245. Risks for CPA firms, with Stan Sterna

245. Risks for CPA firms, with Stan Sterna

From Future-Proof by Bill Sheridan of MACPA

April 14, 2026 · 50 min · Episode 245

About this episode

This episode explores the evolving risk landscape for CPA firms with insights from Stan Sterna of Aon.

What does risk look like for CPA firms today? In this episode of Future-Proof, we sit down with Stan Sterna of Aon to explore how the risk landscape is evolving across the profession. Stan explains how new technologies, shifting regulations, workforce changes, and expanding advisory services are creating both opportunity and exposure for firms. He highlights why risk management must move beyond checklists and become part of firm culture, with clear expectations around engagement letters, documentation, staffing, and communication. From hybrid work challenges to AI overreliance and the impact of busy season on decision-making, this conversation offers practical insight into how firms can manage risk more strategically and avoid the shortcuts that can lead to costly mistakes. Resources: Stan Sterna, SVP Accounts Risk & Control Lead at Aon, LinkedIn Profile Aon, Professional Services Practice

People in this episode

Guest: Stan Sterna

Topics covered

  • risk management
  • CPA firms
  • technology
  • regulations
  • workforce changes
  • advisory services

Keywords

  • hybrid work
  • AI
  • risk landscape
  • opportunity
  • exposure
  • firm culture

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Aon

More episodes of Future-Proof

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Future-Proof podcast page.