What advice do you have for women who are aspiring to advance in the accounting profession or take on leadership roles?
For women aspiring to advance in the accounting profession or take on leadership roles, it is important to build a solid foundation of technical skills while also developing leadership and strategic abilities. Earning relevant certifications such as the CPA, CMA, or CFA can enhance credibility, while actively seeking mentorship and sponsorship can provide valuable guidance and career opportunities. Networking within professional organizations and industry events is crucial for visibility and advancement. Additionally, advocating for oneself—whether through salary negotiations, pursuing promotions, or tackling challenging projects—plays a significant role in career advancement. Finally, promoting a flexible work culture and supporting other women in the field through mentorship and advocacy contribute to a more inclusive and progressive profession.
What unique perspectives or approaches do you bring to the table as a female partner in the industry?
As a female partner in the accounting industry, I bring a blend of collaborative leadership, strategic problem-solving, and dedication to mentorship and professional development. Female partners enhance decision-making by incorporating diverse perspectives and fostering a more welcoming and empathetic work-place culture. I prioritize building strong teams, creating a supportive work environment, and advocating for opportunities that drive both individual and firm-wide success. Building meaningful client relationships is at the core of my approach, and I apply technical expertise and a well-rounded perspective to support our clients in their strategic financial decision-making. Additionally, I support a flexible work culture, understanding that an empowered and diverse team encourages both innovation and efficiency. With resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to integrity, I strive to create a positive impact that not only strengthens our firm’s competitive edge but also promotes equity, sustainability, and long-term success within the industry.
As an experienced accounting professional, what trends or changes in the industry do you think firms should be preparing for in the next few years?
As an experienced accounting professional, I believe firms should be preparing for several key trends and changes shaping the industry in the coming years. The increasing adoption of artificial intelligence and automation is transforming traditional accounting processes, making it essential for firms to invest in technology and upskill their workforce to remain competitive. Regulatory changes and evolving tax laws will require firms to stay agile and proactive in compliance and advisory services. Additionally, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting is gaining prominence, pushing firms to integrate sustainability considerations into financial reporting. As this type of reporting becomes increasingly important, accounting firms and businesses are being encouraged—or in some cases required—to incorporate ESG factors into their financial reporting. This means they need to track and report on things like carbon emissions, diversity and inclusion efforts, ethical business practices, and corporate transparency, ensuring that financial decisions align with sustainability and ethical considerations. Also, the shift toward remote and hybrid work models also demands new strategies for collaboration, cybersecurity, and maintaining firm culture. By embracing these changes, accounting firms can position themselves for long-term success in an evolving landscape.
How does Stephano Slack support flexible work culture and career growth for women in the accounting field?
Stephano Slack LLC supports flexible work culture and career growth for women in the accounting field by promoting diversity in leadership, offering mentorship opportunities, and fostering a community-oriented workplace. The firm’s diverse leadership enhances decision-making and provides strong guidance, empowering emerging female professionals by creating an environment where female partners can thrive professionally and personally. The firm also embraces a flexible work culture, allowing employees to balance their time between home and office with core hours, enhancing productivity and well-being. To further support career growth, Stephano Slack offers ongoing training and networking opportunities. The firm’s has a SheSpark Group whose mission strives to empower women to achieve their fullest potential through support, development and networking. Through these initiatives, Stephano Slack cultivates an inclusive and supportive environment where female professionals can excel and confidently advance in their careers.
In your opinion, what qualities make for an effective female leader in accounting, and how do you foster those qualities in yourself and others?
An effective leader in accounting must possess a combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, strong communication skills, and the ability to inspire and develop others that drives both business success and industry progress. Integrity and sound judgement are essential, as trust is the foundation of the profession. Adaptability and a forward-thinking mindset help leaders navigate regulatory changes, techno-logical advancements, and evolving client needs. Additionally, promoting collaboration and mentorship strengthens teams and promotes professional growth. To cultivate these qualities in myself, I prioritize continuous learning, seek feedback, and balance analytical thinking with emotional intelligence which enables me to build strong client relationships and lead my team with confidence and integrity. I encourage my team to develop leadership skills by providing growth opportunities, empowering them to take ownership of projects, and supporting their professional development. By fostering a culture of learning, innovation, and leadership, I contribute to shaping the next generation of accounting professionals, both within my firm and in the accounting profession.
Originally posted in Philadelphia Business Journal
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