CLA Invests in Technology for Improved Transaction Advisory Services

As we reflect on 2023, it will be remembered for some economic uncertainty and slower pace of deals than we’ve experienced since the onset of the COVID pandemic. Despite the uncertainty, the CLA transaction advisory services (TAS) team demonstrated resilience, innovation, and adaptability to continue to provide exceptional service to our clients. Here are some of 2023 highlights:

Record deal volume

Despite the uncertainty, TAS had a record year of deal volume. Our team was involved in a wide range of transactions, from small acquisitions to large-scale mergers.

Expansion of services

In response to client demand, TAS expanded its service offerings in 2023 specifically around digital readiness, post-merger integration, and owner transition services. This allowed us to better serve our clients and provide them with support to make informed business decisions before, during, and after a deal closing.

Investment in technology

TAS made significant investments in technology in 2023, allowing us to streamline processes and improve client service. We implemented new tools and software improving our efficiency and accuracy, and we regularly look for ways to leverage technology to enhance our services.

Talent expansion and development

TAS is committed to developing our team members and providing opportunities to grow and advance their careers. Despite the economic uncertainty, we ended the year with new team members at every experience level, including principal. Our commitment to our people — no matter the market instability — is a testament to CLA’s purpose to create opportunities for our people.

How we can help

We are proud of what we have accomplished and excited about what the future holds for TAS at CLA. We remain committed to providing exceptional service to our clients, investing in our team members, and giving back to our communities.

Weighing a business transaction in 2024? Discover how our client-focused approach, multi-disciplined team, and deep industry experience come together to help you achieve your transaction goals. Contact us for assistance.

Written by Katelyn Kerfeld

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Craig Arends is a principal at CLA and is the managing principal of CLA's private equity practice. Craig brings a concentration of experience in providing accounting and transaction structuring advice for leveraged recapitalizations, purchase accounting and SEC reporting, assessing quality of earnings, and GAAP accounting. He has far-reaching experience with critiquing financial models and reviewing target companies' financial performance to identify cost reductions and/or operating efficiencies Craig has more than 30 years of experience in public accounting serving public companies, private equity groups, and companies, including a term as principal in charge of a Big Four Capital Markets Group in Moscow, Russia. He has led financial accounting due diligence projects for private equity investor groups and venture capital funds, primarily in the technology, communications, and manufacturing industries, as well as assisting with Foreign Corrupt Practice Act matters ranging from investigation of payments made, validation of compliance with corporate policies, and review of proposed transactions to ensure compliance. When not working, Craig enjoys watching any sports, but his most favorite are baseball, football and soccer.

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