Women in Accounting: Supervisors and Managers
March is Women’s History Month. Throughout the month, Brown Plus will be featuring insights from our female accounting team members at all levels, highlighting their many different paths through the accounting profession.
For our Women’s History Month interview this week, we’ve asked our Supervisors and Managers how they balance their professional and personal responsibilities, how mentorship has played a role in their careers and what advice they would give to those who are just starting out in the accounting profession.
How do you balance professional and personal responsibilities? How does flexibility in the Firm play a part?
“I am very thankful for the flexible work schedule at Brown Plus. As a mom with two young children, I can take advantage of going to doctor’s appointments and other events that may occur during the day and still get my work day completed on a modified schedule.”
Abbie Cawood, CB, Outsourced Accounting Senior Manager
“The balance of professional and personal responsibilities is always a juggling act and will change with each season of life. I have grown to learn that work deadlines are important and need to be met, but in order to function at the highest potential at work, it is just as important to take time for yourself and accomplish those personal responsibilities. Additionally, having a supportive husband and children allows me to work the long hours during busy season and ‘keep life moving.’ Flexibility is crucial as a working mother. My daily hours may shift due to the bus stop, appointments or sporting events, but Brown Plus supports those times and encourages me to enjoy those moments. Brown Plus has allowed me to work a modified schedule, and I often say I have the best of both worlds, being a mom and having a career!“
Kim Yordy, CPA, Audit Senior Manager
“Brown Plus understands the constant juggle of work and being a mom. The Firm gives me the flexibility to make sure I’m present with my kids, when needed. Specifically, the ability to adjust when and where I work has allowed me to fulfill my duties as a mom and ensure our clients’ needs are met.”
Cami Grimm, CPA, Audit Manager
“Busy season is busy season. Some days are more difficult than others, but I have learned that it is important to make time for personal endeavors, even in the busy times. Earlier in my career, I did not make time for myself as a person, and I quickly found that I was burning out and lacking enjoyment in my job. Saying yes to the dinner I am invited to, a game night with my family or simply taking a long walk has made a tremendous difference in both my personal and professional life. I have learned that my personhood needs to be a priority in order to be a better employee. Outside of busy season, the flexibility and overall environment of the Firm have made it possible for me to work a schedule that allows for other personal pursuits. Summer hours, generous PTO and flexible work hours all play an integral part in my work life balance.”
Courtney Catlin, CPA, Tax Supervisor
“I communicate with my team if my personal responsibilities begin to interfere with my professional responsibilities. Everyone I work with is very understanding and helps me with my workload when needed. I couldn’t manage this job as a single mom if it wasn’t for the unified team helping me with my life balance.“
Amanda Moats, CPA, Audit Supervisor
How has mentorship played a role in your career – both being mentored and being a mentor?
“I started with Brown Plus right out of college in 2009. I have been mentored by LuEllen Martin since day one with the Firm. She is a wealth of knowledge, an excellent teacher and always willing to troubleshoot problems with me. I can say without a doubt, I would not be where I am today without her taking me under her wing and investing so many hours over the years in me. I still learn from her today and try to follow in her footsteps with mentoring other staff. I have the utmost respect for her and am blessed to have her as a leader and friend. I also enjoy the opportunity to pay it forward and to mentor up and coming staff. Setting staff up for success and being available for questions and training moments are now opportunities for me to share the skills I’ve learned. It is so rewarding to help others and see them grow in their roles. Being mentored in such a positive way allows me to put myself in their shoes and share teaching moments that I know were essential in my growth.”
Abbie Cawood, CB, Outsourced Accounting Senior Manager
“Mentorship has been a major part of my career. If I had not had mentors that have paved the way for women to be in this career, I do not believe I would still be working in public accounting. There are men and women who reassured me it was okay to put my family first, and the Firm supports those decisions. While I am still deeply impacted by mentors, I strive to pass that on as well. If you take an interest in people, you can be a voice for their encouragement and be their biggest supporter. I believe we all need those people in our corner to talk us through the hard times and cheer us on during the high moments!”
Kim Yordy, CPA, Audit Senior Manager
“Being a mentor in my position has truly been one of the best parts of my career. Having opportunities to mentor incoming interns and associates has made my career feel more meaningful and has helped me develop professionally. I have found that mentoring others is as beneficial to me as I hope it is to them. I have gained tremendous growth in my communication, training and management skills through mentorship opportunities. I appreciate everything each and every mentor has done for me in the early years of my career, and I hope to impart these positive experiences to others. I strive to be a person people can look to in need of guidance and support in any situation they encounter. I have learned some difficult lessons along the way, and I hope to share these experiences with others so they can learn from them.”
Courtney Catlin, CPA, Tax Supervisor
“I wouldn’t be where I am if it weren’t for my amazing mentors. They have helped me get to where I am as a supervisor by always being there to talk to when needed and giving me compassionate honesty. It brings me joy to pass on to my mentees what I’ve learned from my mentors.“
Amanda Moats, CPA, Audit Supervisor
What advice would you give to those who are just starting out in the profession?
“Some days and months are harder than others, but persevere, and accounting will be a rewarding career. I have been impacted by my coworkers and the clients we are able to work with throughout the year. While we sit at desks, you are still a part of a greater team. Take the time to get to know your coworkers and find a mentor to help you along the way!”
Kim Yordy, CPA, Audit Senior Manager
“Sometimes the key to success is asking for advice or voicing concerns. Chances are, someone around you has had a similar experience and can help find solutions.”
Cami Grimm, CPA, Audit Manager
“Take advantage of every opportunity you have available to you! Whether it is preparing a different type of tax return, job shadowing someone in another department or joining a new committee, every experience will help shape your career. You never know what connection you are going to make within the Firm or the community that will help you develop. Whether a positive experience or one you wish not to duplicate, every opportunity will serve a purpose and guide you to the best version of you in your career.”
Courtney Catlin, CPA, Tax Supervisor
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be willing to take on new challenges. Trying and failing is better than never trying at all. It most important that you learn from your mistakes because that is how you grow.“
Amanda Moats, CPA, Audit Supervisor
If you are interested in learning more about Brown Plus, check our open employment opportunities to join our team!