlanta, GA
ATL-9
Tax Roundtable - West
June 1, 2015
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
Canadian Agribusiness Fly-In
January 24, 2015
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
Construction Contractors Fly-In
December 2015
TBD
TBD
Construction Industry Technician Training (Level 1)
TBD
TBD
TBD
Employee Benefit Plans Roundtable (with AICPA)
May 2015
National Harbor, MD
DCA-7 / IAD-35 / BWI-43
Family Business Adviser Certification
August 3 - 4, 2015
Atlanta, GA
ATL-9
Firm Administrators Roundtable (with AAA)
June 7 - 10, 2015
Orlando, FL
MCO-
TransitionStrong™ Certification
TBD
TBD
TBD
Financial Institutions Fly-In
July 30-31, 2015
Charleston, SC
CHS-12
Fraud & Forensics Fly-In
October 19 - 20, 2015
Grapevine, TX
DFW-6
Healthcare Fly-In
TBD
TBD
TBD
Not for Profit Roundtable
August 2015
TBD
DCA-7 / IAD-35 / BWI-43
R&E Tax Credits Fly-In
August 24, 2015
Chicago, IL
ORD-2 / MDW-29 TBD
PKF NA - Mexico Business Forum
TBD
TBD
Wealth Management Fly-In
January 2016
TBD
TBD
Women in Accounting Fly-In
July 23 - 24, 2015
Dallas, TX
DFW-9 DIA-10
BD/Marketing Conference
October 26 - 27, 2015
Denver, CO
PKF NA Caribbean Business Development Workshop
June 3 - 5, 2015
Georgetown, Guyana
Information Technology
Technology Fly-In & Roundtable
September 17 - 18, 2015
Rosemont, IL
ORD-2 / MDW-29
Operations Management
Advanced Firm Management Workshop
September 2, 2015
Chicago, IL
ORD-2 / MDW-29 YVR-
Canadian Firm Management Roundtable
October 4, 2015
Vancouver, BC
Canadian Firm Management Roundtable
January 2016
Las Vegas, NV
LAS-3
Canadian Partners’ Conference
October 4 - 6, 2015
Vancouver, BC
YVR-
Executive Working Groups (Spring)
May 16 - 17, 2015
San Diego, CA
SAN-21
Executive Working Groups (Fall)
November 14 - 15, 2015
Charleston, SC
CHS-12
Firm Management Conference
May 17 - 20, 2015
San Diego, CA
SAN-21
Large Firm Work Group
July 9, 2015
Chicago, IL
ORD-2 / MDW-29
Mid-Tier Work Group
July 15, 2015
Chicago, IL
ORD-2 / MDW-29
PKF North America Summit Firm Management Track
November 15 - 18, 2015
Charleston, SC
CHS-12
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PEOPLE
▶ LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT ▶ HUMAN RESOURCES Audit Staff Development
Leadership Progression
PKF North America partners with 20-20 Services to deliver all of the Audit Staff Development training. PKF North America is committed to providing all of our members with “best in class” technical training, and it is our belief that 20-20 shares that commitment.
The Leadership Progression programs are a series of learning opportunities sequenced to provide cutting-edge leadership and management skills training. These programs bring together a variety of trainers, consultants, counselors and industry specialists to provide an integrated approach to leadership development for your firm.
Some components of the PKF North America ASD programs that help our firms increase their training ROI include: PRE-COURSE WORK To improve the effectiveness and transfer of knowledge of our audit training, all participants will be assigned pre-course work ahead of their training date. The assigned work will be tailored to each ASD Level and the goal of this initiative is to introduce all participants to the concepts that will be covered in the training. The prep work will consist of technical readings, questionnaires and personalized exercises that will not exceed more then 120 minutes of work. TAILORED CONTENT FOR YOUR PARTICIPANTS In an effort to make the training as applicable as possible, we incorporate the use of real files and forms into our courses when possible and in a confidential setting. “TRAIN-THE-TRAINER” To make our ASD programs more effective and increase retention, we have developed a “train-the-trainer” format for the end of all ASD training modules. This model will dedicate time at the end of the program to encourage our participants to develop a training session for their colleagues on three to five concepts that they learned.
Canadian Staff Development The Canadian Staff Development programs introduce participants to technical skills, personal development and management skills needed to execute successful accounting engagements. These programs also provide practical tools and techniques that participants can immediately apply to their engagements. PKF North America contracts with 20-20 Services. The instructors integrate knowledge with competitive insight and practical applications. Their experience is drawn from direct involvement in a wide variety of accounting and consulting firms. These programs are applicable to all member firms to provide training for audit, review and notice to reader engagements.
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Tax Staff Development PKF North America partners with 20-20 Services to deliver all of the Tax Staff Development training. Tax Staff Development programs introduce participants to the technical skills they need to successfully prepare tax returns. The programs are practical and relevant, and include the latest approaches and techniques of efficient and effective tax preparation.
Human Resources The annual Human Resource Conference covers the latest trends in the profession and explores best practices among members. In addition, the Human Resource Committee sponsors the Putting People First webinars to discuss various topics related to best practices and HR practices. Note: ASD, CSD, TSD, LP1 and LP2 courses can be run in-house at your firm’s office if you meet participant minimums. If you are interested in these programs, contact PKF North America to discuss details 770.279.4560.
ASD A: Executing Audit Engagements PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Staff Training (Level 2) is designed for staff accountants with one busy season of experience. This course includes significant content targeted for tasks and procedures performed by the more experienced staff person on the engagement. Topics include updating internal control documentation, performing walkthroughs, price testing for inventory, valuation testing for accounts receivable, and analysis of lease transactions. In addition, the course provides skill training on select key foundational skills necessary for success in the public accounting profession. TARGET AUDIENCE Individuals who are ready to take on the responsibility of completing major audit sections (typically individuals with 5-12 months of experience) and have experienced at least one (but not more than one) audit busy season LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• Apply basic risk assessment procedures including updating and validating cycle level control documentation and entity understanding
• Effectively perform basic audit procedures such as analytical procedures and fraud procedures, and address specific areas such as valuation of receivables, price testing of inventory and accounting for leases
• Gather and share information with the client and audit team • Demonstrate appropriate and ethical decision making
MODULE SUMMARY Audit Knowledge and Skills • Analytical Procedures • Audit and Review Processes • Fraud • Risk Assessment Procedures - Understanding Internal Controls • Risk Assessment Procedures - Understanding the Entity • Risk based Auditing Accounting and Auditing of Financials Statement Areas • Accounts Receivable • Beyond the Basics: Cash, A/P & PPE • Inventory • Leases • Introduction, Reviews and Quizzes Foundational Skills • Communication - Inquiry • Business Etiquette • Business Ethics
Program Duration 3 days Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Basic Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and case studies Advance Preparation • Participants will be provided with pre-course work after registration • Approximately 90 to 120 minutes of reading, case study work and preparation Estimated CPE Accounting - 2 hours Auditing - 19 hours Communication - 1 hour Professional Development - 2 hours Dates and Locations FIRM May 4 - 6, 2015 HOSTED Hartford, Connecticut FIRM HOSTED
June 8 - 10, 2015 Hagerstown, Maryland
FIRM HOSTED
July 22 - 24, 2015 Irvine, California
FIRM HOSTED
November 4 - 6, 2015 Livingston, New Jersey
Fees FIRM HOSTED
Equal-share estimate: $850 - $1,175 USD
PACE TOTAL PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK ELEMENTS Competencies • Communication • Conceptual Thinking • Technical Excellence
Contributions • Client Service
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Program Duration 3 days Prerequisite ASD A: Executing Audit Engagements and/or 2+ years experience Level of Knowledge Intermediate Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and case studies Advance Preparation • Participants will be provided with pre-course work after registration • Approximately 90 to 120 minutes of reading, case study work and preparation Estimated CPE Auditing - 14 ½ hours Professional Development - 9 ½ hours Dates and Locations FIRM HOSTED
May 4 - 6, 2015 Hagerstown, Maryland
FIRM HOSTED
June 15 - 17, 2015 Hartford, Connecticut
July 15 - 17, 2015 Las Vegas, Nevada
Fees FIRM HOSTED
Equal-share estimate: $850 - $1,175 USD Hotel based fee: $1,175 USD
ASD B: Beginning In-Charge Training PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Beginning In-charge Training (Level 3) is designed for individuals transitioning to the role of senior or in-charge on the audit engagement team. This course includes significant content on the audit process, project management, supervision, and file review to prepare the participant for in-field leadership responsibilities. The course includes significant technical content related to evaluating activity level controls, assessing and responding to risk and performing tests of controls, and substantive samples. This course will challenge participants to put the audit pieces together and step into a more advanced role on the audit team. TARGET AUDIENCE Individuals who are newly promoted to the in-charge or senior role or are moving toward such role (typically individuals with two years of audit experience or two audit busy seasons) and who will be asked to supervise staff LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Supervise, complete or contribute to all required risk assessment procedures • Evaluate the design effectiveness of a client’s activity level controls • Perform and supervise the performance of key audit procedures including tests of controls, samples and analytical procedures • Manage audit fieldwork including organizing the project and supervising team members MODULE SUMMARY Audit Knowledge and Skills • Analytical Procedures • Documentation and Review • Audit Process & Understanding the Entity • Risk Assessment Procedures - Activity Level Controls • Risk Assessment • Responding to Risk • Control Testing • Substantive Sampling • Introduction, Reviews and Quizzes Foundational Skills • Communication - Business Writing • Project Management • Supervision - Styles & Feedback • Supervision - Teaching & Delegating • Time Management & Organization PACE TOTAL PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK ELEMENTS Competencies • Communication • • • • •
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Conceptual Thinking Developing Self and Others Influence Teamwork Technical Excellence
Contributions • Client Service • Firm Economics • People Development
ASD C: Experienced In-Charge Training PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Experienced In-charge Training (Level 4) is designed for individuals with experience as the in-field leader. The course is designed to advance the skills and effectiveness of participants addressing more advanced audit process steps such as evaluating management, and setting and responding to financial statement level risks, including those created from a lack of entity level controls. It challenges participants to develop the ability to create custom responses to the risk on the engagements. This course will provide a variety of training related to technical accounting and auditing topics. In addition, you will receive robust researchbased content related to motivating team members for effective and efficient performance. TARGET AUDIENCE Individuals who have had in-charge responsibility on engagements, including the responsibility of supervising and evaluating the work of others (typically individuals with a minimum of three years experience) LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Evaluate the design effectiveness of a client’s entity level controls • Design audit programs and audit program steps to respond to identified risks • Assess self and other individuals motivation and personal style for leading, communicating and dealing with conflict • Address challenging accounting and auditing issues in areas such as revenue recognition, inventory valuation, and recognizing commitments, contingencies and accounting estimates MODULE SUMMARY Audit Knowledge and Skills • Estimates • Risk Assessment Procedures - Entity Level Controls • Risk Assessment and Responding to Risk - Financial Statement Level • Responding to Assertion Level Risk • General Technology Controls Accounting and Auditing of Financials Statement Areas • Revenue • Commitments & Contingencies • Introduction, Reviews and Quizzes Foundational Skills • Communication - Teamwork • Meeting People and Networking • Supervising and Motivating Team Members • Interpersonal Skills
• • • • • • • •
Conceptual Thinking Developing Self and Others Influence Initiative Relationship Building Results Orientation Teamwork Technical Excellence
Prerequisite ASD B: Beginning In-Charge Training, and/or 3+ years professional experience Level of Knowledge Intermediate Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and case studies Advance Preparation • Participants will be provided with precourse work after registration • Approximately 90 to 120 minutes of reading, case study work and preparation Estimated CPE Accounting - 2 hours Auditing - 17 hours Professional Development - 5 hours Dates and Locations FIRM HOSTED
May 18 - 20, 2015 Hagerstown, Maryland
June 1 - 3, 2015 Las Vegas, Nevada
June 22 - 24, 2015 Chicago, Illinois
Fees FIRM HOSTED
PACE TOTAL PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK ELEMENTS Competencies • Communication
Program Duration 3 days
Equal-share estimate: $850 - $1,175 USD Hotel based fee: $1,175 USD
Contributions • Client Service • Firm Economics • People Development
