TEI Region 10 held its 46th Annual Conference May 5–7 at the Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Coast, California.
Over the course of three days, tax professionals from across the region gathered for a robust program of technical education, professional networking, and discussions on the issues shaping today’s tax landscape.
Program Highlights
The conference featured a diverse agenda covering many of the most pressing topics facing corporate tax departments, including:
- federal, state and local, and international tax developments;
- recent developments related to Form 6765;
- mergers and acquisitions, ASC 740, and tax controversy matters; and
- the expanding role of technology, AI, and automation within the tax function.
A particularly popular feature of the conference was the interactive Tax Technology Lab, which provided attendees with hands-on exposure to emerging tools and practical applications. The strong engagement and enthusiasm generated by these sessions have already led organizers to expand technology-focused programming for the 2027 conference.
Featured Speakers
One of the conference’s highlights was an appearance by former IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig, who participated in a panel discussion addressing current tax controversy issues and developments. Continuing a longstanding conference tradition, Rettig also presented Brad Pees with a coveted IRS challenge coin in recognition of Pees’ service with the IRS.
Another highly attended session, Latest From the Hill, featured an insightful discussion between Rohit Kumar and Jon Traub, who provided attendees with timely perspectives on tax policy, legislative developments, and the evolving Washington landscape.
Region 10 was also pleased to welcome Walter Doggett, TEI international president, who moderated the latest One Big Beautiful Bill Act update and shared perspectives on TEI initiatives and priorities.
Networking and Special Events
The conference opened with a festive Cinco de Mayo–themed networking reception, creating an energetic and collegial atmosphere for attendees. The networking opportunities continued throughout the conference, including a dinner at Nobu sponsored by DLA Piper and BDO.
The conference concluded with a closing reception sponsored by Region 10, Crowe, and RSM, providing a memorable setting for attendees to reflect on another successful conference and celebrate the region’s continued commitment to education, advocacy, and professional connection.
Acknowledgments
Special recognition is due to conference co-chairs, Kevin Manes and Linda Kim, whose leadership, dedication, and attention to detail were instrumental in delivering an exceptional event.
The region is also quick to recognize the contributions of the broader 2026 Planning Committee, whose efforts were essential to the conference’s success, including Orange County Chapter leaders Cynthia Warner and Jay Leibowitz, San Diego Chapter leader Son Le, and Arizona Chapter leaders Theresa Conner, Tony Arnold, and Raj Wadhera.
Looking Ahead
Region 10 will return to Southern California for its 2027 Annual Conference, which will be held April 28–30 at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach in Dana Point, California. Building on the momentum of this year’s event, attendees can look forward to another outstanding program of technical education, thought leadership, and networking opportunities.
