Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Wayne Berson
I grew BDO from $600 million to $3.4 billion. Here's the 3-part formula that made it possible Original
For over a decade, I’ve led one of the country’s largest professional services firms through a period of massive change — growing revenue by nearly sixfold to more than $3.4 billion, expanding headcount in similar fashion, and establishing a new ownership structure, all while navigating digital disruption and a pandemic. As I reflect on what I’ve observed and learned after 14 years leading BDO USA, three interconnected themes emerge.
The 2025 BDO Sustainability Report
Stewardship is about continuity — honoring the vision and dedication that has made BDO a resilient organization, while preparing the firm to grow together into the future. Together, we are aligned on the priorities that matter: focusing on client centricity, supporting our professionals, and advancing responsible practices that strengthen BDO for the long term. Matthew Becker, BDO USA CEO and Wayne Berson, BDO USA Former CEO
BDO USA Recognized Among ‘100 Best Companies to Work For’ in 2026 by Fortune Media and Great Place To Work
Press Release alarm print PRINT share BDO USA has been named to the 2026 Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® list for the second year in a row. The firm's leadership credits BDO's people as the drivers of culture and the reason for this recognition. The 100 companies chosen for this list and certified by Great Place To Work® are highly praised for creating a positive employee experience across the board.
BDO USA Accelerates Growth Trajectory; Revenue Up 4.6% Year-Over-Year
Targeted expansions, AI investment, and a continued focus on people power ongoing growth and client service CHICAGO, March 2, 2026 − BDO USA, one of the nation’s leading accounting and advisory firms, today announced continued growth momentum, building on fiscal year 2025 revenue of $3.018 billion. Fueled by growing client demand, strategic combinations, and disciplined investment in people, technology, and capabilities, the firm expects to surpass key performance targets by the end of 2026.
BDO USA Names New National Managing Principals for Assurance and Tax, Signaling Next Phase of Growth
Frangiskatos Building a Quality-First Assurance Culture Centered on People and Clients Demetrios Frangiskatos, a proven leader and the architect of BDO’s digital audit strategy, joined BDO in 2000 and became a partner (now principal) in 2011. With more than 25 years of experience driving innovation and delivering client value, he is well positioned to guide the practice’s next era of growth and transformation.
PCAOB Announces BDO USA’s Lillian Ceynowa as New Member of SEIAG
Press Release alarm print PRINT share CHICAGO, February 2, 2026 — BDO USA is pleased to announce that Lillian Ceynowa, National Managing Principal, Audit Quality and Quality Management, has been appointed to serve on the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board’s (PCAOB) Standards and Emerging Issues Advisory Group (SEIAG). Lillian’s extensive background in audit quality, regulatory matters, and standard setting will be a tremendous asset to SEIAG.
LPGA Joins Forces with BDO USA to Empower Women On and Off the Course
Press Release alarm print PRINT share BDO Named the Official Tax and Audit Partner of the LPGA DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. and CHICAGO, Ill. (Jan. 21, 2026) – In a move championing excellence, empowerment, and opportunity, the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) has announced a multi-year partnership naming BDO USA as the Official Tax and Audit Partner of the LPGA. This collaboration unites two organizations dedicated to helping people thrive - whether in the world of business or on the fairway.
BDO Global 2025 Financial Results: Steady Growth Helps Worldwide Revenues Reach $11 Billion
Press Release alarm print PRINT share CHICAGO, December 10, 2025 - BDO, one of the leading global networks of independent public accounting firms, announced steady growth across practices and regions, surpassing US$11 billion (€10 billion) for the financial year ending September 30, 2025—a 4% USD (2% EUR) increase from 2024—while sustaining a 5-year CAGR of 8%.
BDO USA Welcomes Principal Class of 59 Professionals
CHICAGO, October 1, 2025 − BDO USA, one of the nation's leading accounting and advisory firms, has promoted 59 professionals to principal, effective October 1. I would like to extend my congratulations to our new principals on this major achievement. As leaders, mentors, and trusted advisors, these individuals embody BDO’s core purpose of helping people thrive every day by creating lasting value for our firm, clients and communities.
