Meet Randy
Randy Crabtree is a nationally recognized business leader and speaker who has taken on traditional industries by advocating for a more human approach to leadership. He has been named one of Accounting Today’s Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting in 2023, 2024 and 2025, and the firm he co-founded, Tri-Merit, has been honored by Inc. Magazine as one of the 5,000 fastest-growing privately held companies in the U.S. in 2022, 2023, and 2024. In 2026, the Illinois CPA Society honored him with its Beacon Award. Surprisingly, while leading Tri-Merit to extraordinary growth and success, Randy came to the realization that he was in the wrong role.
It was after suffering a stroke that Randy discovered that the true strength of leadership lies not in perfection or control, but in vulnerability. He stepped down as Managing Partner so he could focus on the tactical work at which he excelled.
Soon he transformed his career, focusing his time on lifting workplace culture in the accounting industry and inspiring leaders to recognize the value of their employees. His leadership philosophy has not only resonated deeply across accounting and eventually other industries, but it has also produced extraordinary results. Through his keynote addresses, as host of The Unique CPA podcast, and his annual sold-out Bridging the Gap Conference, Randy has delivered his message to engaged audiences of all sizes.
In 2026, Randy went all in on that mission, retiring from Tri-Merit and launching The Brain Trust through his company, The Brainstorm Group, a partner program for innovative companies helping shape the future of the profession.
Today, Randy speaks to leaders across the country and partners with companies moving the profession forward. His message is the same in both: vulnerability fuels trust, connection, and sustainable success. His success didn't happen in spite of his vulnerability; it happened because of it.
Transform Your Team with a Leadership Talk by Randy Crabtree
Contact Randy to schedule a custom-tailored presentation featuring impactful strategies that deliver proven results to evaluate your current work environment. His insight and authenticity allow him to connect directly in small groups or comfortably engage in large conference settings.