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CSD B: Executing Engagements PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Staff accountants assume technical responsibility on engagements. This program introduces effective and efficient planning and skills used in final fieldwork. It will address the more complex and involved areas typically performed by experienced staff which includes numerous case studies on common A&A issues and helps staff understand tasks and responsibilities beyond specific audit areas. TARGET AUDIENCE Individuals typically with 12 months experience who are ready to take on responsibility of completing engagements LEARNING OBJECTIVES Upon completion, participants will be able to: • Describe the role of the experienced staff accountant • Describe common A&A issues in inventory valuation, estimates and reserves, income tax provisions, and debt covenants and leases • Identify efficiency considerations • Identify characteristics of appropriate management letter comments • Describe general matters such as related party transactions, subsequent events, commitments and contingencies • Draft financial statements • Prepare the statement of cash flow Program Duration 2 days Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Basic Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and case studies Advance Preparation None Dates and Locations October 5 - 6, 2015 location to be confirmed CANADA Fees Equal-share estimate: $500 - $800 USD
CSD C: Introduction to Engagement Planning and Supervision PROGRAM DESCRIPTION This program will build on the technical experience of staff, and introduce tips and techniques needed to begin daily supervision. This course includes case studies on planning, budgeting and time management, reviewing documentation, performing strong analytics and getting the engagement “out the door”. TARGET AUDIENCE Individuals typically with at least two years experience who are ready to take on the added responsibility of supervising one or more staff LEARNING OBJECTIVES Upon completion, participants will be able to: • Describe the role of the in-charge staff accountant • Plan and document an engagement, including: client management, designing risk-based work programs, budgeting and preliminary analytical review • Identify the importance of strong supervision and sound teaching techniques • Identify when to delegate vs. “do-it-yourself” • Provide constructive feedback • Describe the role and timing of each reviewer on the engagement team • Review documentation and write clear review notes • Identify how to finish and close engagements • Analyze time management in a typical day • Develop expectations and perform strong analytical reviews • Describe the impact of going concern and related party transactions Program Duration 2 days Prerequisite CSD B: Executing Engagements and/or equivalent experience Level of Knowledge Intermediate Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and case studies Advance Preparation None Date October 7 - 8, 2015 location to be confirmed CANADA Fees Equal-share estimate: $500 - $800 USD
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CSD D: Project Management & Supervision PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Project Management and Supervision course moves experienced incharges beyond the basics. The program will help participants understand how to adapt leadership styles to different situations, manage multiple projects and assume a more significant client service role, including providing constructive management feedback. TARGET AUDIENCE Individuals typically with a minimum of three years of experience who have had in-charge responsibility on engagements, including the responsibility of supervising and evaluating the work of others LEARNING OBJECTIVES Upon completion, participants will be able to: • Manage engagements for maximum efficiency by identifying common pitfalls and related solutions • Organize and control difficult situations using situational leadership • Identify how to motivate people, coach team members and provide performance feedback • Describe best practices related to superior client service • Identify ways to add value to clients Program Duration 2 days
Canadian Manager Training Module PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Canadian Manager Training Module was designed and taught by technicians for CPAs who have recently or are preparing to transition to a managerial role. This 2-day program covers concepts and skills to enable the performance of managerial roles in the public accounting profession. These skills include communication with clients, mentoring, coaching and leadership, as well as specific project management and managing multiple overlapping projects. Additionally, this program provides skills training on basic productive activities designed to grow and maintain a practice, including building work with existing clients and developing new contacts. TARGET AUDIENCE For individuals who have recently or are preparing to transition to a managerial role LEARNING OBJECTIVES Upon completion, participants will be able to: • Design and hold a coaching session with an individual • Design a mentoring relationship plan • Describe and apply multiple strategies and techniques for improving team management and leadership • Apply strategies to improve project efficiency and effectiveness • Allocate and balance time blocks between roles and responsibilities • Describe how to prioritize tasks, roles and responsibilities • Identify productive actions and strategies to aid in developing new business
Prerequisite CSD C: Introduction to Engagement Planning and Supervision and/or equivalent experience
Program Duration 2 days
Level of Knowledge Intermediate
Prerequisite Equivalent experience
Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions and discussion groups
Level of Knowledge Intermediate
Advance Preparation None
Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and case studies
Date October 19 - 20, 2015 location to be confirmed CANADA
Advance Preparation None
Fees Equal-share estimate: $500 - $800 USD
Date and Location October 21 - 22, 2015 location to be confirmed CANADA Fees Equal-share estimate: $800 - $1,100 USD
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Program Duration 3 days Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Intermediate Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups, case studies and simulations Advance Preparation Reading provided by instructors Estimated CPE Communication; Personal Development - 22 hours Dates and Locations FIRM HOSTED
May 4 - 6, 2015 Hagerstown, Maryland
July 13 - 15, 2015 Chicago, Illinois
August 3 - 5, 2015 Las Vegas, Nevada
LP1: Leading Engagements PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Leading Engagements is designed to provide participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully lead engagements from a professional and people skills perspective. The course connects the five fundamental phases of engagements (initiating, planning, executing, controlling and closing) to leading people, effective communication, team, meaningful and effective feedback, delegation, accountability (self and others) and time management. The program is hands-on and requires participants to develop a personal action plan. TARGET AUDIENCE Individuals with approximately four years experience who have had in-charge responsibility on all types of engagements and who currently have the responsibility of supervising and evaluating the work of others LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Describe the components of the five phases of engagement execution • Establish engagement standards • Build effective teams • Communicate performance expectations • Leverage engagement resources • Describe techniques for communicating with a variety of individuals • Plan efficient and effective meetings for both internal and external audiences • Measure engagement progress and prepare status reports • Address client satisfaction • Describe the standards of professionalism for supervisors PACE TOTAL PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK ELEMENTS
November 4 - 6, 2015 Atlanta, Georgia
Fees FIRM HOSTED
Equal-share estimate: $1,150 - $1,495 USD Hotel based fee: $1,495 USD
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Competencies • Change Orientation • Communication • Conceptual Thinking • Developing Self and Others • Influence • Initiative • Relationship Building • Results Orientation • Teamwork
Contributions • Business Development • Client Service • Firm Economics • People Development
LP2: Leading People
Program Duration 3 days
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Leading People is designed to provide practical understanding of the management and motivation of yourself and others as well as help improve interpersonal skills. TARGET AUDIENCE Individuals with at least five years experience and supervisory responsibility LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Discuss employee motivation and morale by understanding people at work in a professional environment • Describe and employ effective communication styles and techniques • Give effective performance feedback using coaching skills to help others become more effective • Create personal growth and development conditions for others within the practice environment • Transfer ownership of tasks and the need for behavior change to coworkers • Influence and/or remove barriers to motivation and morale including negativity • Identify individual growth and self-development needs • Influence team members to create a high-performing team • Understand the impact of expectations on performance • Understand how to set priorities and delegate to be more effective as a supervisor PACE TOTAL PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK ELEMENTS Competencies • Communication • Developing Self and Others • Influence • Initiative • Relationship Building • Results Orientation • Teamwork
Contributions • People Development
Prerequisite Leading Engagements and/or equivalent experience Level of Knowledge Intermediate Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups, case studies and simulations Advance Preparation Reading provided by instructors and assessments Estimated CPE Personal Development - 27 hours Dates and Locations FIRM May 18 - 20, 2015 HOSTED Hagerstown, Maryland
June 17 - 19, 2015 Indianapolis, Indiana
FIRM HOSTED
July 29 - 31, 2015 San Jose, California
FIRM HOSTED
August 12 - 14, 2015 Dallas, Texas
October 19 - 21, 2015 Las Vegas, Nevada
Fees FIRM HOSTED
Equal-share estimate: $1,330 - $1,575 USD Hotel based fee: $1,575 USD
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Program Duration 4 sessions, 2 days each over 12 months Prerequisite Leading People and/or equivalent experience Level of Knowledge Intermediate/Advanced Delivery Method Group live: multiple meetings including instructor-led sessions, discussion groups, case studies, simulations and individualized career development planning. Advance Preparation Reading assignments and assessment processes Estimated CPE Personal Development approximately 17 hours per session Dates and Locations 2014 - 2015 SUMMER CLASS Session #4: May 14 - 15, 2015 Chicago, Illinois 2014 - 2015 FALL CLASS Session #4: May 20 - 21, 2015 Baltimore, Maryland 2015 - 2016 SUMMER CLASS Session #1: June 17 - 18, 2015 San Antonio, Texas Session #2: Sept. 21 - 22, 2015 Chicago, Illinois Session #3: Nov. 19 - 20, 2015 Phoenix, Arizona Session #4: June 2016 TBD 2014 - 2015 MID-ATLANTIC CLASS FIRM Session #3: May 18 - 19, 2015 HOSTED Columbia, Maryland FIRM Session #4: August 24 - 25, 2015 HOSTED Columbia, Maryland 2015 - 2016 MID-ATLANTIC CLASS FIRM Session #1: Aug. 26 - 27, 2015 HOSTED Columbia, Maryland FIRM Session #2: Dec. 7 - 8, 2015 HOSTED Columbia, Maryland FIRM Session #3: May 16 - 17, 2016 HOSTED Columbia, Maryland FIRM Session #4: Aug. 15 - 16, 2016 HOSTED Columbia, Maryland Fees FIRM
HOSTED
Hotel based fee: $6,500 USD
Equal-share of actual cost
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LP3: Leading Through Managing PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Leading Through Managing is designed to help experienced managers develop the skills to lead people and teams, communicate effectively, coach and counsel, solve problems, manage projects, develop business and discuss the state of the public accounting profession. This program goes beyond the introduction of principles, but encourages and facilitates the application of these skills on-the-job. The format of the program includes four, two-day sessions over 12 months. PKF North America is excited to offer members two options for LP3 in 2014. A hotel based program that rotates locations and a program hosted by the Mid-Atlantic Consortium that will be based in Columbia, Maryland. TARGET AUDIENCE Individuals with a minimum six years experience and/or individuals acting in the capacity of a seasoned manager or team leader who have management responsibilities on client-serving teams and/or internal firm projects LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Identify and prioritize career and personal goals • Display effective leadership through communication and teamwork • Effectively coach team members and facilitate on-the-job learning • Describe performance management techniques and appropriately counsel team members • Describe methods and processes for facilitating meetings and conducting client interviews • Describe negotiating tactics to gain support for a point of view and how to influence others to act upon recommendations • Apply effective speaking skills for both informal and formal presentations • Apply the elements of firm economics to project and engagement management • Develop effective and efficient time management skills, accomplish goals, define the activities, tasks and timeline, and measure status • Discuss the latest trends in the public accounting profession • Identify value-added opportunities and create client service business plans that include other service lines, where appropriate PACE TOTAL PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK ELEMENTS Competencies • Change Orientation • Communication • Conceptual Thinking • Developing Self and Others • Influence • Initiative • Relationship Building • Results Orientation • Strategic Thinking • Teamwork
Contributions • Business Development • Client Service • People Development • Firm Economics
LP4: Program for Emerging Leaders PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Program for Emerging Leaders includes a practical results-oriented curriculum to develop a leader’s knowledge, skills and abilities, and to motivate the next-generation workforce into helping create an agile, clientand market-driven environment. The format of the program includes four, three day sessions over two years, full assessment center and executive coaching.
