Bringing our global network together is at the heart of the UHY Managing Partners' Forum. This year's MPF, held in the beautiful city of Split, Croatia, brought together leaders from across the UHY network to share ideas, discuss challenges and opportunities, and explore the trends that will shape the future of the profession. Over two days of strategic discussions, networking and social events, delegates had the opportunity to step away from their day-to-day responsibilities and focus on the bigger picture: the future growth and success of our global network.
The programme began on Sunday evening with a welcome dinner at Hotel Cornaro. It was the perfect setting to reconnect with colleagues from around the world, welcome first-time attendees and set the tone for the days ahead. These informal conversations are a vital part of the Managing Partners' Forum, helping to strengthen relationships that support collaboration across borders throughout the year.
Monday's business programme opened with welcomes from the Managing Partners' Forum Working Group Chairs, UHY International Chairman Roberto Macho, and our Croatian hosts UHY in Croatia. Delegates then participated in an extensive discussion on network KPIs, led by Alan Farrelly.
The afternoon focused on Quantifying Network Growth and Realising Global Ambition. Led by Roberto Macho, the session explored how firms can build stronger relationships across the network, expand service offerings, develop sector specialisms and embrace a "one firm" approach. Discussions also considered what clients increasingly expect from their professional services providers, as well as practical ways UHY member firms can work together to deliver greater value globally.
The day's formal sessions concluded with a drinks reception on the beautiful roof top terrace of Hotel Cornaro to introduce our new brand partners, Fieldguide and Laurel. The evening then continued with dinner at the renowned Bajamonti Restaurant in the heart of Split Old Town, where delegates enjoyed Croatian hospitality and local cuisine while building relationships beyond the conference room.
Tuesday's programme focused on leadership, growth and innovation. The morning session, led by UHY International Board Directors Jerry Townsend and Subarna Banerjee and Rhys Madoc, CEO, explored organisational growth and strategic development. Combining presentations with group discussions, delegates examined how firms can build sustainable growth strategies, develop future leaders and ensure they have the skills and structures needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.
Following lunch, attention turned to business development and collaboration across the network. UHY US Inc. Senior Director, Nikki Burgeson's session on Cross-selling and Growth encouraged delegates to think about where their next phase of growth will come from and how stronger collaboration between member firms can help improve client retention, unlock new opportunities and enhance service delivery.
A major theme throughout the event was technology and artificial intelligence. This year also marked the launch of UHY's new Event Partners Programme, and we were delighted to welcome Laurel and Fieldguide as our inaugural Managing Partners Forum sponsors.
Laurel helps professional services firms rethink how they capture and understand time by using AI-powered time intelligence technology. Laurel contributed to discussions around productivity, operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making, demonstrating how firms can gain better visibility into how work is performed while supporting teams with smarter processes. Their perspective resonated strongly with delegates considering how technology can improve both profitability and client service.
Fieldguide brought valuable insight into the future of audit, advisory and assurance delivery through modern, AI-enabled workflows. As firms face increasing demands for efficiency, quality and scalability, Fieldguide shared perspectives on how technology can help professional services organisations modernise engagement delivery while maintaining high standards and supporting growth. Their contribution added an important practical dimension to the Managing Partners Forum broader conversations on innovation.
The technology discussions culminated in a dedicated session on Leveraging Technology in Professional Services, delivered by Billie McLoughlin of AI Accountancy alongside Laurel and Fieldguide. The session explored AI adoption within the profession, practical case studies, emerging use cases and the opportunities and challenges firms are facing as AI becomes increasingly embedded in professional services. The programme concluded with a lively panel discussion and audience Q&A, giving delegates the opportunity to engage directly with technology experts and discuss the practical realities of implementing AI within their firms.
After a final programme wrap-up from Rhys Madoc, delegates came together one last time for the closing dinner at Adriatic Restaurant. Set against the stunning backdrop of Split's coastline, the evening provided a fitting end to a successful Forum, allowing attendees to reflect on the insights gained, relationships strengthened and opportunities identified over the previous few days.
A huge thank you to our hosts UHY in Croatia, for their warm welcome and support in delivering such a memorable event.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in Split and contributed to another successful Managing Partners' Forum.
Connecting our people. Sharing our expertise. Strengthening our global network.
