UHY International Annual Conference 2025: A Global Gathering in Sydney

As delegates arrived at the Intercontinental Sydney last week, it was clear this would be a global accounting conference to remember. Against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour, the UHY International Annual Conference 2025 unfolded as a dynamic blend of learning, leadership and lasting connections. It was a true celebration of our global network. 

A week of insight and engagement

Hosted by UHY Haines Norton, the flagship professional services annual event for UHY opened on Wednesday 22 October with regional meetings and a well engaged drop-in session hosted by the Executive Office, offering practical guidance on business development, branding and network tools. From there, the conference programme unfolded into a rich mix of keynote presentations, technical sessions and interactive panels.

Highlights included:

• Artificial Intelligence and the Future of the Profession: James Bergin of Xero and Diego Medone of Consulting IQ led compelling sessions on the opportunities and challenges of AI in accounting, urging firms to take an active role in shaping their future.
• Shared Accountability Across the Network: Bernard Fay of UHY Fay & Co Spain delivered a timely address on the importance of trust, consistency and quality across member firms; a cornerstone of UHY’s global reputation.
• Wellbeing and Sustainable Performance: Lawrence Mitchell’s session on holistic leadership and resilience struck a powerful chord, highlighting the importance of psychological safety and human connection in driving long-term success.
• Tax and Audit Technical Sessions: Delegates explored regional tax systems, AI in tax, audit quality, regulatory updates and technology trends; gaining practical insights to support their clients and firms.

Conversations, connections and culture

Networking and camaraderie were central to the experience. Delegates enjoyed a welcome barbecue at Martinez, a scenic dinner cruise around Sydney Harbour, and a spectacular gala dinner at the Sydney Opera House — a fitting finale to a week that celebrated the spirit of UHY.

The final day included guided tours of the Opera House and regional breakout sessions, followed by a recap and presentation from the UHY Forum winner, Samantha Eidinger

Perspectives from our global accounting network

Throughout the week, delegates shared their reflections:

“The energy, insight and collaboration from across our global network is inspiring. Thank you to every delegate, speaker and our host firm, UHY Haines Norton Sydney, for making our global conference such a memorable event.”

“An enriching experience that reaffirms our commitment to excellence, ethics and international collaboration.”

“The value of genuine in-person connection feels more important than ever.”

Looking ahead

With tax and audit updates, alongside discussions on private equity, cross-border cooperation and the evolving role of professional services, the event set the tone for a future defined by agility, purpose and shared success.

As the network looks ahead to next year’s regional events and the 2026 Annual Conference in Atlanta, the momentum, insights and relationships forged in Sydney will continue to shape the journey of UHY; a global accounting network where global reach meets local excellence.