Is Disruption Good for an Accounting Firm?

The Nature of Disruption in the Accounting Industry: Understanding Innovation

Harry Catrakilis explores the impact of disruption within the accounting industry, reflecting on how change—often met with skepticism—can drive innovation and growth. Drawing from his observations at CKH Group, he discusses the challenges and rewards of embracing new leadership, questioning whether disruption is a risk or a necessary evolution. Through comparisons with other industries and a broader look at economic shifts, he considers whether bold moves truly shape the future of business.

“At CKH Group, the firm I founded, a new generation of leadership has taken the reins. Sitting on the sidelines, I’ve watched as changes—some of them which could be seen as quite disruptive—have been introduced. It has made me wonder: Is disruption, especially in a profession built on stability, actually a good thing?

This question isn’t unique to our firm. In many ways, it echoes broader societal shifts, including what we’ve seen in politics, economics, and across most industries. For many, the initial reaction to sudden disruptive changes would be an adamant ‘heels-in-the-ground’ no. But as many know, the businesses that succeed are often the ones most willing to adapt, to take calculated risks, and to welcome new ideas with vigor.

Bringing this back to CKH, we too have seen a shake-up. Our new leadership team includes a chairman who is a lawyer, which brings a very different perspective, and a CEO with boundless energy—someone I can only describe as the “Energizer Bunny.” Together, they’ve “shaken the tree,” challenging long-standing practices and uncovering inefficiencies.

While innovation is the cornerstone of tech industry companies, accounting has long been a profession that values stability over risk. Many accountants see their careers as a path to financial security rather than a space for innovation. Traditionally, disruption in this field is viewed with skepticism, if not outright resistance.

Even watching the changes at CKH up close, and having been in the accounting field for so long, I’ve had mixed feelings. On one hand, I see the inefficiencies being rooted out, and I think, Wow, this is long overdue. On the other, I worry—Are we cutting too deep? Could we prune the tree so much that we kill it?

However, it’s hard to argue with the immediate benefits that “shaking the tree” has uncovered, both for our clients and for our staff.  The firm has embraced technology to improve the review process and automated processes that were done manually, immediately creating efficiencies.

Change is not for the faint-hearted; prior to this, the firm was in the “this is the way we have always done things” mindset. When I see what they have planned, it is truly revolutionary, and I recognize that young, driven leaders are pushing CKH forward in ways that wouldn’t have happened otherwise. As we age, we tend to play it safe, weighing risks more heavily. Younger leaders have more incentive to challenge established practices and make the firm and the services they provide so much better.

Take companies like Amazon, Netflix, Uber, and Airbnb; all of which successfully introduced disruptive innovation in their respective industries with something new, and are now paving the way. Their competitors are now in a game of catch up, and while not every company will have the successes they did, if no change happens, then they will get left behind.

The Verdict on Disruption

The long-term impact of disruption—whether in business, politics, or the economy—remains uncertain. But at CKH, I can already see some immediate benefits. There’s a renewed sense of momentum, a spring in the step of younger team members, and a willingness to challenge outdated practices. Without this infusion of new leadership, we might have been left behind.

Perhaps now, more than ever, the Latin proverb “audentes Fortuna iuvat”—Fortune favors the bold—rings true. Success often comes to those willing to take calculated risks.

As for me? I’m not sure I have the same appetite for bold moves as I did 30 years ago. But watching CKH embrace change, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride—and maybe even a bit of excitement for what’s to come.” -Harry Catrakilis

The above article only intends to provide general information and reflection. It is not designed to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. It does not give personalized tax, financial, or other business and professional advice. Before taking any form of action, you should consult a financial professional who understands your particular situation. CKH Group will not be held liable for any harm/errors/claims arising from the blog. Whilst every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the contents, we will not be held accountable for any changes that are beyond our control.