Honestly, I didn’t really like my accounting classes in college. But once I started working in audit, I learned that the job isn’t just rote checklists and debits and credits. Being an auditor requires teamwork, and you use logic and analytical skills to help clients solve problems.
I have an insurance industry client that I’ve been working with for almost a decade. They are always changing, growing and striving to lead their industry, and it has been very interesting and rewarding to work with them through the addition of new service lines and acquisitions. We have a very collaborative, year-round relationship.
Analytical, hands-on and collaborative. I dig in and really learn about an issue, then work with my team to find the simplest and best approach to solve it. I like to be out in the field, so I can answer staff questions and talk to my clients.
Professionally, it’s making partner. Personally, it’s climbing to the top of Huayna Picchu, the mountain that rises above Machu Picchu in Peru.
My dad. We have different views on a lot of things, but he instilled in me the importance of a strong work ethic and of always doing my best. He also taught me to be able to laugh at myself and not take myself too seriously.
Ask questions. Really talk to your clients and work with your engagement team to understand why you’re doing something. If you understand the why, you can figure out the how.