BDO USA Expands Professional Services Capabilities - With a Focus on Disaster Recovery - Through HORNE
Press Release alarm print PRINT share BDO USA Completes Addition of HORNE LLP in Its Largest Strategic Expansion to Date CHICAGO, November 3, 2025 – BDO USA, one of the nation's leading accounting and advisory firms, completed its addition of HORNE LLP, marking the largest strategic expansion in the firm’s history, with more than 1,300 professionals — including 30 principals — officially joining with BDO, as of November 1. I’m thrilled to welcome HORNE to the BDO family.
BDO USA Unveils Comprehensive Artificial Intelligence Strategy, Fusing Practical Innovation with Responsible Governance
To help lead and execute BDO USA’s AI strategy, the firm appointed Mike Gerhard to the newly established role of Chief Data and AI Officer in 2024. Gerhard spearheads BDO’s data and AI initiatives while also using data analytics and technology to drive business insights and innovation. Gerhard works collaboratively with leaders across the firm to develop proprietary AI tools that support how BDO professionals work and enhance their service delivery for clients.
BDO USA Named Among ‘100 Best Companies to Work For’ in 2025 by Fortune Media and Great Place To Work
Press Release alarm print PRINT share CHICAGO, APRIL 2, 2025 — BDO USA, one of the nation’s leading accounting and advisory firms, today announced its inaugural placement on the 2025 Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® list, presented by Fortune Media and Great Place To Work®. Earning a spot demonstrates employee satisfaction and is an important indicator of overall company performance.
BDO USA Teams Up with Olympian and Pro Golfer Albane Valenzuela
In addition to wearing BDO’s logo during tournament play, Valenzuela will join the company during various personal and promotional appearances throughout the year. BDO will also support the Alexis for Autism foundation, whose focus and purpose are to organize golf events to raise funds for associations, foundations and medical research for autism. To date, the charity has raised over $300,000 for autism-related research.
BDO USA Invests in Business Resilience
In 2024, BDO appointed a new Chief Operating Officer, Mark Ellenbogen, succeeding Steve Ferrara, who retired. The firm also appointed John Fiebig as the second independent member to its Audit Quality Advisory Council (AQAC). Established in 2022, BDO’s AQAC provides input on the firm’s system of quality management, directly advising BDO’s CEO and board of directors on audit quality matters.
Outlook 2025: It’s time to embrace change
If 2024 was a year of cautious optimism, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of bold action. Many C-suite leaders I speak with are optimistic about growth and profitability this year, and they aim to deliver these results for their stakeholders. These leaders are certainly mindful of the rapid-fire policy changes ushered in by the new administration. Some companies have even set up offices to monitor these changes and evaluate how they might affect their business.
CFOs Embrace Bold Growth Agenda for 2025 - BDO Report
CHICAGO, February 18, 2025 – Report Highlights: More than half of CFOs (52%) expect their organization's profitability to increase in the next 12 months. One in five CFOs (21%) say their organizations are building proprietary generative artificial intelligence (AI) platforms. Twenty-eight percent of CFOs are increasing upskilling and reskilling opportunities as part of their workforce strategy.
Making things better for the next generation, one relationship at a time.
It’s National Mentoring Month, and BDO is fully committed to this important endeavor. Last week, we proudly announced a cause partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the leading one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States. This is our first national strategic nonprofit collaboration and a major milestone since launching our expanded social impact strategy last year.
BDO USA Named Top Workplace by Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report
CHICAGO, OCTOBER 22, 2024 – BDO USA, one of the nation’s leading accounting and advisory firms, today announced several prominent recognitions. These include ranking No. 19 on Newsweek America’s Most Loved Workplaces® 2024 list and being named one of the Best Companies to Work For by U.S. News & World Report on its inaugural private companies list.
BDO USA Announces New Principal Class
CHICAGO, October 1, 2024 − BDO USA, one of the nation's leading accounting and advisory firms, has promoted 56 professionals to principal, effective October 1. I’m pleased to welcome these talented individuals to our principal ranks and congratulate them on this significant career achievement. Each of them embodies BDO’s people-first culture through their outstanding leadership skills and commitment to client service.
