At Riveron, Sasha Morozova is a Senior Managing Director, our Atlanta Market Leader, and an advisor with incredible experience in accounting advisory, audit readiness, and capital markets. Her ability to connect with clients and colleagues is special. Our CMO, Linda Orton, wanted to learn more about Sasha's achievements over the last year and plans for the Atlanta market in the coming year.

Linda Orton (LO): What have been Riveron’s key milestones and achievements in Atlanta over the past 12 to 18 months?

Sasha Morozova (SM): Our recent private equity sponsorship from Kohlberg & Company, with continued backing from H.I.G. Capital, has fueled our expansion—particularly in Atlanta, where we’ve deepened our capabilities in financial advisory, strengthened our leadership team, and enhanced our professional development programs. Our focus remains on supporting CFOs, private equity firms, and other stakeholders in navigating complex business challenges.

LO: How has the demand for financial advisory services evolved in Atlanta, and what unique challenges does this market present?

SM: CFOs are being asked to do more with fewer resources, requiring both strategic guidance and hands-on support. We see a growing demand for IPO readiness, financial reporting improvements, and accounting process transformations. For example, we advise one client on a year-long IPO preparation, helping them upgrade financial reporting, internal controls, and forecasting. Another public company we support is undergoing a complex, multi-year financial restatement to correct deficiencies and strengthen its accounting function.

Atlanta’s diverse and growing business landscape presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly in balancing operational efficiencies with regulatory compliance and investor expectations.

LO: What are the biggest challenges facing business leaders in today’s economic climate, and how does Riveron help?

SM: Rising costs and market uncertainties are pressuring companies to streamline operations, strengthen governance, and improve financial reporting. We help CFOs and their teams navigate major transitions—whether it’s preparing for and executing a capital event, managing organizational improvements or restructurings, or addressing audit complexities. Beyond financial operations, we assist clients in refining their investor communications, sustainability reporting, and ESG strategies to meet evolving stakeholder expectations.

LO: How do you approach ESG strategy development for your clients?

SM: Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all framework, we tailor ESG strategies based on industry, geography, and regulatory expectations. In states like California, where ESG mandates are more defined, companies often require compliance-driven solutions. In Atlanta, ESG programs are still maturing, with businesses focusing on stakeholder-driven priorities. We help companies identify where to start, how to structure their reporting, and how to integrate ESG considerations into broader business objectives.

LO: How is Riveron leveraging technology, and how do you see its role in advisory services evolving?

SM: We don’t just implement technology—we assess how it fits into a company’s broader financial and operational strategy. While we partner with leading software providers in financial close, corporate performance management (CPM), and ERP, our approach is solution-agnostic. We help companies optimize processes before investing in technology, ensuring the right tools are in place for long-term efficiency. Increasingly, businesses are looking to AI and automation to enhance decision-making, and we’re guiding them on how to implement these solutions effectively.

LO: What sets Riveron apart in recruiting and retaining top talent?

SM: Riveron's culture prioritizes people, professional growth, and inclusion. We’ve developed employee resource groups, such as a program supporting veterans transitioning into the workforce. One initiative, a firm wide physical challenge inspired by military training, fostered teamwork while raising funds for charity—our Atlanta team won this event. In collaboration with Emory University, we also participated in a leadership development course at Fort Moore, reinforcing collaboration skills beyond traditional business settings.

LO: What is your outlook for the Greater Atlanta market?

SM: We’re seeing renewed interest in M&A, IPOs, and other capital-raising activities, even as companies continue to operate with leaner resources. Businesses are investing in process improvements and strategic initiatives, and we anticipate continued growth across key industries in the region. While challenges remain, companies that proactively address operational and financial inefficiencies will be well-positioned for success.

To connect or learn more about the insights explored in this interview, visit Sasha Morozova's profile.