TARGET AUDIENCE
New partners, owners, shareholders and/or senior managers with significant leadership responsibilities
LEARNING OBJECTIVES • • • • • • • • • •
Identify personal leadership strengths and development needs Discover personal leadership strengths of future leadership potential Realize unused capabilities and how to leverage them Manage people, processes, performance and profits Develop the complex communication skills required of a leader Delegate responsibilities and coach others effectively Identify the elements of a successful and realistic business development approach Describe how to convert tactics into strategy and instill accountability in oneself and others Identify the critical attributes of effective conflict management Use tools that influence effectively and appropriately
PACE TOTAL PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK ELEMENTS Competencies • Change Orientation • Communication • Conceptual Thinking • Developing Self and Others • Influence • Initiative • Relationship Building • Results Orientation • Strategic Thinking • Teamwork
Contributions • Business Development • Client Service • Firm Economics • People Development
Program Duration 4 sessions, 3 days each over 2 years Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups, case studies, webinars and individual coaching sessions Advance Preparation Reading assignments and assessment processes Estimated CPE Personal Development approximately 22 hours per session Dates and Locations 2014 - 2015 SUMMER CLASS Session #3 May 20 - 22, 2015 Indianapolis, Indiana Session #4 October 19 - 21, 2015 Salt Lake City, Utah 2014 - 2015 FALL CLASS Session #3 May 13 - 15, 2015 Chicago, Illinois Session #4 October 21 - 23, 2015 Salt Lake City, Utah 2015 - 2016 SUMMER CLASS Session #1 June 17 - 19, 2015 San Antonio, Texas Session #2 November 11 - 13, 2015 Charleston, South Carolina Session #3 May/June 2016 TBD Session #4 October/November 2016 TBD Fees $12,500 USD
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Program Duration 3 sessions, 2 days each Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups, one-on-one coaching, case studies and simulations Advance Preparation Selected reading assignments provided by the instructor Estimated CPE Personal Development 15 hours per session Dates and Locations 2015-2016 CLASS Session #1 August 17 - 18, 2015 Boston, Massachusetts SESSION #2 TBD SESSION #3 TBD Fees Equal-share estimate: $6,500 USD
LP5: Experienced Partner Leadership PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Experienced Partner Leadership is a unique program specifically targeted to experienced partners, owners and shareholders. This program is different from others in the PKF North America leadership series because the focus is not about preparing for the next rung on the career ladder, but instead on the ability as a partner to continue to increase value proposition to the firm regardless of your years of experience. TARGET AUDIENCE Experienced partners, owners and shareholders LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Understand how partners in your firm see your strengths and areas for improvement via an anonymous 360° feedback instrument • Create a personalized development plan that outlines the steps for you to go to the next level of leadership effectiveness • Build relationships with colleagues during and after the workshop as a learning resource • Learn how to apply the three dimensions of success: personal engagement, trusting relationships and goal achievement • Learn how to recognize unproductive thinking styles in yourself and others and coach others to adopt more productive approaches • Master the art of having difficult conversations with honesty, respect and effectiveness • Learn how to build strong accountability in others and how to effectively transition work assignments • Understand differences between coaching and managing and apply the learning to real case situations • Learn how leadership behaviors, organizational systems and symbols create the work environment and culture at your firm PACE TOTAL PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK ELEMENTS Competencies • Change Orientation • Communication • Conceptual Thinking • Developing Self and Others • Influence • Initiative • Relationship Building • Results Orientation • Strategic Thinking • Teamwork
Contributions • Business Development • Client Service • Firm Economics • People Development
*We are actively seeking participants for this program. Contact PKF North America with questions or for additional information, 770.279.4560.
Program will not be offered again until 2017.
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LP6: Program for Strategic Firm Leadership PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Program for Strategic Firm Leadership addresses key issues for managing a firm in the public accounting profession. Participants will identify how to leverage their personal leadership style in all aspects of managing the firm through workshops, assessment and executive coaching. TARGET AUDIENCE Individuals who have, or anticipate having a specific executive leadership role, including managing partners, executive committee members, operations officers and office in-charge partners LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Analyze your firm’s approach to firm/practice management using case study discussion and peer input • Understand one’s personal approach and solutions to managing conflict • Understand the basics of coaching partners • Apply one’s personal leadership strengths and manage gaps in managing the professional services firm through identified short-term and long-term development plans • Understand leadership impact from both an individual and cultural perspective PACE TOTAL PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK ELEMENTS Competencies • Change Orientation • Communication • Conceptual Thinking • Developing Self and Others • Influence • Initiative • Relationship Building • Results Orientation • Strategic Thinking • Teamwork
Contributions • Business Development • Client Service • Firm Economics • People Development
Program Duration 3 sessions, 1 ½ days each Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, assessment, discussion groups and individualized coaching Advance Preparation Selected reading assignments and assessments Estimated CPE Business Management & Organization/Personal Development - 13 hours per session Dates and Locations 2015-2016 CLASS Session #1: August 6 - 7, 2015 Cambridge, Massachusetts Session #2: May 14 - 15, 2016 Orlando, Florida Session #3: November 5 - 6, 2016 Beverly Hills, California
*We are actively seeking participants for this program. Contact PKF North America with questions or for additional information, 770.279.4560.
Fees Equal-share
Program will not be offered again until 2017.
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Program Duration 3 days Prerequisite 1+ years professional experience Level of Knowledge Intermediate Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and case studies Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE Taxation - 20 hours Personal Development - 4 hours Date and Location May 4 - 6, 2015 Las Vegas, Nevada
November 4 - 6, 2015 Atlanta, Georgia
Fees $1,175 USD
TSD A: Business & Intermediate Individual Taxation PROGRAM DESCRIPTION TSD A: Business & Intermediate Individual Taxation (Level Two) is designed for staff tax preparers. The program covers both individual and business tax subjects. It focuses on delivering a core understanding of the common tax topics that tax preparers encounter every day. The business tax section of the program covers the fundamental tax laws for each type of business entity, as well as other topics such as book to tax reconciliation, basis and depreciation. The program also provides skills training related to communication, obtaining and organizing information and time management. This program includes extension case study exercises and tax court case review. TARGET AUDIENCE Designed for staff tax preparers LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Identify the fundamental tax laws governing C Corporations, S Corporations, Limited Liability Companies and Partnerships • Calculate permanent differences, timing differences, taxable income, separately stated items and ordinary income • Review the tax principals of other business topics such as basis, depreciation and state apportionments • Explain the tax treatment of selected individual income tax topics • Explore selected tax principles for rental property and self-employment income • Compute alternative minimum tax adjustments and preferences • Improve communication, business writing and organizational skills Business Tax Topics - 12 hours • • • •
C Corporation & S Corporation Introduction to LLCs and Partnerships Schedule K, M-1 & M-2 Basis Fundamentals - S Corporation
• Depreciation • State Apportionments • Intro, Review and Quizzes
Individual Tax Topics - 8 hours • Other Adjustments to Income • Home Foreclosure and Cancellation of Debt • Selected Sch C & Rental Property Topics
• Alternative Minimum Taxes • Intro, Review and Quizzes
Foundational Skills - 4 hours • Communication - Business Writing
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• Self-Management & Organization
TSD B: Comprehensive Business, Individual & Fiduciary Taxation PROGRAM DESCRIPTION TSD B: Comprehensive Business, Individual & Fiduciary Taxation (Level Three) is designed for individuals that are beginning the transition from tax preparer to tax reviewer and advisor. The program covers individual and business tax themes, as well as an introduction to estate and trust tax law. This course is designed to challenge the participants core tax knowledge needed to become a tax reviewer. The program also provides training designed for those juggling the role of preparer and reviewer. TARGET AUDIENCE Designed for individuals that are beginning the transition from tax preparer to tax reviewer and advisor LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the various types of business entities in order to advise on business creation • Review the principles of selected core business income tax topics • Explain the tax treatment of selected individual income tax topics • Describe the process for filing a descendant’s final income tax return and identify the basics of estate/ trust taxation as well as gift tax law • Improve on tax return review techniques and learn to provide effective and constructive feedback • Manage information, clients and projects more efficiently Business Tax Topics - 11 hours • Advising on Business Creation • Built in Gains • Basis
• Deferred Taxes • Passive Activities & At Risk Rules • Intro, Review and Quizzes
Program Duration 3 days Prerequisite 3+ years professional experience Level of Knowledge Intermediate Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and case studies Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE Taxation - 21 hours Personal Development - 3 hours Dates and Locations May 13 - 15, 2015 Las Vegas, Nevada
November 11 - 13, 2015 Atlanta, Georgia
Fees $1,175 USD
Individual Tax Topics - 7 hours • Retirement Contributions & Distributions • Equity Based Compensation
• AMT and the Minimum Tax Credit • Intro, Review and Quizzes
Estates, Trusts & Gift Taxes - 2 hours • Intro to Estates, Trusts, Gifts & Dependents Tax Return Foundational Skills - 4 hours • Reviewing Tax Returns • Providing Feedback
• Project Planning • Time Management
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Program Duration 3 days
TSD C: Advanced Business, Individual, & Fiduciary Taxation
Prerequisite 4+ years professional experience
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION TSD C: Advanced Business, Individual, & Fiduciary Taxation (Level Four) is designed to advance the skills and knowledge of participants. This program covers advanced individual and business topics such as divorce, foreign taxes and state nexus. Significant portions of the course focus on LLC and Partnership taxes, as well as estate, gift and trust tax law. The program also provides professional skills training
Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and case studies Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE Taxation - 18 hours Personal Development - 6 hours Dates and Locations FIRM HOSTED
June 3 - 5, 2015 Cincinnati, Ohio
Fees Equal-share estimate: $850 - $1,175 USD
focused on managing, supervising, training and delegating. TARGET AUDIENCE Designed to advance the skills and knowledge of participants LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Explore the core limited liability and partnership tax issues • Explore other advanced business income tax topics such as state tax nexus and various tax elections • Review laws governing foreign taxes and divorce • Brainstorm tax planning strategies • Discuss estate and trust taxation and multi-generational gifting strategies • Apply professional skills of supervision and communication Business Tax Topics - 9 hours • LLC and Partnership Tax Issues • Basis and At-Risk • Capital Accounts • Partner Distributions
• Various Tax Elections • State Tax Nexus • Intro, Review and Quizzes
Individual Tax Topics - 6 hours • Foreign Taxes • Tax Planning
• Divorce • Intro, Review and Quizzes
Estates & Trusts - 4 hours • Estate Tax Law • Types of Trusts
• Gift Taxes
Foundational Skills - 5 hours • Supervising, Training and Delegating • Conflict Management
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• Work Life Balance
TSD: LLC and Partnership Tax Boot Camp PROGRAM DESCRIPTION This program is designed to immerse the participants in the many details of LLC and partnership tax law. The material covers the range from big picture concepts to detailed specific nuances. The interactive approach includes lecture, group activities, as well as comprehensive case studies. TARGET AUDIENCE Designed for seniors and managers; not partner/director level LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Explore the core limited liability and partnership tax issues • Explore other advanced business income tax topics such as state tax nexus and various tax elections • Review laws governing foreign taxes and divorce • Brainstorm tax planning strategies • Discuss estate and trust taxation and multi-generational gifting strategies • Apply professional skills of supervision and communication
Program Duration 2 days Prerequisite 2 - 5 years professional experience Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and case studies Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE Taxation - 16 hours Dates and Locations August 17 - 18, 2015 Las Vegas, Nevada
TOPICS INCLUDE • Basis and At-Risk • Capital Accounts • Partner Distributions • Partner Contributions • Other Payments to Partners • Special Allocations and Substantial Economic Effect • Sale of Partnership Interest • IRC 754 Election Adjustment • Comprehensive Case Studies
Fees $1,175 USD
ADDITIONAL OPTIONAL MATERIAL • Transactions between Partner and Partnership • Nonrecourse Liabilities and Minimum Gain • Other Partnership Topics
NEW OFFERING!
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Human Resources Conference
Putting People First Webinar Series
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Human Resources Conference explores the best practices related to the selection, development, retention and latest trends of individuals working in public accounting. It is a hands-on program designed to provide the participants with tools and techniques that assist in applying the knowledge acquired during the program.
The PKF North America Human Resources Committee sponsors quarterly webinars to discuss various topics related to best practices for your firm’s people policies. The specific details of each program are announced at least 30 days prior to the event via email.
TARGET AUDIENCE Human resource professionals, firm administrators, managing partners, and/or anyone with responsibility for setting the “people policy” within a firm LEARNING OBJECTIVES This program is responsive to the latest trends in the profession. The specific learning objectives will be communicated in the formal event announcement approximately 60 days in advance of the program. Program Duration 1 ½ days
PKF North America distributes a webinar newsletter once a month to streamline the number of emails received from us and to increase awareness of the virtual learning opportunities offered. The newsletter is distributed only to appropriate mailing lists based on the upcoming virtual events. The estimated cost of a webinar varies from $75 to $100 per connection to connect, not per registered participant. Recordings of some webinars will be available for a nominal fee. Refer to the Events Calendar on the member website at www.pkfna.org for current schedules.
Level of Knowledge All levels
POTENTIAL TOPICS • Using Social Media • Succession Planning • M&A • Retention • Onboarding • Recruiting
Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and case studies
Depending on the content, format and specific rules of your state’s Board of Accountancy, these events may qualify for CPE credit.
Advance Preparation Dependent upon speaker
PKF North America is a NASBA Certified CPE provider for webinars. To receive your CPE certificate in a timely manner, each participant needs to register online prior to the webinar. After the webinar has taken place each participant will need to complete and submit the CPE attendance form. Full submission details can be found on the form.
