35 years of MSI: An Interview with CEO Martin A Scott
This year, MSI Global Alliance turns 35, and we’re taking a moment to celebrate the people and partnerships that have brought us here. We caught up with our CEO, Martin A Scott, to talk about the journey so far, what makes MSI special, and why the future looks so exciting.
Martin, congratulations on MSI Global Alliance’s 35th anniversary. Looking ahead, where do you see the organisation in the next five years?
We have a strong and well-regarded alliance, built on personal relationships and trust between members. Over the next five years, I expect market forces to shape us more than anything else, particularly consolidation in major markets driven by private capital and strategic mergers.
We’ll remain member-led, and while technology will play a role, our core culture will remain the same.
You’re relatively new to MSI. Tell us a bit about your background, and why you joined.
I spent 11 years each with PwC and EY, working in tax, cross-service line roles, and most recently in private equity. Large firms operate on trust and strong personal networks, the same foundation MSI is built on.
I know the risks and rewards of referring important client relationships, and the value of meeting face-to-face to build confidence. I also bring insight into how larger organisations invest in technology, including AI and machine learning, and how to adapt those innovations for smaller but ambitious firms.
What excites you most about leading MSI into its next phase?
The culture here immediately resonated with me. We’re entering a fascinating period for the professions: accounting and law are both facing disruptive change from private capital, generational shifts in leadership, and evolving equity structures.
MSI’s independence, paired with a truly global association, positions us well to help members navigate these changes and thrive.
What do you think is unique about MSI, and what does 35 years mean to you?
Our multidisciplinary nature: bringing law and accounting together, is rare. It offers opportunities for deeper collaboration and combined value for clients. Anything that has lasted 35 years must be doing something right.
Many of our member firms have been with us for decades, and we’re now seeing a second generation of leaders take the reins. That’s both an opportunity and a challenge: we must keep asking ourselves whether we’re still relevant and delivering on our purpose. For me, the bigger question is how we get from 35 to 70 years, and that will require honest self-reflection and adaptability.
How has joining MSI impacted you personally at this stage of your career?
Leaving my previous role was a personal risk. I was happy there, and they were happy with me. But from my first days, especially at our record-attendance EMEA conference in Vienna, I saw first-hand the warmth, trust and collaboration among members.
It’s far more personal than I could have imagined. At MSI, decisions have a visible, immediate impact, which is both exciting and humbling. I feel fortunate to be in a role where I can make a tangible difference.
Finally, the theme of this year’s anniversary is “People and Progress”. How does that fit with your vision?
It’s entirely aligned. Progress is only possible if it’s driven by and for our members. Our people are the heart of MSI, and they will guide how we evolve. That balance of people and progress will shape the next chapter.
As MSI Global Alliance celebrates 35 years, members will come together for the MSI International Conference, taking place from 26–28 October in Vancouver, Canada. Under the theme MSI 35: People & Progress, the event will honour the relationships and shared achievements that define our global community while looking ahead to the opportunities of the future.
With inspiring keynote speakers, specialist interest groups, interactive discussions and networking opportunities, the conference promises to be a memorable occasion in a spectacular setting.
Secure your place today and be part of this milestone gathering: Register for the International Conference