Private Equity, Fit, and the Future of CPA Firm Deals with PGA Intermediary Morry Brown

Accountant's Flight Plan

In this episode of The Accountant’s Flight Plan Podcast, Brannon is joined by Morry Brown, California market leader at Poe Group Advisors and a longtime family friend. Morry shares his journey from Goldman Sachs to helping CPA firm owners navigate the evolving landscape of firm sales, particularly as private equity (PE) ramps up its interest in the accounting profession.

Making Informed Decisions in a Rapidly Changing Market
Morry and Brannon explore why having multiple offers and opportunities to talk to different buyers gives sellers more leverage and clarity about what matters most. They also discuss why PE buyers are increasingly interested in younger firm owners who aren’t necessarily ready to retire and what this means for those owners. From roll-up strategies and scalable efficiencies to risks around long-term PE timelines, Morry breaks down what firm owners need to consider if they’re eyeing a potential exit in today’s fast-evolving environment.
Timestamps

1:09 – Intro: Morry Brown’s background & joining Poe Group Advisors
3:13 – Why PE buyers are drawn to CPA firms
5:00 – Market changes, rising valuations, and firm consolidation
7:02 – Inside the PE acquisition process & what headline numbers miss
11:14 – Fit vs. price: what really matters when selling
16:01 – Understanding PE timelines, fund mandates & market uncertainty
19:30 – PE can improve firm performance—but it depends on the vision
22:27 – Industry roll-up comparisons: Blockbuster, Waste Management, AutoNation
24:10 – AI + outsourcing: the next evolution in firm efficiency
26:00 – Book rec: Life by Keith Richards
27:17 – Wrapping up: connect with Morry via the Poe Group Advisors website