Prerequisite None
Estimated CPE 14 hours Date and Location August 19 - 21, 2015 San Diego, California Fees $950 USD
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Crucial Conversations Training PROGRAM DESCRIPTION This course is designed to provide associates, at all levels, the principles to handle life’s most difficult and important conversations. By preparing for high-stake situations, transforming anger and hurt feelings into powerful dialogue and making it safe to talk about almost anything to almost anyone, relationships are strengthened and results are improved. TARGET AUDIENCE High potential staff, senior managers, partners and business developers LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Identify conversations that are keeping you from desired results • Speak persuasively, not abrasively, no matter the topic • Make it safe for others to share their honest opinions • Gain control of your own emotional response to critical conversations
The 5 Choices to Extraordinary Productivity PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The 5 Choices to Extraordinary Productivity two-part workshop defines a process that will measurably increase the productivity of individuals, teams and organizations. These choices will enable associates to make more selective, high-impact choices about where to invest their valuable time, attention and energy. TARGET AUDIENCE All professionals LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Filter the vitally important priorities from distractions • Redefine roles in terms of extraordinary results to achieve high-priority goals • Regain control of work and life through a cadence of planning and execution that produces extraordinary outcomes • Benefit from the latest in brain science to consistently recharge mental and physical energy
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Signature Program PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Signature Program focuses on taking initiative, balancing key priorities, improving interpersonal communication, leveraging creative collaboration and applying principles for achieving a balanced life. Each of the seven habits/focus areas will equip leaders to lead in the 21st century. TARGET AUDIENCE Senior manager and above LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Take initiative • Develop a mission statement and values that align with the organization • Balance key priorities • Leverage creative collaboration
Your firm can now leverage these VitalSmarts & Franklin Covey programs at your offices. If interested, please contact PKF North America at 770.279.4560 or Linda Haynes from Wipfli LLP at 608.661.2627.
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CLIENT SERVICES
▶ INTERNATIONAL CONNECTION ▶ EXPERTISE PORTAL International Connection
Expertise Portal
Earn your IBFD – PKF North America Advanced Professional Certificate in International Taxation in 2015! PKF North America has teamed up with IBFD to offer members a unique opportunity to develop and strengthen their own in-house capabilities in international taxation. The AICPA identified international tax as the fastest growing niche service in 2014 among the top 100 U.S. firms. Differentiate yourself by demonstrating to your clients and prospects that you have the expertise to support their global growth and expansion. IBFD is one of the world’s foremost authorities on international taxation (www.ibfd.com).
The Accounting & Auditing and Tax regional roundtables, held throughout the year, are designed to be open forums for participants to discuss various topics and share best practices.
THE CERTIFICATION PROGRAM CONSISTS OF THREE COMPONENTS: • Fundamentals of International Taxation – six online course modules • Selected Issues in Corporate International Tax Structuring – six course modules consisting of a combination of webcast and self-study cases • Treaty and Transfer Pricing Aspects of International Tax Planning – a three day course to be delivered on location in the United States (exact location to be confirmed)
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The annual PKF North America Summit is a national event that brings together Accounting & Auditing and Tax professionals from across the PKF North America membership. The Summit content includes technical updates, roundtables and timely topical presentations. For access to industry-targeted best practices see the Communities of Practice section of this catalog on page 29.
Advanced Professional Certificate in International Taxation PROGRAM DESCRIPTION This Advanced Professional Certificate is offered by the IBFD in collaboration with PKF North America for tax professionals who wish to undertake a series of structured training in international tax, with a view to becoming a certified expert in this field. Participants are assessed at each stage of the program. Those who achieve the required standards in the final assessment will be awarded the IBFD-PKF North America Advanced Professional Certificate in International Taxation. TARGET AUDIENCE Managers and partners
Program Duration Participants are expected to complete the entire program in 13 months. Participants will have access to IBFD online study guides on corporate international tax structuring and transfer pricing as well as online coaching from an IBFD expert during this time. Prerequisite Six years domestic tax experience
LEARNING OBJECTIVES The certification program consists of three components: 1. Fundamentals of International Taxation – six online course modules (70 hours CPE): • Describe the key concepts of the international tax environment • Identify the aspects of domestic tax systems, which may impact cross-border transactions • Explain how tax treaties operate and recognize the most important provisions • Identify the main methods of double taxation relief and discuss how to apply them • Describe the implications of tax treaties and their commentaries • Recognize availability and eligibility for tax treaty benefits • Discuss the tax treaty making process and identify some of the broader policy issues that impact the development of international tax policy • Recognize the issues arising from, and discuss the principles of, tax treaty interpretation 2. Selected Issues in Corporate International Tax Structuring (intermediate level) – six course modules consisting of a combination of live webcast and self-study cases (10 hours CPE): • The G20 economies, through the work of the OECD as well as the European Union, have identified base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS) as a serious risk to tax revenues, tax sovereignty and tax fairness internationally. Many tax professionals have asked themselves and their colleagues what BEPS means for their businesses and the businesses of their clients. The course modules are designed to provide an update on the BEPS discussions and explore what they mean to tax practitioners. • Module 1 - Current Issues in International Tax Planning (webcast) • Module 2 - Tax Planning for Holding and Financing Activities (webcast) • Module 3 - Case Study – Structuring of Holding and Financing Activities (self-study) • Module 4 - Treaty ‘Abuse’ and Beneficial Ownership (webcast) • Module 5 - Hybrid Mismatches in Tax Planning (webcast) • Module 6 - Case Study – Structuring of E-Commerce Activities (self-study) 3. Treaty and Transfer Pricing Aspects of International Tax Planning (advanced level) – three day course to be delivered on location in the United States (20 hours CPE): • This course is designed to provide participants who deal with international tax planning in practice with updates on tax treaty and transfer pricing developments that are relevant to their practice. The topics covered include the international tax treaty issues relevant to tax planning treasury functions, supply chain restructuring and intangible, as well as specific transfer pricing considerations in these areas. Comparisons with US international tax policies and practices will be made where relevant. • Treaty and Transfer Pricing Aspects of International Tax Planning
• Transfer Pricing Aspects of Intangibles Tax Planning
• Substantive Tax Planning Business Restructuring
• Tax Planning for R&D Activities and Intangible Property
• Tax Structuring through Debt Financing
• Transfer Pricing and Intra-group Finance
• Tax Treaty Aspects of Intangibles
• Case studies
Level of Knowledge Intermediate - Advanced Delivery Method Group live: self-study, instructor-led webcasts, on-site instruction, case studies Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE Taxation - 100 hours Dates and Locations June 2015 - October 2015 Six online self-study modules November 2015 - May 2016 Six live webcast/self-study cases June 2016 3 day on-site live classroom course Location: North America Fees $4,300 USD plus lodging/food expenses for 3-day advanced on-site training. Firms will be billed in three installments. The additional cost of the on-site training will be billed separately on an equal-share basis. Cancellations after June 1, 2015 will forfeit 100% of the cost of the program. Contact PKF North America with questions or for additional information, 770.279.4560.
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Accounting & Auditing and Tax Roundtables
Canadian Standards Interest Group Fly-In
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Accounting & Auditing and Tax Roundtables are designed as open forums to discuss topics of interest and share best practices related to practice management, products and services, resources, and tools. In some
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Canadian Standards Interest Group Fly-In is designed to provide networking opportunities within a learning environment. Participants will benefit from the shared experiences of other members. Each annual gathering is an inclusive learning community that actively involves members of the PKF North America Canadian Standards Interest Group. Frequently, leaders of the profession are asked to provide technical updates.
cases, technical training may also be offered. TARGET AUDIENCE Accounting & Auditing or Tax professionals – managers and partners LEARNING OBJECTIVES This program is responsive to the latest trends in the profession. The specific learning objectives will be communicated in the formal event announcement approximately 60 days in advance of the program. Program Duration 1 day Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Intermediate Delivery Method Group live: facilitated roundtable discussions Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE TBD based on meeting agenda Dates and Locations A&A Northeast Roundtable (with NAAATS) - July 12, 2015 | Baltimore, Maryland Tax Northeast Roundtable - May 27, 2015 | Windsor Locks, Connecticut A&A Southeast Roundtable - June 8, 2015 | Atlanta, Georgia Tax Southeast Roundtable - June 10, 2015 | Atlanta, Georgia A&A West Roundtable - June 3, 2015 | Las Vegas, Nevada Tax West Roundtable - June 1, 2015 | Las Vegas, Nevada Fees Equal-share estimate: $350 USD
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TARGET AUDIENCE Canadian standards partners and managers LEARNING OBJECTIVES This program is responsive to the latest trends in the profession. The specific learning objectives will be communicated in the formal event announcement approximately 60 days in advance of the program. Program Duration 1 day Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Intermediate/Advanced Delivery Method Group live: Instructor-led sessions, discussion groups Advance Preparation None Date and Location January 2016 Las Vegas, Nevada Fees Equal-share estimate: $600 USD
Canadian Tax Interest Group Fly-In
PKF North America Summit A&A and Tax Tracks
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Canadian tax practitioners present technical programs of interest. Participants appreciate the significant emphasis on networking and sharing best practices.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Designed to give attendees a chance to participate in a variety of timely, yet unique, sessions related to accounting and auditing, taxation, niche-related, and management topics. This program includes ample opportunities for networking with other members and provides a forum for sharing your firm’s unique products and services with other member firms. Participants will choose from concurrent tracks for Tax and A&A with presenters that are either nationally recognized or who are subject matter experts from member firms. Participants will have access to industry leaders and develop strong relationships throughout the member base.
TARGET AUDIENCE Canadian tax partners and managers, U.S. tax practitioners who prepare expatriate returns for Canadians may also benefit. Canadian Tax Interest Group members with intermediate to advance knowledge are encouraged to participate as well. LEARNING OBJECTIVES This program is responsive to the latest trends in the profession. The specific learning objectives will be communicated in the formal event announcement approximately 60 days in advance of the program.
TARGET AUDIENCE Managers and above
Program Duration 1 - 1 ½ days
LEARNING OBJECTIVES This program is responsive to the latest trends in the profession, the specific learning objectives will be communicated in the formal event announcement approximately 60 days in advance of the program.
Prerequisite None
Program Duration 2 ½ days
Level of Knowledge Intermediate/Advanced
Prerequisite None
Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions and discussion groups
Level of Knowledge Intermediate/Advanced
Advance Preparation None
Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and case studies, and facilitated roundtable discussions
Dates and Locations October 4, 2015 Vancouver, British Columbia CANADA January 2016 Las Vegas, Nevada Fees Equal-share estimate: $600 USD
Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE 15 - 18 hours Date and Location November 15 - 18, 2015 Charleston, South Carolina Fees Average: $1,500 - $1,650 USD
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Technical Topic Webinar Series PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Accounting & Auditing and Tax Committees sponsor periodic webinars to discuss technical issues. PKF North America distributes a webinar newsletter once a month to streamline the number of emails you receive from us and to increase awareness of the virtual learning opportunities we offer. The newsletter is distributed only to appropriate mailing lists based on the upcoming virtual events. The estimated cost of a webinar varies from $75 to $275 per connection, not per registered participant. Recordings of some webinars will be available for a nominal fee. Refer to the Events Calendar on the member website at www.pkfna.org for current schedules. Depending on the content, format and specific rules of your state’s Board of Accountancy, these events may qualify for CPE credit. PKF North America is a NASBA Certified CPE provider for webinars. To receive your CPE certificate in a timely manner, each participant needs to register online prior to the webinar. After the webinar has taken place each participant will need to complete and submit the CPE attendance form. Full submission details can be found on the form.
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GROWTH
▶ COMMUNITIES OF PRACTICE ▶ MARKETING RESOURCES Communities of Practice The majority of PKF North America niche-specific training and education programs are developed and hosted by Communities of Practice (CoPs). Events sponsored by a community of practice are open enrollment events that all interested members are welcomed to attend. These programs highlight the latest industry specific training, and leverage the expertise and knowledge of PKF North America firms who are leaders in their fields. The communities provide more opportunities for members to become engaged in association activities. Each CoP is member-driven and led by a champion(s) with experience and knowledge in a specific area. The mature communities may be led by a steering group. Communities may have multiple members from a firm – they are not limited to partners only. The association staff provides administrative support (including location and development of resources) as needed. Initiatives for CoPs are funded by participants and billed equal-share. Each community determines what they would like to accomplish, including the format for their activities (e.g., stand alone meetings, conference calls, webinars, designing specialized staff training programs, etc.). Participants may choose to join as many Communities of Practice as they want, how involved they want to be and which activities/initiatives they want to be involved in. A listing of the available communities is on the following pages. The development and expansion of more focus industries depends on the interest of our members. For information about Communities of Practice members, resources and events, visit www.pkfna.org.
