Firm Management
Jeff Moskowitz, CPA – 2015 40 Under 40 Honoree
This year’s 40 Under 40 honorees are among the best and brightest talent in the accounting profession. They are all active in the professional community, as well as in their local communities, where many are small business owners and employers.
Sep. 15, 2015
What is the name of one book that has been a great influence to you?
More than a single book, I have always been interested in current events and non-fiction works. I particularly enjoy the Wall Street Journal and rely on a wide variety of media to remain current on world and national events. In addition to my personal interest in these areas, I find that being as knowledgeable as possible about the events of the day – even of the hour – enables me to better connect with my clients and understand their needs in a more nuanced and tailored way.
In what ways have you contributed to your firm/company to make it better?
In the most concrete sense, I have generated many new business opportunities for CohnReznick. But at least as satisfying, I have also demonstrated a commitment to helping others in the accounting profession through my significant recruiting efforts and involvement in training. During my time at CohnReznick and prior to that, I have been instrumental in hiring multiple team members. It is extremely rewarding to see those who I have recruited and mentored grow in the accounting profession.
As I have gained experience over the years, I have also served as a key resource for all manner of technical questions within a broad range of industries. To this end, I recently coordinated and delivered an internal training session on technical updates in the broker dealer industry and have conducted weekly calls with important updates to the practice.
In what ways do you participate in the professional community to change/improve the accounting profession?
I believe it is important to contribute to the profession both inside and outside the confines of the firm. Throughout my career, I have developed and presented at numerous internal and external trainings across the financial service sector. I really enjoy traveling to conferences and comparing my experiences with others, and I have spoken at several seminars and authored thought leadership pieces. This exchange of ideas is critical to the continued growth and development of our profession.
In what ways do you participate in your local community to help others?
I believe it is important to give back to the community and have done so in a variety of ways. I have served as an active board member of a local institution within my community, with a particular focus on youth programming. I have a passion for fundraising and have coordinated and hosted several local events and charitable efforts to benefit not-for-profit organizations, with causes ranging from support for families in need to assisting at-risk children and young adults.
What changes do you foresee in the accounting profession of the near future (3-5 years)?
Retention and recruitment is going to be a key within the accounting profession, especially in an improving economy. As employment levels return to historical norms, competition for top talent will intensify and accounting firms will vie with one another to recruit and retain top talent.
How do you see yourself participating in shaping the future of the accounting profession?
I will continue to focus on mentoring and developing staff. In addition, effective communication has always been a significant aspect of my career. Recognizing those that have given the effort to go above and beyond is a key component in driving success and developing future leaders within the profession.
What is your career philosophy?
Working hard and smiling under pressure have always been a focus of who I am. In addition, I have always felt responsible for all clients of the firm, not just my own, and believe collaboration is a key aspect of the profession that sometimes is overlooked. Finally, I think it is important to “know what you don’t know” – if an area is unfamiliar, I have never hesitated to seek assistance from others, or to provide assistance to those who seek it from me. The client is always better off in the end.
Describe one person who has been an important mentor to you and how that person helped change your life.
My grandfather was an important mentor and I was fortunate to spend a great deal of time with him over the years. He taught me the meaning of hard work and dedication to one’s profession. He came to this country from war-torn Europe with literally nothing and built a successful business and family over several decades of toil. The life he led remains an enduring lesson that I continue to cherish and emulate.
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See all of the “40 Under 40” honorees for 2015.