Windes, a premier advisory and accounting firm, celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2026, marking a century of service that has seen the organization grow from a small local practice into a multi-service firm recognized for technical excellence and client service. The firm's journey from its 1926 founding in Long Beach to its current status serving clients across the country and around the world illustrates the resilience required to navigate economic shifts, technological change, and increasing business complexity.
The firm has expanded its capabilities significantly over the past century to meet evolving business needs, now providing a comprehensive suite of services including audit and assurance, tax, client advisory services, transaction advisory services, human capital consulting, and technology and risk solutions. This expansion reflects Windes' adaptability in responding to the changing demands of businesses, nonprofits, retirement plans, and individuals. For business leaders, this demonstrates how professional service firms must continuously evolve their service offerings to remain relevant in dynamic markets.
Sean McFerson, Managing Partner at Windes, emphasized that the centennial represents both a celebration of the past and an investment in the future. The firm's foundation was built on integrity, service, and relationships—values that continue to guide its operations as it enters its next century. This commitment to core principles while adapting to change offers a model for other organizations navigating digital transformation and market uncertainty.
Windes' growth trajectory mirrors broader trends in the professional services industry, where firms must balance technical expertise with strategic advisory capabilities. The firm's focus on serving growth-oriented small and mid-sized privately held companies, nonprofit organizations, and high-net-worth individuals positions it within a competitive segment of the market that increasingly demands integrated solutions rather than traditional siloed services. The firm's approach uses tailored expertise to proactively inform decision-making, which has become increasingly important as businesses face complex regulatory environments and rapid technological advancement.
For technology and business leaders, Windes' century-long evolution underscores the importance of building organizations that can withstand economic cycles while embracing innovation. The firm's independence and pursuit of excellence have contributed to its longevity, suggesting that professional service firms maintaining strong cultural foundations while expanding service capabilities may be better positioned for sustainable growth. More information about Windes and its 100th anniversary is available at https://www.windes.com.
The accounting and advisory sector continues to transform through automation, artificial intelligence, and changing client expectations. Windes' milestone demonstrates how established firms can navigate these changes while maintaining their core identity. As businesses increasingly seek advisors who can provide clarity amid complexity, firms with deep expertise and adaptive capabilities will likely continue to play crucial roles in supporting organizational decision-making and growth strategies across multiple industries.
