What is Touche Ross International?;

              In response to the increase in multi­national
business organizations and the
growth of international trading communities,
the public accounting profession has re-ex­amined
its role in the world business
community.
These developments are the subjects
of the opening set of articles in this special
international issue of TEMPO. The authors
are Russell E. Palmer, managing director and
chief executive officer of Touche Ross
International and managing partner of
Touche Ross in the United States; William
R. S. Ritchie, chairman of the board of
governors and managing partner of
Touche Ross in the United Kingdom; and
Ian H. Bell, vice-chairman of the board
of governors and managing partner of
Touche Ross in Canada.
To set the firm's perspective on these
developments—and on the contents of this
special issue—Russell Palmer discusses the
thinking behind the new firm organization,
Touche Ross International, its purpose and
objectives. Next, William Ritchie analyzes
the potential of the Common Market in light
of Britain's recent membership. And finally,
Ian Bell tracks the growth of multinational
corporations and their increasing conflict
with the political states in which they do
business.
WHAT IS TOUCHE ROSS
INTERNATIONAL?
An Interview with RUSSELL E. PALMER,
Managing Director, Touche Ross International
What is going on in the world today that prompted Touche
Ross to create its new international organization?
Three factors. First, there is a tremendous growth in the
volume of international business. Large and small com­panies
everywhere are becoming more involved. Their
need is to be able to work through their public accounting
firm and be served wherever they operate.
Second, there is an equal increase in the complexities of
conducting business in many countries. Accounting stand­ards,
government regulations, tax laws, and business prac­tices
are unique in each country. To deliver effective
service, firms serving international interests require the
experience, understanding, and expertise that can only
come from professionals who are at home in each na­tional
environment.
Finally, nationalism grows stronger in every part of the
world. Whenever possible, corporate managements turn
first to professionals of their own country to direct the
services they require worldwide. They prefer that these
professionals be influential leaders in an international firm
—not mere branch representatives of foreign-dominated
organizations.
How is Touche Ross International a response to these de­velopments?
The three factors appear to set up conflicting require­ments.
The first calls for coordinated central leadership
and direction of client service from the perspective of the
client being served; the second places emphasis on unique