The Professional Services Pursuit

Welcome to another episode of the Professional Services Pursuit. This episode features a recording from a recent webinar hosted by the 4A’s. Brent joins Adam Cotumaccio, COO at 4A’s, and Patricia Rothenberg, Global COO and General Counsel at 72andSunny, to explore the transformative role of AI in creative agencies. They discuss the idea of heroic delivery and how agencies are adjusting to new economic models influenced by AI.Key topics covered include:- The unsustainability of heroic delivery due to economic pressures and AI advancements.- AI's impact on agency pricing strategies.- Insights into how AI streamlines agency operations and affects client expectations.- An examination of the legal compliance and security concerns associated with integrating AI.- Predictions on the evolution of creativity within agencies as AI handles more routine tasks, highlighting the ongoing importance of human talent.

In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit podcast, Banoo wraps up our series on Gen Z in the workplace. Featuring insights from three remarkable Gen Z professionals, this conversation delves into how their generation is reshaping work cultures and expectations. Listen in as they share their career journeys, the importance of company culture, and their visions for the future workplace.Key topics covered include: Career path exploration in the midst of uncertainty and global changesThe critical role that company culture and values played in their career decisions Essential elements for successful leadership and management in the modern workplacePerspectives on risk-taking from a Gen Z viewpoint The importance of networking, mentorship, and leveraging social media to build valuable professional relationships and guidance.If you would like to listen to the entire series on this topic check out these episodes as well: Ep. 72 - Understanding and Engaging Gen Z in the Workforce w/ Tessa MisiaszekEp. 76 - Navigating Multi-Generational Workforces w/ Meagan Johnson

Welcome to a special Halloween-themed episode of The Professional Services Pursuit! Join hosts Banoo and Brent as they share spooky tales from their collective 40 years of experience in the professional services industry. Get ready for a chilling journey through the challenges, unexpected twists, and spine-tingling stories of projects gone wrong, nightmare clients and more.Key horror stories:The marketing microsite nightmareY2K panicA demanding clientM&A culture shockA long flight for a short meetingTune in for these and other haunting stories from the world of professional services. Don't forget to share your own horror stories with us at podcast@kantata.com, and stay tuned for a potentially more cheerful episode during the winter holidays!

In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit podcast, Brent welcomes Igor Mamut, VP of Strategic Finance at Kantata, for a deep dive into the evolving role of the CFO in the professional services industry. They explore the strategic imperatives and considerations that finance leaders weigh when investing in new technologies and platforms. Igor shares his extensive experience, discussing the importance of aligning technology investments with both current and future business needs. Whether you're running a services company or selling software to one, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the financial and strategic dynamics at play.Key topics include:The CFO's expanded role from financial gatekeeper to strategic advisorCritical questions for evaluating new platformsAligning tech investments with future goals and operational efficiencyBalancing essential needs versus nice-to-havesLearning from past mistakes and refining decision-making frameworksPreparing for future challenges in a rapidly changing regulatory and economic landscape

In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit, we share a recent webinar we did with The Society of Digital Agencies (SoDA). Tom Beck, SoDA’s Executive Director, interviewed Brent, Deborah Heslip and Louise Martens from the Monks Agency. The discussion delves into the transformative trends impacting agencies today, market dynamics, the influence of AI, shifts in commercial models, and the importance of operational efficiency.Other key topics covered include:Agency transformation and AI's role in driving efficiency and innovationTraditional hours-based models vs. outcome-focused pricingThe importance of aligning business operations with client demandsPractical advice on integrating AI within agenciesThe risks of inaction in the face of technological advancements To explore the topic more, check out this report by SoDA and Kantata on the transformation of agency frameworks, focusing on operations, client relations, talent management, and innovation.

In this episode of the Professional Services Pursuit, Banoo continues her exploration of generational differences in the workplace by talking with Meagan Johnson. Meagan, a renowned generational expert, author, and corporate speaker, shares her insights on bridging the generational gaps to create a cohesive, productive, and harmonious work environment. With a focus on Generation Z, this episode also explores the historical evolution of generational dynamics and offers practical tips for recruitment, retention, and team collaboration.Other key topics include:Understanding generational signposts Effective communication across generations Tips and strategies for fostering collaboration among multi-generational teamsRecommendations for attracting and retaining Generation Z talent Techniques to keep Gen Z employees engaged and connected in a remote working environment.Learn more from Meagan by visiting meaganjohnson.com

In this compelling episode of the Professional Services Pursuit, Brent welcomes back Tom Rodenhauser and introduces Ramone Param, both from Kennedy Intelligence. They discuss the pivotal role private equity (PE) is playing in reshaping the consulting industry. They also delve into emerging trends, strategic growth, and the increasing influence of PE firms in transforming traditional consulting practices into more robust and scalable business models.Key Topics Covered:How traditional private partnership models are evolving The factors driving the surge in PE investment in the consulting sectorQualitative and quantitative elements that attract PE investmentAnalysis of supply and demand dynamics, and future trends in the consulting sectorThe necessity for consulting firms to adopt strategic operational reviews and benchmark against industry standardsTo learn more about Kennedy Intelligence, download the report or listen to their podcast "Consultants Talk" visit their website - https://www.kennedyintel.com/

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Professional Services Pursuit podcast! Join our host, Banoo, as she dives deep into the professional services industry with Sabina Pons, Managing Director at Growth Molecules and co-author of the book “Pressing On As a Tech Mom”. This episode is packed with expert advice on creating seamless customer journeys, overcoming challenges in professional services, and balancing career with personal life.Key topics covered include:How to craft a cohesive, scalable customer program that ensures a remarkable customer experience from start to finish The common challenges companies face in making the customer journey seamless and how to overcome themThe importance of data governance and technology IntegrationSabina’s career journey, the importance of mentorship, and how supportive leadership can significantly impact job satisfactionInsights from Sabina’s bookThe first listener to email us at podcast@Kantata.com will win a free 55-minute consulting session with Sabina. Tap into her extensive customer success leadership expertise and learn how to turn your CS Org into a profit-center for your business. And if you would like to check out her book, it is available on Amazon here.