2015 Communities of Practice Events
Program Duration
Level of Knowledge
Date/ Location
Canadian Agribusiness Fly-In
1 day
Intermediate
January 24 Las Vegas, NV
Construction Contractors Fly-In
½ day
Intermediate
December 2015
Employee Benefit Plans Roundtable (with AICPA)
½ day
Intermediate
May 2015 Nat’l Harbor, MD
Family Business Advisor Certification
2 days
5-7 years experience
August 3 - 4 Atlanta, GA
Financial Institutions Fly-In
1 ½ days
Intermediate
July 30 - 31 Charleston, SC
Firm Administrators Roundtable
½ day
Intermediate
June 7 - 10 Orlando, FL
Fraud & Forensics Fly-In
1 ½ days
Intermediate
October 19 - 20 Grapevine, TX
Healthcare Fly-In
½ day
Intermediate
TBD
Not for Profit Roundtable
1 day
Intermediate
August 24 Chicago, IL
R&E Tax Credits Fly-In
1 day
Intermediate
August 2015
PKF NA - Mexico Business Forum Hosted by the International Business Development and International Tax CoP
1 day
Intermediate
TBD
Wealth Management Fly-In
2 days
Intermediate
January 2016
Women in Accounting Fly-In
1 ½ days
Intermediate
July 23 - 24 Dallas, TX
THE STANDARD FOCUS OF EACH CoP IS TO: • Share best practices • Share (or develop) marketing and technical resources • Gain knowledge, enhance skills, increase expertise and connect to a broader base of professionals in a specific area • Help others grow their niche practices • Identify known experts in the field • Collaborate with fellow PKF North America members to win proposals and engagements • Earn CPE
Marketing The BD/Marketing Conferences and monthly Webinar series are both designed to help practice growth professionals stay up-todate on the latest trends and practices in the industry. The yearly conference offers a more in-depth discussion of timely topics and best practices sharing, while the webinar series helps participants stay current on various subjects throughout the year.
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Construction Industry Technician Training (Level 1) *This program is available for firm hosted delivery. Contact PKF North America if your firm would like to host this module. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION An eight-week self-study curriculum, combining textbook knowledge with practical application principles. Learn the construction industry while gaining better understanding of clients’ businesses, jobs and challenges. The course concludes with a 1 ½ day review course and successfully passing the exam is required to earn the Construction Industry Technician certification. TARGET AUDIENCE Partners, managers and staff new to working with construction industry clients LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Identify types of construction • Identify construction trade associations • Define forms of business ownership • Create contractual relationships and contract agreements • Create construction contract documents • Discuss construction insurance and bonding Program Duration Eight-week self-study, 1 ½ days review course and exam
Firm Administrators Roundtable PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Firm Administrator Roundtable is designed as an open forum to discuss topics of interest and share best practices related to firm administration with association members. It is typically held in conjunction with the Association of Accounting Administration Practice Management annual conference, depending on attendance and member demand. TARGET AUDIENCE Firm administrators LEARNING OBJECTIVES The learning objectives will be established by the attendees of the roundtable and will be responsive to the latest trends and hot topics surrounding accounting firm administration. Program Duration ½ day Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Intermediate
Prerequisite None
Delivery Method Group live: facilitated roundtable discussions and/or PKF North America networking dinner
Level of Knowledge Basic
Advance Preparation None
Delivery Method Group live: self-study, instructor-led review course, certification examination
Estimated CPE TBD based on meeting agenda
Advance Preparation Eight-week self-study program using Construction Industry Technician textbook; completion of study questions at end of each chapter
Date and Location Held in conjunction with AAA conference June 7 - 10, 2015 Orlando, Florida
Estimated CPE Specialized Knowledge and Application - 8 ½ hours Fees Attendees equally share the actual costs; average including textbook and excluding travel: $600 USD Contact PKF North America with questions or for additional information, 770.279.4560.
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Fees Equal-share estimate: $175 USD
Family Business Advisor Certification PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Hosted by the Family Business Consulting Community of Practice. The purpose of this two-day training is to provide the tools needed to serve the largest business sector in the world – the Family Business. In addition to presenting a web-based assessment tool, which addresses the client and consultant requests, discussion of four key areas of family business consulting will include: • • • •
Family business foundations: family, business and individual systems The advisor: roles and skills Family dynamics and governance: tools for understanding and managing conflict and communication Collaboration: methodologies and building your practice
Successfully passing the assessment is required to receive the Family Business Advisor Certification. TARGET AUDIENCE Partners, senior managers and managers LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Understand the techniques to build trust with client companies • Experience an increased understanding of the impact of family dynamics and family systems on organizational change • Report a variety of tactics to improve communication between family members, owners, leaders and professional advisors • Understand key methods to develop and maintain momentum in organizational change and transition • Understand the various roles that the advisors play and when they could be employed • Confidently employ a number of tools to enhance family governance • Understand the role of conflict in the business dynamic and ways to minimize its negative impact • Learn how to identify areas where outside professional expertise is needed. (e.g. estate planning) • Understand how to use the Galliard Family Business Advisor assessment and supporting materials in servicing clients • Understand and commit to the use of the materials and tools, including the assessment tool in the spirit of true partnership with Galliard
Program Duration 2 day session and exam Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge 5 - 7 years experience Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led session and certification examination Advance Preparation Package includes mostly reading Estimated CPE Business Management & Organization - 14 hours Date and Location August 3 - 4, 2015 Atlanta, Georgia Fees Attendees equally share the actual costs; average including meeting materials and excluding travel: $2,100 USD
AGENDA • The Galliard Way • Lifecycles of the Family Owned and Closely Held Business • Advisor Skills for Managing Relationships • Introduction to Family Business Assessment Tool • Case Study: Harris Garden Communication • Advisor Skills for Improving Communication • Family Business • Family Business Governance • Individual Success Plan PKF North America teams with the Galliard Family Business Institute for this program. Lisë Stewart, founder of the Galliard Group, facilitates the session.
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Program Duration 2 day session and exam Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge 5 - 7 years experience
TransitionStrong™ Certification PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Hosted by the Family Business Consulting Community of Practice, the purpose of this two-day training is to provide the tools needed to serve the largest business sector in the world – the Family Business. In addition to presenting a web-based assessment tool, which addresses the client and consultant requests, discussion on three key areas of family business consulting will include:
Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led session and certification examination
• Building client relationships • Transition strategy planning • Advancing conversations and implementing the plan
Advance Preparation Package includes mostly reading
Successfully passing the assessment is required to receive the TransitionStrong Certification.
Estimated CPE Business Management & Organization - 14 hours Date and Location TBD Fees Equal-share
TARGET AUDIENCE Partners, senior managers and mangers LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Understand how to use the assessment tools • Identify the basic areas of planning for this client segment • Increase your confidence in discussing transition strategies • Enhance your ability to develop a plan to help the business • Obtain access to multiple tools for planning and managing the family business relationship • Learn how to identify areas where outside professional expertise is needed (e.g. estate planning) • Understand how to use the Galliard website and supporting materials to servicing clients • Understand and commit to the use of the materials and tools including the assessment tool in the spirit of true partnership with Galliard AGENDA
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
TransitionStrong Model Typical Family Business Engagement Introduction to Family Business Assessment Tool Family Business Case Study The Transition Opportunity TransitionStrong Case Study Strong Personal Future Strong Financial Position Strong Business Strong Family Family Dynamics Family Governance Family Legacy Recommended Resources Individual Success Plan
PKF North America teams with the Galliard Family Business Institute for this program. Lisë Stewart, founder of the Galliard Group, facilitates the session.
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Resources All of the Communities of Practice are supported at a basic level with easyto-access resources. These resources include: • Granting access to integrated tools to support the firm’s marketing initiatives • Strengthening the firm’s reputation and recognition • Providing an easy-to-implement marketing strategy to help staff, seniors and partners develop referral networks • Helping staff, managers and partners enhance service to clients Each community of practice holds regular conference calls to set the stage and generate next-step plans. There is no charge for members to join a conference call hosted by any of the Communities of Practice. See below for a listing of all the communities: Communities Business Valuation/Litigation Services
International Tax
Construction Contractors
Manufacturing & Distribution
Corporate Finance
Not for Profit
Dealerships
Oil & Gas/Natural Resources
Dental Services
Public Companies
Employee Benefit Plans
R&E Tax Credits
Family Business Consulting
Real Estate Development
Financial Institutions
Risk Advisory Services
Fraud & Forensics
SALT
Governmental/Public Sector
Sports & Entertainment
Healthcare
Tax Strategies
High-Tech/Biotech
Transfer Pricing
Hospitality
US Agribusiness
Insurance
Wealth Management
International Business Development Canadian Specific Agribusiness
NPO (Nonprofit Organizations)
Business Valuation
GST/HST
Functional Communities Business Development
Recruiting
Firm Administrators
Technology
Human Resources
Women in Accounting
Marketing
Young Professionals
Additional Content PKF North America may develop additional niche-specific resources. These resources are produced on an equal-share basis and require minimum member participation.
Conference Calls/Webinars Communities of Practice identify key topics of interest to PKF North America members and organize conference calls/webinars focusing on selected topics. Industry specialists are often guest speakers along with member facilitators. Email Lists And Discussion Forums Practice specific email lists, discussion forums and communities are maintained by PKF North America to facilitate communication and networking among members as well as between member firms and association staff. Visit KnowledgeConnect at www.pkfna.org and select the communities you wish to join. Members can ask questions to seek assistance from one another. Responses are archived and searchable, allowing access to answers at any time. To send an email or to post to a discussion forum, go to www. pkfna.org, click on KnowledgeConnect and select Discuss. Newsletter Articles Library Articles are available for purchase from www.pkfna.org. Articles can be used on websites, newsletters, email communications, local publications and/or in marketing initiatives. These articles provide clients, prospects and contacts with helpful information about topics of interest and is a great way to build client and referral relationships. Position yourself as an authority and keep your name and your firm name top-of-mind in your market. Niche Alliances • First Research® industry profiles • Sageworks® ProfitCents® financial analysis tool Niche-Related CPE Programs Programs are scheduled during the year providing targeted CPE credit and networking opportunities for members. Programs are often in conjunction with other national programs such as AICPA conferences and industry specific events. Presentations & Resources PKF North America has a wide selection of PowerPoint presentations, proposal templates, articles, reports and other resources contributed by members. Files are stored on the member website and may be adapted for your use. If there is a tool you have found to be successful, you are encouraged to share with other members. Submit documents, presentations, marketing materials and other tools to the website manager at sbartman@pkfna.org or upload them in the Publish a Document section of KnowledgeConnect.
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BUSINESS VALUATION/LITIGATION SUPPORT Valuation Report* Reports on current business valuation trends and strategies. An advisory board made up of members and industry experts ensures that content is accurate, of interest and well-written. Attorney’s Report* Reports on the current and future needs of attorneys. The BV/Litigation Support Steering Group ensures content is timely, well-written and distinctive. FAMILY BUSINESS CONSULTING Business Owner’s Perspectives* Reports on the trends and strategies of interest along with offering guidance to business owners of family and closely held businesses. Family Business Fly-In A powerful program designed to enhance skills as a trusted adviser to family-owned businesses. Learn how to identify and solve problems common to family businesses, develop skills as a family business adviser/ consultant and discover best practices. CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTORS Dimensions* Focuses on strategies and information for construction company owners and executives. Members of the Construction Steering Group ensure content is timely, wellwritten and distinctive. Construction Industry Technician Training (Level 1) Provided by PKF North America through a partnership with Clemson University’s Department of Construction Science and Management. The curriculum provides specialized training
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related to the construction industry; teaching members to read a blueprint, understand zoning regulations, and abide by OSHA rulings, as well as other skills that increase knowledge of and improve service to construction contractor clients. Certification is backed by the National Association of Women in Construction and National Education Foundation.
