Adam Burnett – 2014 40 Under 40 Honoree

What are the key areas of your firm that have seen the greatest change/challenge in workflow over the past few years? (Or, what are the key challenges you see firms facing?)

The biggest workflow challenges I see firms facing are addressing customer demands for increased security around their data, especially with the trend of telecommuting staff, and managing the generation and talent gap that has resulted in a lack of mid-level talent in the available workforce. I believe these two issues will play a leading role in shaping the industry and its practices for years to come.

To what extent have you and your practice/company embraced cloud computing?

At Wolters Kluwer, CCH, we have embraced the cloud computing movement wholeheartedly. One example of this is CCH Axcess, our cloud-based solution capable of handling all tasks associated with tax preparation, compliance and workflow processes.   I have spent the last four years of my career helping firms of all sizes implement cloud solutions, such as CCH Axcess and its various modules.

In what ways have you contributed to your firm/company to make it a better place?

As a remote employee and manager of a large remote team, one of my biggest challenges is making a personal impact in the workplace. To combat the distance, I take every opportunity possible to have personal, non-work related conversations about the things we do outside of work and make a concerted effort to remember the details of the conversations. I also ensure we set aside time during our smaller in-person team meetings and our annual department meeting to get away from work and participate in team building, fun activities.
 
In what ways do you participate in either the professional community or your local community to help others?

I am a big advocate of giving time to help others. I have participated in volunteer events with Habitat for Humanity, Project C.U.R.E., Kaboom and a mentor program for developmentally disabled adults through Denver Options.
 
What major changes do you foresee in the accounting profession of the near future (3-5 years)? I

believe we will continue to see large technology and software changes driven by the need to manage the ever increasing complexity of compliance work and demand for increased data security.

How do you see yourself participating in shaping the future of the accounting profession?

My passion is helping accounting firms find the best, most efficient way to accomplish their work. I see my role in shaping the future as two part: First, to provide input and feedback to my company’s product development teams in order to continue to push the envelope in terms of product capabilities and feature sets. Second, to continue to help accounting firms implement the solutions we provide through enhancement of our training and consulting services and facilitation of best practice sharing across the profession.

What is your career philosophy?

Work hard and treat everyone with respect.

Not including your current employer, what company do you most admire and why?

It might be a bit cliché, but I really admire Google. The ways they have made life easier through internet applications is astounding. Their relentless pursuit of innovation, from the Google Glass to the self-driving car projects, along with their focus on corporate social responsibility make them a company that stands out in my mind.

Describe one person who has been an important mentor to you and how that person helped change your life.

Kim Harmon, my manager for eight of the last nine years, is someone who has played a significant mentoring role in my life. She has pushed me to excel both personally and professionally. She continuously challenges me with new opportunities, helps me celebrate my successes, and lets me stumble (once in a while) only to help me succeed afterwards.

 

Read more about this year’s 40 Under 40 Honorees.