BKR International members from across the Americas, EMEA and Asia Pacific gathered in Dallas, Texas, from 23–26 October for the 2026 Worldwide & Americas Conference, bringing together firm leaders, professionals, industry experts and partners for four days of learning, collaboration and connection.
Hosted in partnership with Dallas member firm The CJ Group, the conference took place under the theme Global Unity in Action, with a programme exploring leadership, artificial intelligence, governance, strategy and talent development.
The combined Worldwide & Americas format created valuable opportunities for members from different regions to connect and build new relationships across the association.
“It was fantastic to meet the EMEA and Americas teams and already some opportunities have been discussed,” shared one attendee.
BKR International CEO Jeremy Vokt opened the business programme with an update on the association’s direction and ambitions, including BKR’s adoption of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and an early look at the upcoming plans for BKR’s website – updates designed to connect firms with practical resources and solutions.
Leadership was a strong theme throughout the conference. Mackey Smith explored how firms can build environments where people want to stay and lead, while Christopher Fritz led breakout sessions on using EOS to create greater focus, accountability and traction.
Looking further ahead, Tom Hood presented Rise2040 and the Future of Finance and Accounting, drawing on the AICPA & CIMA RISE2040 initiative to explore artificial intelligence, emerging technologies and the changing shape of the profession.
A key message was that successful transformation depends on more than technology alone.
“Technology enables change. People bring it to life.”
That message resonated with attendees, with one delegate reflecting that it is increasingly about “building the right team to utilise AI effectively, rather than just having AI available within our firm.”
The programme also looked at governance, with Gary Thomson challenging members to consider whether leadership and decision-making structures are keeping pace with firm growth. His session explored the importance of clear responsibilities, effective consultation and giving Managing Partners the time and authority needed to lead.
Beyond the business programme, members and guests experienced the best of Dallas and Fort Worth through a varied social programme.
The Lone Star Luxe Gala Dinner brought attendees together overlooking the Dallas skyline, while Sunday’s visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards and Billy Bob’s Texas offered a taste of Texas through the famous cattle drive, barbecue and line dancing.
The day concluded with dinner at Tower Club Dallas, with panoramic views across the city.
“The atmosphere at the rooftop bar on Sunday evening was incredible. Such a beautiful place to host a dinner with amazing views,” commented one companion.
The conference also connected members with organisations supporting firms across the profession. BKR extends its thanks to Gold Sponsors UWorld and Todata, alongside AccountingCMO, EOS Worldwide and Fieldguide, for their support.
The 2026 Worldwide & Americas Conference demonstrated the value of bringing the BKR community together to share ideas, strengthen relationships and consider how firms can prepare for the future.
BKR International extends its sincere thanks to The CJ Group for its support in hosting the conference, together with all speakers, delegates, sponsors, companions and contributors who helped bring Global Unity in Action to life.
We look forward to continuing the conversations and connections developed in Dallas and welcoming members to the 2027 BKR Worldwide Conference in Lisbon, Portugal, from 23–25 October.