HEALTHCARE SERVICES
Construction Fly-In Held annually in conjunction with AICPA construction conference or other industry event. The Construction Fly-In offers an opportunity to network with peers also working with construction clients.
and distinctive.
Construction Niche Development Resources Numerous resources such as ghostwritten articles, additional newsletter content and whitepapers have been developed in this industry area and are available to members on an á la carte basis. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS Benefits in Brief* (content only) Reports on the current trends and strategies in the Employee Benefit Plans sector. Ghostwritten articles are available on an á la carte basis. Examples include: • Have you Given your Plan a Check-up Lately? • Best Practices for Plan Sponsors – Communications to Educate and Maximize Participation
Practice Strategies* Includes topics of interest to physicians and managers within physician practices. Members of the Healthcare Steering Group ensure content is timely, well-written
MANUFACTURING AND DISTRIBUTION Manufacturing & Distribution* Reports on the current trends and strategies in the manufacturing and distribution market sectors.
Manufacturing & Distribution Niche Development Resources Ghostwritten articles, additional newsletter content and whitepapers have been developed and are available to members on an á la carte basis. NOT-FOR-PROFIT Nonprofit Insights A Newsletter for Nonprof it Decision Makers
Spring 2011
Lobbying and the Law
Debunking the Great Misconception
I
t’s one of the great misconceptions of the nonprofit world: the belief that 501(c)(3)s may not lobby. Just as erroneous, others think that political action is somehow an inappropriate activity for public charities … that it’s unseemly or it provides “soft” returns in a world that desperately needs tangible services. Truth is, a charity that doesn’t spend at least some of its time in advocacy work — whether that’s pushing for more art in the classrooms or advocating for the mentally ill — is probably not doing its job.
Legitimate, Encouraged and Protected The U.S. Congress has unequivocally held that “influencing legislation” is an appropriate and legitimate activity for charitable organizations. Legislators went so far as to establish specific dollar limits to guide public charities on what they may spend to influence legislation. Within these limits, nonprofits will not incur penalties or risk losing their tax-exempt status. However, 501(c)(3) public charities are strictly prohibited from engaging in partisan political activities (i.e., supporting or opposing any candidate for public office). This includes making any direct endorsements or contributions, as well as using resources to support or oppose a particular candidate or party.
Lobbying Defined Under federal tax law, lobbying is a specifically defined activity and includes: • Having a conversation with a legislator. • Educating policymakers and the public about broad social issues. • Encouraging people to register to vote. • Organizing communities. • Educating voters about candidate positions, litigation and many other activities. Lobbying is further broken down into two distinct subsets:
Grassroots lobbying – This involves an attempt to influence specific legislation by encouraging the public (other than the organization’s members) to contact legislators about that legislation. It must refer to specific legislation, reflect a view on it and encourage the recipient to take lobbying action on it (e.g., asking recipients to contact their legislators, providing contact information for the legislators, providing a tearoff postcard or petition, etc.).
How It’s Measured Public charities that wish to lobby must choose one of two standards by which their compliance with the Internal Revenue Code is measured: Continued on page 3
Nonprofit Insights* Features topics important to nonprofit board members and executives in not-for-profits.
Direct lobbying – Generally, direct lobbying involves communicating to either a legislator, an employee of a legislative body, or any other government employee who may participate in the formation of the legislation. The communication must refer to a specific piece of legislation and express a view on it.
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Is There Tax on That Brownie?
3
How to Tell if It’s Lobbying
4
PayPal = Easy Donations
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Financial Lending Notes* Reports on the current and future needs of commercial lenders. An editorial board of three banking professionals, members of the Business Development/Marketing Committee and association experts ensure content is timely, well-written and distinctive. Financial Institutions Fly-In The Financial Institutions Fly-In is an opportunity to network with other practitioners who specialize in audit and accounting for financial institutions. The highlight of the program is a panel of regulators. Participants have the opportunity to question each regulator on areas related to examinations and regulations in each organization.
*Each newsletter is published quarterly and can showcase the firm’s expertise in creative financial planning, strategic planning and profit enhancement. With a subscription to the newsletters, member firms receive a full-color print option and access to PKF North America Newslink and content only versions.
BD/Marketing Conference
Business Development and Marketing Webinar Series
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION This conference is the premier learning and networking event for PKF North America’s practice growth professionals. Unlike other conferences, PKF North America’s BD/Marketing Conference offers an in-depth session that requires more than an hour of discussion and exploration. Past topics include developing a growth culture at a firm and the true selection criteria for clients when choosing their professional services firms. More importantly, attendees will be able to network and share best practices in a non-competitive collegial environment.
The PKF North America Business Development/Marketing Committee sponsors monthly webinars to discuss various topics. The webinars are held the second Tuesday of every month at 3 p.m. Eastern time (except for June and October). The specific details of each program will be announced at least 30 days prior to the event via email.
TARGET AUDIENCE Business development/marketing staff, partners, managers and other staff with practice growth responsibilities LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Expand practice growth activities by collaborating, sharing and learning from other dedicated business development and marketing professionals • Improve the effectiveness of marketing campaigns by learning from the best and brightest in the industry • Create and broaden your network of like-minded colleagues
The estimated cost of a webinar is $89 per connection, not per registered participant. Recordings of all webinars will also be available for a nominal fee. Refer to the Events Calendar on the member website at www.pkfna.org for current schedules. Depending on the content, format and specific rules of your state’s Board of Accountancy, these events may qualify for CPE credit. PKF North America is a NASBA Certified CPE provider for webinars. To receive your CPE certificate in a timely manner, each participant needs to register online prior to the webinar. After the webinar has taken place each participant will need to complete and submit the CPE attendance form. Full submission details can be found on the form.
Program Duration 1 ½ - 2 days Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Intermediate Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, panel presentations and group discussions Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE Marketing - approximately 11 hours Date and Location October 26 - 27, 2015 Denver, Colorado Fees Equal-share estimate: $780 USD
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Program Duration Multi-session Prerequisite Varies Level of Knowledge Basic through Advanced **Intermediate/Advanced Delivery Method Webinars Advance Preparation Varies Estimated CPE Varies based on actual program participation Dates and Locations Virtual webinars: April - December Each module of the program is offered a minimum of two times during the 12-month period to accommodate varying schedules and new hires. Fees $160 USD per participant for the 12-month program within a specified level
Career-Spanning Virtual Business Development Training PROGRAM DESCRIPTION A unique webinar-based program administered through The Whetstone Group’s Growth Academy. Whether participating as a first year staff member or experienced partner, this series of interactive webinars will help improve contributions to business development. Utilizing these concepts and strategies will enable you to establish a common marketing and sales approach. You will receive a combination of practical, just-in-time trainings that can be implemented throughout your career, helping you further understand your role in firm growth. TARGET AUDIENCE All professionals based on career points of new staff, senior staff, managers, owners and experienced owners LEARNING OBJECTIVES Specific program/module learning objectives vary by program and will be described in the official program announcement. Program modules include: • New Staff - 101: Basic Business Development Concepts and Your Role (1 hour) • New Staff - 102: Client Service Communication Skills (1 hour) • New Staff - 103/203: Basic Social Media Usage (1 hour) • Senior Staff - 201 A&B: Basic Client Marketing (2 hours) • Senior Staff - 202: Working Events (1 hour) • Senior Staff - 203/103: Basic Social Media Usage (1 hour) • Managers/Senior Managers - 301 A&B: Client Cross-Selling (2 ½ hours) • Managers/Senior Managers - 302: Generating Effective Referrals (1 hour) • Managers/Senior Managers - 303: Personal Marketing Methods and Skills (1 hour) • Managers/Senior Managers - 304/404: Using Social Media for BD** (1 hour) • Managers/Senior Managers - 305/405: Specializing and Focusing Your BD Efforts** (1 hour) • Partners - 401 A&B: Prospecting and Closing New Business (3 hours) • Partners - 402 A&B: Mastering the Proposal Process (2 hours) • Partners - 403 A&B: Determining Goals and ROI for Your Book of Business (2 hours) • Partners - 404/304: Using Social Media for BD** (1 hour) • Partners - 305/405: Specializing and Focusing Your BD Efforts (1 hour) • Leadership - 501 A&B: Managing Growth and Accountability (3 hours) • Leadership - 502: Managing Online Marketing and Social Media for Your Firm (1 hour) PACE TOTAL PERFORMANCE FRAMEWORK ELEMENTS Competencies • Communication • Influence • Initiative • Relationship Building • Results Orientation
Contributions • Business Development
* These programs are available for firm hosted delivery. If your firm would like to host these modules, contact PKF North America 770.279.4560. The Whetstone Group, Inc. specializes in helping CPA firms grow and build their business through effective growth planning and marketing. They assist firms with analyzing their marketplace, developing a growth plan, building their business development skills, generating new business leads and utilizing proven tools and strategies to hone their competitive edge. The firm possesses a unique blend of marketing knowledge and industry experience. For more information, visit www.thewhetstonegroup.com.
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PKF North America Caribbean Business Development Workshop
Social Media for Business/Accounting Social Media Fundamentals
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The program is designed to develop the next generation of business developers, to facilitate the legacy of participating PKF Caribbean firms, and to better recruit and retain quality professionals.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Social media can be an unpleasant concept for many firms – from understanding its purpose, to managing its implementation and mitigating the associated risks. This workshop covers the fundamentals of strategy, tactics and writing for specific channels and platforms. In addition, we’ll discuss sensitive issues such as online reputation management and growing legal concerns and precedents.
TARGET AUDIENCE Partners and managers LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Improve both individual and team performance of newer partners, managers and senior staff by creating a common framework, process and vocabulary • Provide practical skills and “how-to’s” so professionals better understand how to increase both the number of opportunities they generate and their effectiveness in pursuing them • Create a foundation for participating firms to lead the creation of a sustainable business development culture Program Duration 2 days Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Intermediate Delivery Method Group live Advance Preparation Conference call and background questionnaire Estimated CPE Personal Development - 16 hours Date and Location June 3 - 5, 2015 Georgetown, Guyana Fees Attendees equally share the actual costs; average meeting excluding travel: $1,570 USD
TARGET AUDIENCE Management through staff; those involved with social media (direction and/or implementation) LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Gain an overview of critical concepts necessary for the effective implementation of social media campaigns • Understand social media best practices and objectives • Design a comprehensive social media strategy that leverages the firm’s current marketing and web strategy • Create an effective social media presence • Evaluate a campaign’s impact; update/adjust appropriately • Review, explore and evaluate popular tools and techniques • Recognize differences in developing content for social media versus traditional media • Determine how to approach online reputation management • Analyze current issues and precedents in social media • Evaluate the legal implications of using social media; decide on an effective approach • Apply/interpret the firm’s policies to minimize any identifiable and unforeseen liabilities Program Duration TBD Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Basic Delivery Method Group live Advance Preparation • Provide instructor current social media policy and data privacy policy • Provide instructor social media and/or marketing strategy • Knowledge of your firm’s existing social media activity Estimated CPE TBD * This program is available for firm hosted delivery. If your firm would like to host this module, contact PKF North America 770.279.4560.
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FIRM MANAGEMENT
â–ś INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY â–ś OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT Information Technology Firm technologists bring a unique set of skills to the firm. As with any technical discipline, when dealing with critical issues there is a need for support from outside the firm. The ability to access their peers throughout PKF North America member firms provides that support. The primary programs for PKF North America firm technologists are the annual Technology Fly-In and Roundtable and the monthly Firm Technologists Webinar/Conference Call Series. Both are intended to be forums for information services professionals to get the most up-to-date IT knowledge and to discuss current technology issues with their peers at other PKF North America firms. The Webinar/Conference Call series is designed to bring PKF North America firm technologists together in a monthly forum where they can stay current on the latest information about software, hardware, security and IT processes. It also provides an opportunity for them to interact and learn from IT professionals at other member firms who are facing the same issues and challenges while preparing for an ever-changing technology landscape. Webinars begin with a presentation or discussion by a speaker, vendor or a fellow member on a hot product or topic and then continue on with questions or discussion ideas suggested by participants. Conference Calls are general roundtable discussions on current topics selected by the participants.
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The day and a half Technology Fly-In and Roundtable features presentations by industry experts on the technology issues that are most relevant to managing technology in an accounting firm. While covering both mainstream and cutting edge technologies, the Fly-In also highlights the unique challenges of information technology for CPA firms. The popular roundtable session provides an ideal venue for members to connect with firm technologists at other member firms; learning best practices and getting ideas to help solve real-world problems. The Technology Fly-In and Roundtable is a unique chance to hear from industry specialists while building valuable relationships. Additional webinars featuring specific software product updates or the latest information on timely topics are also offered throughout the year.
