Annual Global Conference 2026

October 2026

Russell Bedford International Annual Global Conference 2026

Russell Bedford International welcomed members from across its global network to Los Angeles, California, for its 2026 Annual Global Conference, held at SLS Beverly Hills.

Following a landmark year in which the network surpassed US$1 billion in global fee income for the first time, with growth across every region, the conference provided an opportunity to celebrate collective achievements and explore the future of the accountancy profession.

The event began with a welcome dinner, where CEO Stephen Hamlet, Global Chair Daniel Ryba, Vice Chair Deanna Salo and Alan Kazden, Partner at LA host firm Rose, Snyder & Jacobs LLP, welcomed delegates to Beverly Hills.

Opening the business programme, Stephen shared an update on the network's continued growth and development, before introducing representatives from two of its newest member firms, Russell Bedford DLJ and TSG Your Trusted Accountant.

The future of the profession was a central theme throughout the conference. Tina Sanford of AICPA & CIMA presented 'Rise 2040: Reshaping the future', examining the changes influencing accountancy, while Ty Hendrickson of Inovautus Consulting explored how revenue discipline can help firms achieve sustainable growth in an increasingly consolidating market.

Ash Noah of AICPA & CIMA considered the opportunities presented by AI-enabled advisory, while Amy Beth Kessinger of The Growth Partnership examined how firms can maximise the potential of Gen Z.

Interactive workshops addressed practical challenges and opportunities for member firms, covering succession planning, global pricing strategies, cross-border business development and the evolution of audit quality. Delegates also explored the growing importance of cybersecurity and AI.

The final morning brought delegates together for leadership updates and the network's Annual General Meeting, providing an opportunity to reflect on future priorities and continued development.

Beyond the conference programme, delegates enjoyed valuable opportunities to reconnect and strengthen relationships. An evening of bowling brought out everyone's competitive spirit, while an energetic group of members took to the streets of Beverly Hills in their very own Russell Bedford run club.

Reflecting on the event, Stephen Hamlet, CEO of Russell Bedford International, commented:

"What makes our Annual Global Conference so special is seeing the strength of our network in action. We've had some excellent discussions about the future of our profession, but it's the relationships behind those conversations that really matter. Bringing our members together in Los Angeles has been a wonderful reminder of what we've built and the opportunities that lie ahead."

The conference concluded with a spectacular gala dinner at the iconic Petersen Automotive Museum, where delegates gathered among an extraordinary collection of cars for a memorable evening of celebration.

Russell Bedford International extends its sincere thanks to Los Angeles host firm Rose, Snyder & Jacobs LLP, along with all speakers and delegates, for contributing to another successful Annual Global Conference.