#United States #New York #Ascend Partners #EPM Consulting #CLIMB Program

Ascend Partners Launches the CLIMB Online Program

Ascend Partners, a prominent consulting and strategy firm located in New York, has taken a significant step towards shaping the future of Enterprise Performance Management (EPM) consulting with the introduction of its new training program titled CLIMB (Consultants Learning IT, Management, and Business). This initiative, developed in partnership with iDesign, aims to address the growing technical talent gap within the finance transformation sector by providing professionals with the skills and expertise needed to excel in this dynamic field.

The Need for Specialized Skills

The finance landscape is rapidly evolving, and as it becomes increasingly complex, the demand for skilled professionals who can adeptly manage sophisticated technology and implement strategic financial solutions has skyrocketed. According to Peter Popalis, Managing Partner of Ascend Partners, closing the platform skills gap in EPM consulting is paramount for organizations seeking trusted advisors to modernize their financial operations. The CLIMB program is designed not just to provide basic technical training but to equip participants with a profound understanding of key areas such as financial systems, decision-making frameworks, and effective problem-solving techniques. This comprehensive training approach is intended to unlock the full potential of participants, empowering them to advance their consulting careers effectively.

Program Overview

The CLIMB program will launch in June 2025 and will consist of a 12-week onboarding and training curriculum followed by a two-year associate program. It is tailored for new graduates and professionals eager to gain essential skills in accounting, finance, and industry-specific knowledge necessary for a successful career in EPM consulting.

In a world where many CFOs still rely heavily on traditional tools like Excel for budgeting and forecasting, the need for real-time financial data and agile business strategies has never been more critical. As companies embrace innovative software solutions like OneStream, the demand for specialized service partners, such as Ascend, has intensified. The CLIMB program directly addresses this need by offering training that seamlessly integrates technical fundamentals with real-world applications. By ensuring that participants acquire job-ready skills, the training is crafted to translate directly into effective implementation and support of modern financial technologies.

A Unique Learning Experience

To create this robust online program, Ascend has engaged iDesign, an award-winning instructional design firm with extensive experience collaborating with educational institutions and corporations across North America. iDesign’s experts focus on crafting engaging learning experiences that resonate with the practical needs of businesses.

As highlighted by iDesign’s CEO, Paxton Riter, the program’s structured, hands-on training will equip participants with the financial and technical acumen needed to navigate contemporary enterprise systems effectively. By focusing on practical applications of financial technology, participants will not only enhance their productivity but also contribute to the strategic decision-making processes essential for a company’s financial health.

Ascend’s Elite Partnership Status

Ascend Partners holds a prestigious designation as one of only 20 OneStream Diamond Partners globally. This elite status signifies its exceptional expertise in guiding organizations as they streamline financial operations through advanced enterprise technology. The significance of this designation underlines the firm’s commitment to developing a new generation of professionals in the EPM space through the CLIMB program.

Conclusion

In today’s fast-paced business environment, continuous improvement and adaptability are key. The CLIMB program by Ascend Partners represents a forward-thinking solution that not only prepares professionals for success in EPM consulting but also plays a vital role in the overall modernization of finance operations across various organizations. As Ascend continues to pave the way for innovation and expertise in the field, its investment in the future workforce through the CLIMB program positions both the company and its participants for enduring success.