Operations Management Many of the offerings throughout this catalog include best practices directed at helping firms enhance their management of client service delivery. In addition, PKF North America provides roundtables, flyins, conferences and targeted working groups specifically designed to help those responsible for overall firm management identify ways to move their firm into the future. Elements of each event include networking, best practice sharing, and hearing from members and respected industry experts on vital issues.
Firm Technologists Conference Call/ Webinar Series PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Firm Technologists conference call/webinar series is designed exclusively for PKF North America member firm technologists as a monthly forum where information services professionals discuss current technology issues with their peers at other member firms. Most events begin with a presentation or discussion by a speaker or a member on a hot topic, then continue on with discussion topics and questions suggested by participants. Some are general roundtable discussions between participants. The calls/webinars are intended for those responsible for or working in information services or technology at their firm. PKF North America distributes a webinar newsletter once a month to streamline the number of emails you receive from us and to increase awareness of the virtual learning opportunities we offer. The newsletter is distributed only to appropriate mailing lists based on the upcoming virtual events. The estimated cost of a webinar varies from $65 per connection, not per registered participant. Recordings of some webinars will be available for a nominal fee.
Technology Fly-In and Roundtable PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Technology Fly-In and Roundtable features speakers with timely and relevant knowledge about the application of technology within the field of public accounting. The event also incorporates roundtable sessions to discuss emerging technology issues. TARGET AUDIENCE Partners and/or staff responsible for internal firm technology LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Describe best practices in the effective application of technology in a public accounting firm • Identify methods and techniques used by other public accounting firms • Describe the issues created by the implementation of the latest technology offerings • Develop a strategy to introduce new technology into your firm Program Duration 1 ½ days
Refer to the Events Calendar on the member website at www.pkfna.org for current schedules.
Prerequisite None
Depending on the content, format and specific rules of your state’s Board of Accountancy, these events may qualify for CPE credit.
Level of Knowledge Intermediate
PKF North America is a NASBA Certified CPE provider for webinars. To receive your CPE certificate in a timely manner, each participant needs to register online prior to the webinar. After the webinar has taken place each participant will need to complete and submit the CPE attendance form. Full submission details can be found on the form.
Delivery Method Group- live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups and roundtable discussions Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE TBD based on meeting agenda Date and Location September 17 - 18, 2015 Rosemont, Illinois Fees Equal-share estimate: $650 USD
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Advanced Firm Management Workshop
Canadian Firm Management Roundtables
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Advanced Firm Management Workshop is designed to provide attendees with a forum to discuss firm management issues. Typically there is a nonmember presenter that starts the program with a history and development of their firm, followed by questions and answers.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Canadian Firm Management Roundtable is designed to allow Canadian firm leaders to discuss firm management issues and topics specific to Canada.
TARGET AUDIENCE Managing partners and/or senior partners of firms of all sizes LEARNING OBJECTIVES This program is responsive to the latest trends in the profession. The specific learning objectives will be communicated in the formal event announcement approximately 60 days in advance of the program. Program Duration 1 day Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group live: facilitated roundtable discussion Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE TBD based on meeting agenda and location Date September 2, 2015 Chicago, Illinois Fees Equal-share estimate: $500 USD
TARGET AUDIENCE Canadian managing partners LEARNING OBJECTIVES This program is responsive to the issues facing leaders of the profession. The learning objectives will be communicated in the formal event announcement approximately 60 days in advance of the program. Roundtable topics are submitted by attendees and discussed in a peer directed format. Program Duration 1 day Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group live: roundtable discussion Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE TBD based on meeting agenda Date and Location October 4, 2015 Vancouver, British Columbia CANADA January 2016 Las Vegas, Nevada Fees Equal-share estimate: $500 USD
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Canadian Partners’ Conference
Executive Working Groups
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Canadian Partners’ Conference incorporates speakers presenting topics of general interest to partners and roundtable discussions. Member firm partners from across Canada gather annually for this educational and networking event. The focus of the conference is to provide top level content, education and best practice sharing opportunities.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Executive Working Groups are facilitated small group meetings that include confidential discussions, real-life challenges and accountability. Each participant will have a chance to share their most important business issues with the group. Feedback from the other participants will be solicited and participants will be held accountable to report back on their progress. These small groups are composed of trustworthy peers with whom high-level worrisome issues can be discussed in a safe environment.
TARGET AUDIENCE Partners from Canadian member firms although all PKF North America members are welcome LEARNING OBJECTIVES This program is responsive to the latest trends in the profession, the specific learning objectives will be communicated in the formal event announcement approximately 60 days in advance of the program. Program Duration 2 days Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, discussion groups Advance Preparation None Date and Location October 4 - 6, 2015 Vancouver, British Columbia CANADA Fees Equal-share estimate: $950 USD
TARGET AUDIENCE The Executive Working Groups are by invitation only and designed specifically for senior leaders who have completed LP6: Program for Strategic Firm Leadership. LEARNING OBJECTIVES N/A Program Duration 1 ½ days Prerequisite Application Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group live: facilitated sessions with participant presentations Advance Preparation Various Estimated CPE Personal Development - 15 hours per session Dates and Locations SPRING May 16 - 17, 2015 San Diego, California FALL November 14 - 15, 2015 Charleston, South Carolina Fees N/A
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Firm Management Conference
Large Firm Work Group
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Firm Management Conference is designed to provide attendees with strategic firm management practices that they can implement at their firms to improve efficiency and profitability. The Spring Members’ Meeting is included as part of this program.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Facilitated small group meetings that include confidential discussions with sharing real-life challenges with others. The session is facilitated and guided by one of the participants. It’s a place to test ideas and look at the big picture. Participants provide discussion topics in advance.
TARGET AUDIENCE Managing partners and executive committee members
TARGET AUDIENCE Large firm managing partners, CEOs and COOs
LEARNING OBJECTIVES This program is responsive to the latest trends in the profession. The specific learning objectives will be communicated in the formal event announcement approximately 60 days in advance of the program. The conference offers managing partners the opportunity to network and share with their peers in the association. Sessions are typically led by nationally known consultants, and roundtables offer discussion on current topics. An annual highlight is a review of the Financial Survey results.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Evaluate firm management issues and develop strategies for success • Member-to-Member sharing of best practices to increase your firm’s profitability and efficiency • Identify innovative ways to expand your firms specializations, efficiencies and business trends
Program Duration 2 ½ days Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions and discussion groups Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE TBD based on meeting agenda Date and Location May 17 - 20, 2015 San Diego, California Fees Average: $2,350 USD
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Program Duration 1 day Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group-live: facilitated session and discussion Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE Business Management & Organization - 7 ½ hours Date and Location July 9, 2015 Chicago, Illinois January 2016 Chicago, Illinois Fees Average: $575 USD
Mid-Tier Work Group PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Facilitated small group meetings that include confidential discussions with sharing real-life challenges with others. The session is facilitated and guided by one of the participants. It’s a place to test ideas and look at the big picture. Participants provide discussion topics in advance. TARGET AUDIENCE Mid-tier firm managing partners, CEOs and COOs LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Evaluate firm management issues and develop strategies for success • Member-to-member sharing of best practices to increase your firm’s profitability and efficiency • Identify innovative ways to expand your firms specializations, efficiencies and business trends Program Duration 1 day Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group-live: facilitated session and discussion Advance Preparation None Estimated CPE Business Management & Organization - 7 ½ hours
PKF North America Summit Firm Management Track PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Firm Management track at the Summit is designed to update attendees on the latest trends and practices affecting the public accounting profession. The Fall Members’ Meeting agenda is a part of this program and includes election of the board members and other association business items. This track will offer the opportunity to network and share with other managing partners. The Firm Management track is held in conjunction with A&A and Tax technical tracks which allow attendees the opportunity to experience additional technical updates. TARGET AUDIENCE Managing partners and executive committee members LEARNING OBJECTIVES This program is responsive to the latest trends in the profession. The specific learning objectives will be communicated in the formal event announcement approximately 60 days in advance of the program. Program Duration 1 ½ day Prerequisite None Level of Knowledge Advanced Delivery Method Group live: instructor-led sessions, panel presentations and discussion groups Advance Preparation None
Date and Location July 15, 2015 Chicago, Illinois
Estimated CPE TBD based on meeting agenda
January 2016 Chicago, Illinois
Date and Location November 15 -18, 2015 Charleston, South Carolina
Fees Average: $575 USD
Fees Average: $1,550 USD
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CPA Exam PKF North America partners with the following companies to offer flexible learning formats for CPA exam candidates at a discounted rate.
CPE Virtual Learning We have developed partnerships with leading providers of CPE and training to help members obtain quality instruction at a reasonable price.
BECKER CPA REVIEW
BECKER CPE
Three flexible learning formats for exam candidates include: live, online and self-study CD formats. PKF North America member firms benefit from this relationship by direct bill and preferred provider. Reference www.pkfna.org for more information regarding pricing options. Information is found in the CPE section under CPA Exam Prep.
Member firms receive significant discounts on Becker’s CPE courses which are web-based and delivered via a dedicated portal used by firms to both enroll and track staff’s CPE progress. Becker CPE courses are offered via E Learning and Webcast formats. All Becker E Learning & Webcast courses are NASBA and QAS approved and instructor driven.
EXAMMATRIX™
Becker offers courses to member firms by: • Direct Bill Subscription - $150 per staff person enrolled, entitles staff access to all Becker E Learning and Webcast programs for one year • Block purchase of hours - 250 hours/$15 per credit hour; 500 hours/$12 per credit hour; 1000+ hours/$10 per credit hour
Members spend less than $700 on the ExamMatrix CPA, CIA & CISA Exam Review courses. The ExamMatrix Adaptive Learning exam review software ensures every study session is tailor-made to your personalized study needs and optimizing your valuable time. Their powerful software continually evaluates your unique strengths and weaknesses in each subject area, focusing your studying on subject areas of difficulty. Demo: http://www.ExamMatrix.com/Demo Order: http://www.ExamMatrix.com/PKF
Becker has developed courses in several areas to meet the needs of the accounting profession. Those areas include yellow compatible courses, independence courses to meet PCAOB requirements, leadership training and more. Visit Becker: http://www.becker.com.
GLEIM®
CCH LEARNING CENTER
Since 1974, Gleim has helped millions of accounting candidates pass their certification exams. The easy-to-follow three-step study approach ensures candidates not only pass their exams on the first try, but they will be better able to retain the information in their long-term memory for use throughout their careers.
Membership benefit of more than 150 interactive web-based CPE courses for one low annual fee of $329 per learning center “seat.” New courses and topics are added regularly. Visit CCH: http:// cchgroup.com/members/pkfna.
All Gleim Review Systems, Give You Access Until You Pass™: CMA Review • Largest test bank • Supplemental videos • Easy to follow 3-step study approach CIA Review • Most widely used CIA exam prep • Huge test bank • Unlimited practice exams EA Review • NAEA preferred EA Review provider • Most unique practice questions available • Affordable and effective
CPE Policy
MDS CPA REVIEW CPA Candidates can choose to study in a 100 percent live classroom with experienced coaches in Columbus, Ohio or self-study by accessing the high-quality classroom videos and homework software online. Either way, students are coached intensively through the program. MDS stands behind their course by providing free repeat privileges upon completion. Further details are posted on KnowledgeConnect.
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Participants are responsible for compliance with all applicable continuing professional education requirements, rules and regulations of state licensing bodies, other governmental entities, membership networks and other organizations or bodies. Participants should check with each appropriate entity to which they report CPE hours to determine specific requirements or any exceptions to the standards presented herein. PKF North America is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy as a sponsor of continuing professional education. For those members who reside in states that do not recognize the NASBA standards, we are licensed directly with those states where required. Otherwise, we have thoroughly reviewed each state’s standards and ensure we meet the standards set forth by those boards. Associated Regional Accounting Firms (doing business as PKF North America) is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be addressed to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through: www.learningmarket.org. National Registry of CPE Sponsors Number: 104091.
Appendix A: Professional Development Plan The Professional Development Plan is an illustration of the traditional core technical and personal excellence training programs.