Employees today want a stake in their company. Let’s give it to them.
This month at BDO, we are celebrating the one-year anniversary of adopting an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and becoming the first major accounting firm to do so. The ESOP is not just the right move for us. It speaks to the wants and needs of our people, just as it could speak to employees in every sector of our economy. Ask people what they want from work, and you’ll hear what you likely already know: fair pay, respect, flexibility and a measure of security.
A Sustainable Business Helps People Thrive
Sustainability is good for business in so many ways. It can make an organization more efficient, resilient, and innovative. It can also help a company’s culture and its people thrive. That’s what we continue to strive for at BDO, where we see sustainability as an investment in our culture, the resilience of our business, the well-being of our communities, and the future of the planet.
The 2024 BDO Sustainability Report
As we forge ahead on our journey, we remain driven by our core purpose and our commitment to fostering an ownership mindset. Together, it is our responsibility — and privilege — to help our colleagues, clients, and communities thrive.
BDO USA Appoints New Chief Operating Officer
CHICAGO, June 6, 2024 − BDO USA, one of the nation's leading accounting and advisory firms, today announced that Chief Operating Officer Steve Ferrara will retire from his position following a distinguished 33-year career with the firm. Assurance Principal Mark Ellenbogen will succeed Ferrara as chief operating officer, effective July 1, 2024. Collaborating with Steve over the last 12 years has been a privilege.
Outlook 2024: Companies seek stability while investing for sustainable success
For most of my life, I’ve been fascinated by the game of chess. The best players are masters of risk management. They build formidable defenses that are virtually impenetrable, yet they are equally opportunistic, always ready to capitalize the moment they see an opening. That’s the strategy many business leaders are looking to employ right now. Concerned about a multitude of uncertainties, they are playing defense – scrutinizing all risks to their business and fortifying their finances.
Unity in a year of uncertainty
As we come to the end of a challenging year, we can see some hopeful economic indicators. Interest rates remain high, yet the economy is growing and continues to create jobs, and inflation has cooled. In 2024, I’m hopeful for a soft landing, where economic growth and job creation is slow but positive, and inflation is no longer a major concern. I expect we’ll be operating in a slow-growth, but more stable, environment.
BDO’s ESOP: A new business model for changing times.
The accounting industry is changing, and BDO is staying ahead of the curve. About two months ago, we established an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), becoming the first major accounting firm to challenge the traditional partnership model and embrace an ESOP. With more than 10,000 participating employees, BDO is also now one of the largest ESOPs in the country.
BDO USA Welcomes 60 Principals
“Congratulations to each of the new principals on this significant milestone. These individuals have built careers on helping people thrive, serving as leaders, mentors and advisors. I look forward to watching them contribute to the growth and success of the firm, their clients and their communities for years to come.”
Social impact: Where the head meets the heart
At BDO, we believe in shared responsibility for the well-being of our communities, and we stand up for causes that serve society and protect the planet. Our people inspire our efforts, as they strive to fulfill their own individual purpose and share their gifts with people in our communities who can benefit.
BDO USA to Establish ESOP
BDO USA Stewards Transformative Next Chapter With ESOP Purpose-driven strategy gives participating U.S. employees shared stake in firm’s success. CHICAGO, AUGUST 2023 − BDO USA, one of the nation’s leading accounting and advisory firms, today announced its intention to establish an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), providing a broad base of our employees the benefit of ownership and a new model for the firm’s continued investment, growth, and long-term sustainability.
A Historic and Transformative Moment
When I stepped into the role of CEO in 2012, I set a vision for BDO – Transformation, Synergy and Excellence. Today, as the BDO leadership team announces one of the most significant moments in our firm’s 113-year-old history, it’s clear this foundational work is profoundly relevant as we move into the next chapter of our shared journey. BDO USA plans to establish an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). An ESOP is the realization of everything our people-first, purpose-driven firm stands for.
Our S.P.I.R.I.T. helps us thrive, even amid uncertainty
How do you continue to thrive during uncertain times? That’s the aim for every organization right now, and it’s one that BDO has successfully navigated this past fiscal year. As we announced recently, we’ve had another outstanding year of double-digit revenue growth – our eleventh in a row. How does BDO continue to thrive?
