In the News: March 24, 2025

As tax season enters its final stretch, many professionals are already eyeing a much-needed recovery week. But while deadlines approach, the industry doesn’t pause. This week’s news roundup highlights key leadership changes at the IRS and AICPA, important updates for QuickBooks ProAdvisors, strategic insights into automation, and a high-tech tale of corporate espionage involving Rippling and Deel.

IRS News

IRS Criminal Investigation Names New Deputy Chief (IRS.gov)

IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) has appointed Gary Shapley as Deputy Chief. With over two decades at the agency, Shapley has led several high-profile cases and served as the Executive Director of CI’s Operations, Policy, and Support. His leadership is expected to enhance CI’s efforts in tackling complex financial crimes. Read more...

Accounting News

New Chair Named to AICPA Auditing Standards Board (Journal of Accountancy)

The AICPA has announced the appointment of a new chair to its Auditing Standards Board (ASB). The incoming chair brings extensive experience in assurance services and will play a critical role in guiding the ASB’s standard-setting process. This transition comes at a pivotal time as the profession adapts to evolving audit demands and technology. Read more...

Technology News

ProAdvisor Updates: Recertification and Training Events (Insightful Accountant)

QuickBooks ProAdvisors are reminded of upcoming recertification deadlines and continuing education opportunities. Insightful Accountant highlights key dates, including the next virtual certification event and recent updates to the Top 100 ProAdvisor nomination process. Read more...

QuickBooks ProAdvisor Level 2 Certification VCon is Next Week (Insightful Accountant)

Scheduled for next week, the Level 2 Certification Virtual Conference (VCon) will provide in-depth training for QuickBooks ProAdvisors aiming to deepen their product expertise. The event is designed for those who have already completed Level 1 and want to enhance their consulting capabilities. Read more...

7 Benefits of Accounting Automation (The Woodard Report)

A recent article from The Woodard Report outlines seven key benefits of accounting automation. From improving accuracy to freeing up time for strategic advisory, automation is helping firms become more efficient and scalable. For firms looking to modernize, this is a practical guide on where to begin. Read more...

Other Interesting Things We Found

How to Restore Trust with Clients – Podcast Episode (The Woodard Report)

In Episode 114 of The Woodard Report Podcast, the discussion centers around rebuilding trust with clients, particularly after mistakes or misunderstandings. The episode offers actionable insights and real-world scenarios for firm leaders and client-facing professionals. Read more...

Rippling Says It Caught an Internal Spy With a Slack Honeypot (Entrepreneur)

In a surprising use of internal communications tools, Rippling claims it caught a corporate spy by planting false information in a Slack channel. The lawsuit alleges that competitor Deel conspired with an employee at Rippling to gain information. Read more...

That wraps up this week’s In the News update. We’ll be back next week with more of the top stories shaping the accounting profession and its future.