GENERAL / ALL GENERAL / ALL GENERAL / ALL
SPECIFIC
GENERAL / ALL
SPECIFIC
SPECIFIC
GENERAL / ALL GENERAL / ALL
MANAGING PARTNER
LP6: PROGRAM FOR STRATEGIC FIRM LEADERSHIP GENERAL / ALL
CANADIAN STANDARDS TAX AND INTEREST COMMUNITIES LP5: TAX AND ACCOUNTING GROUP CANADIAN OF PRACTICE PARTNERS’ ACCOUNTING EXPERIENCED AND AUDITING AND NICHE PARTNER AND AUDITING TRACKS AT CONFERENCE FOCUSED FIRM ROUNDTABLES LEADERSHIP THE SUMMIT CANADIAN CURRICULUM MANAGEMENT TAX INTEREST TRACK AT GROUP THE SUMMIT FIRM MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE
GENERAL / ALL
LP4: PROGRAM FOR EMERGING LEADERS
TIMELY WEBINAR SERIES TOPICS
CAREERSPANNING BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TRAINING
GENERAL / ALL LP3: LEADING THROUGH MANAGING GENERAL / ALL LP2: LEADING PEOPLE GENERAL / ALL LP1: LEADING ENGAGEMENTS AUDIT SPECIFIC
ENTRY LEVEL
ASD C: EXPERIENCED IN-CHARGE TRAINING AUDIT SPECIFIC ASD B: BEGINNING IN-CHARGE TRAINING AUDIT SPECIFIC ASD A: EXECUTING AUDIT ENGAGEMENTS
CANADIAN SPECIFIC CANADIAN MANAGER TRAINING MODULE CANADIAN SPECIFIC CSD D: PROJECT MANAGEMENT & SUPERVISION CANADIAN SPECIFIC CSD C: INTRO. TO ENGAGEMENT PLANNING & SUPERVISION CANADIAN SPECIFIC CSD B: EXECUTING ENGAGEMENTS
TAX SPECIFIC TSD C: ADVANCED BUSINESS, INDIVIDUAL, & FIDUCIARY TAXATION TAX SPECIFIC TSD B: COMPREHENSIVE BUSINESS, INDIVIDUAL & FIDUCIARY TAXATION TAX SPECIFIC TSD A: BUSINESS & INTERMEDIATE INDIVIDUAL TAXATION
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Appendix B: Audit and Tax Practitioner Learning Learning Pathways provide a snapshot according to role and/or niche for the suggested progression of learning. Potential learning resources for the pathways are from external vendors, internal Community of Practice programs and existing PKF North America resources. Below are examples of learning pathways that can be created and customized for member firms. PKF North America uses resources gained internally through the PKF North America network and through external learning programs.
Staff • Web-based New Hire
Senior • Audit Staff Development
Manager • Timely Technical Topic
Senior Manager • Timely Technical Topic
Owner • Timely Technical Topic
• Audit Staff Development
• Timely Technical Topic
• Leading Through
• Accounting and Auditing
• Accounting and Auditing
• Leading Engagements • Leading People • Career-Spanning Virtual
• Career-Spanning Virtual
• Career-Spanning Virtual
• Career-Spanning Virtual
• Financial Institutions
• Financial Institutions
• Financial Institutions
Manager • Timely Technical Topic
Senior Manager • Timely Technical Topic
Owner • Timely Technical Topic
• Leading Through
• Tax Roundtables • Career-Spanning Virtual
• Tax Roundtables • Career-Spanning Virtual
• Financial Institutions
• Financial Institutions
Training
Module A & Audit Staff Development Module B • Timely Technical Topic Webinar Series • Career-Spanning Virtual Business Development Training
Module C
Webinar Series
Webinar Series Managing
Business Development Training
Business Development Training
NICHE-SPECIFIC LEARNING
CORE TECHNICAL AND PERSONAL EXCELLENCE LEARNING
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS LEARNING PATHWAY: AUDIT PRACTITIONER
Fly-In
Webinar Series Roundtables
Business Development Training • PKF North America Summit • Program for Emerging Leaders
Fly-In
Webinar Series Roundtables
Business Development Training • PKF North America Summit • Program for Strategic Firm Leadership
Fly-In
Staff • Tax Staff Development • Timely Technical Topic
Webinar Series • Career-Spanning Virtual Business Development Training
Senior • Tax Staff Development • Timely Technical Topic
Webinar Series • Leading Engagements • Leading People • Career-Spanning Virtual Business Development Training
Webinar Series Managing
• Career-Spanning Virtual Business Development Training
• Financial Institutions
NICHE-SPECIFIC LEARNING
CORE TECHNICAL AND PERSONAL EXCELLENCE LEARNING
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS LEARNING PATHWAY: TAX PRACTITIONER
Fly-In
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Webinar Series
Business Development Training • PKF North America Summit • Program for Emerging Leaders
Fly-In
Webinar Series
Business Development Training • PKF North America Summit • Program for Strategic Firm Leadership
Fly-In
x
x
x
People Development
x
Firm Economics
x
Business Development
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Client Service
Developing Self & Others
x
Results Orientation
Teamwork
x
Technical Excellence
x
Influence
x
Conceptual Thinking
Relationship Building
Change Orientation
Communication
Admin. Advanced
Admin. Baseline
Owner
Sr. Manager
Senior
Staff
The curriculum map presents the learning opportunities according to targeted levels and a matrix of the performance and career excellence core competencies and contributions that are addressed by each program.
Manager
Appendix C: Curriculum Map
CONTRIBUTIONS
Strategic Thinking
COMPETENCIES
Initiative
ROLE
PEOPLE Learning & Development
ASD A: Executing Audit Engagements
x
ASD B: Beginning In-Charge Training
x x
x
x
x
x x
CSD C: Introduction to Engagement Planning & Supervision
x
CSD D: Program Management & Supervision
x
x
x
LP1: Leading Engagements
x x
LP2: Leading People
x x
x x
LP3: Leading Through Managing
x x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Canadian Manager Training Module
x
LP4: Program for Emerging Leaders
x
x
x x
x
x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
LP5: Experienced Partner Leadership
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
LP6: Program for Strategic Firm Leadership
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
PKF North America Summit A&A and Tax Tracks TSD A: Business & Intermediate Individual Taxation
x
x
x x
TSD B: Comprehensive Business, Individual & Fiduciary Taxation
Human Resources
x x
x
ASD C: Experienced In-Charge Training CSD B: Executing Engagements
x
TSD C: Advanced Business, Individual, & Fiduciary Taxation
x
x
TSD: LLC and Partnership Tax Boot Camp
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Human Resources Conference Putting People First Webinar Series
x
x
CLIENT SERVICES Expertise Portal
x
x
x
x
Canadian Standards Interest Group Fly-In
x
x
x
x
x
Canadian Tax Interest Group Fly-In
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Accounting & Auditing and Tax Roundtables
Technical Topic Webinar Series
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
GROWTH Communities of Practice
Community of Practice Fly-Ins and Roundtables Construction Industry Technical Training (Level 1) Family Business Adviser Certification
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
TransitionStrong Certification
x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
PKF NA Caribbean Business Development Workshop
x
x
x
x
x
x
Social Media for Business/Accounting Social Media Fundamentals
x
x
x
x
BD/Marketing Conference Business Development and Marketing Webinar Series Career-Spanning Virtual Business Development Training
x
x
Firm Administrators Roundtable
Marketing Resources
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x x
x
x x
x
x
FIRM MANAGEMENT Information Technology Operations Management
Firm Technologists’ Conference Call/Webinar Series Technology Fly-In and Roundtable
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
Advanced Firm Management Workshop
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Canadian Firm Management Roundtable
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Canadian Partners’ Conference
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Executive Working Groups
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Firm Management Conference
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Large Firm Work Group
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Mid-Tier Work Group
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
PKF North America Summit Firm Management Track
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
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Appendix D: Administrative Policies ADVANCE PREPARATION Some courses require advance preparation that may be quite extensive. Evidence of completion of the advance preparation may be required either in advance of the program or on the first day of the event. At the discretion of the instructor, a participant may not be allowed to participate in the event if advance preparation is not complete. Any costs associated with an individual registering for a program and being refused attendance on the grounds of lack of preparation will be borne by the member firm. ATTENDANCE Participants are expected to attend programs in their entirety. This generally includes any group function (e.g., planned group meals). Planned late arrivals or early departures need to be approved in advance by both the participant’s firm and PKF North America. If for any reason participants are absent from any part of a program, CPE credit will be adjusted accordingly. BILLING POLICY FOR MULTI-SESSION PROGRAMS Firms are billed for the number of sessions held in the calendar year for PKF North America courses that include multiple sessions. Each firm is expected to pay in full for all sessions within a calendar year, one month prior to the first session. PROGRAM CANCELLATIONS “No-shows” for any program will forfeit 100 percent of the registration fee. In addition, any hotel cancellation penalties will be charged to the firm. Cancellations received less than seven (7) business days in advance of the program start date will forfeit 50 percent of the registration fee or the direct cost to the association, whichever is greater. Cancellations must be submitted in writing and are not effective until approved. Confirmation will be sent upon approval from PKF North America. For information regarding refund, concerns and/or program cancellation policies, contact PKF North America at 770.279.4560. DINNER CANCELLATIONS If plans change and you are no longer able to attend an equal-share dinner, be sure to cancel at least seven (7) business days in advance to avoid a fee. If you cancel within seven (7) days,
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you will forfeit 50 percent of the dinner fees. “Noshows” for any dinner will forfeit 100 percent of the applicable restaurant cancellation fee. EXCEPTIONS AND SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES Any special circumstances requiring exceptions to these policies or procedures require advance approval by PKF North America. HOTEL SLEEPING ROOMS AND PAYMENT The registration fee for all association sponsored programs does NOT include the cost of sleeping accommodations. HOTEL BASED For the sake of convenience and to ensure members receive the negotiated rates, sleeping rooms will be reserved by PKF North America and will be guaranteed for late arrival. Negotiated rates are for the program dates only and are based on space and rate availability. Participants will be expected to present a credit card upon check-in at the hotel to pay for their room, tax and incidentals. The participant must pay all charges upon checkout. Participants should not contact the hotel to arrange sleeping accommodations; unless the program is a firm hosted event and/or instructed by PKF North America to contact the hotel directly. PKF North America will notify the hotel of sleeping room requirements based on the information supplied by the firm/individual during the registration process. Confirm all hotel accommodations with PKF North America directly. To cancel the hotel reservation, contact PKF North America directly to communicate any changes to the hotel. FIRM HOSTED PKF North America will coordinate with the host firm to provide recommended hotel accommodations. However, participants of a firm hosted program are required to reserve and/or cancel sleeping rooms on their own. INAPPROPRIATE PARTICIPANT BEHAVIOR The association, at the discretion of the instructor or the association representative, may report instances of inappropriate behavior by participants back to their firm.
REGISTRATION Register online by going to the Events Calendar. Registrations are open to eligible participants who are actively employed by sponsoring firms. All employee email addresses must be in the PKF North America database to process a registration request. To add an employee email to the database, follow the instructions on the Database Update Form. We may not be able to accommodate hotel accommodation requests after the published registration deadline. Please REGISTER AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE and well before the deadlines stated for the specific program. Registration for association-sponsored events typically begins approximately 60 days prior to the program start date. The deadline for registration is generally 30 days in advance of the program, as hotels typically require such advance registration to guarantee availability and negotiated rates. Individuals are registered for professional development programs by their local office. The firm is responsible for reviewing the target audience descriptions and registering individuals appropriately. Please contact PKF North America for assistance in determining whether participants have met the necessary prerequisites for any program. Information about program prerequisites is listed in the description of each event. Event fees vary by type of event and will be indicated on the specific program announcement and registration information. Registration questions may be directed to the registrar at registrar@pkfna.org. TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS Travel arrangements are the responsibility of each participant. Please check with PKF North America to confirm the status of a program before purchasing any nonrefundable transportation. While extremely rare, a decision to cancel a program is typically made four weeks prior to the start date of a program, which allows ample time to take advantage of advance purchase airfares.
PKF North America is a strategic affiliation of legally independent accounting firms. Our mission is to foster the independence, profitability and sustained growth of our members. PKF North America 1745 North Brown Road, Suite 350 Lawrenceville, Georgia 30043
CALL TODAY 770 279 4560
VISIT US AT www.pkfna.org Š 2015 PKF North America