BDO USA Optimizes Operational Structure for Continued Success
CHICAGO, May, 19 2023 − BDO USA, LLP, one of the nation's leading accounting and advisory firms, has optimized its geographical structure to continue enabling a holistic and collaborative approach to client service and professional development. After a decade of industry-leading growth, the addition of new capabilities and solutions, and expanded geographic reach and marketplace eminence, BDO has taken steps to further enhance agility, build resilience and ensure connectivity in its operations.
Evolving Our Business Toward a More Sustainable Future
Wayne Berson Wayne Berson Published May 1, 2023 One of the joys of leading a thriving organization is getting to see a long-term strategic goal reach a major milestone. The release of our first sustainability report represents one of those moments, and I couldn’t be prouder of the many people who collaborated on this complex initiative and brought it to fruition. Our sustainability journey began when we chose to put stewardship at the center of our business strategy.
BDO USA, LLP Announces Inaugural Sustainability Report
The report is issued in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) 2021 Universal Standards, the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) 2018 standard for the Professional & Commercial Services industry, and in alignment with the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). View the full report here. About BDO USA At BDO, our purpose is helping people thrive, every day.
2022 Sustainability Report
We view sustainability as an investment in the strength of our culture, the resilience of our business and the future of our planet. That’s why we’re continuing to integrate sustainable practices into our operations and have made commitments that will help us ensure that our planet and its people thrive. Our Goals and Commitments Investing in the future through sustainable initiatives isn’tjust about our future. It’s about the future of allour stakeholders.
Sustainability and ESG
Shaping a sustainable future For us, sustainability isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about taking steps to continuously evolve our business to be more responsible and more resilient. It’s about doing our part to make a positive impact and be a force for change, leading with purpose, holding ourselves accountable and prioritizing long-term stability over short-term financial rewards. Investing in sustainable initiatives isn’t just about BDO’s future. It’s about the future of all our stakeholders.
Every business needs to innovate. A culture of innovation will take it to new heights.
Wayne Berson Wayne Berson Published Mar 7, 2023 Talk to most middle market leaders today and they will tell you that innovation is not just a business issue – it’s an existential imperative. Without innovation, your business might not survive. Even now, during a time of economic uncertainty, companies remain committed to digital transformation and innovation.
Outlook 2023: Strategic resilience should always top the agenda
It’s a new year and a good moment for measured optimism. Today, the middle market faces numerous risks and uncertainties, as we have for many months. That said, 2022 was a strong year for the middle market, and many leaders expect to continue outperforming expectations in 2023. I do, too. Our CFO Outlook Survey helps unpack this moment. On one hand, almost 80% of CFOs saw their company’s revenue and profitability increase last year.
We before me.
Wayne Berson Wayne Berson Published Dec 15, 2022 The end of the year offers an opportunity for reflection. It’s also a season for gratitude. This year, having just completed 10 years as CEO of BDO, I’ve been thinking a lot about both. First, gratitude. I see this experience as a gift.
Growth is good. Smart, sustainable growth is better.
As a CEO, one of my primary responsibilities is to help my organization grow for the benefit of all our stakeholders. By that measure, our firm has done well with 10 straight years of steady revenue growth, making BDO one of the fastest growing public accounting firms in the U.S. The true measure of our success, however, is not how much we’ve grown; it’s how we’ve done it.
HAVE A PASSION FOR WHAT YOU DO
As you think about a career in audit, I'm certain you're curious about all that comes with this challenging, yet rewarding profession. We're all more than "just auditors" and lead fulfilling lives outside of the office. That's where the flexibility provided by a career in audit allows you to pursue what you are passionate about. It is important to have a passion for what you do, and use that to carry you through your day-to-day life.
How to Build an Outsourcing Niche
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY THERE'S WIDER RECOGNITION OF OUTSOURCING as a tool for day-to-day management. Outsource services CPA firms provide most often are accounting and finance functions—payroll, accounts receivable/payable, financial statement preparation and analysis, budgeting, cash management, internal audit and tax—but the possibilities include CFO functions, too.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Wayne
Contact Wayne, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack