Jessica Sayles, CPA, MSA – 2019 40 Under 40 Honoree

Career Highlights:

• Made principal at 29, equity principal at 30, and managing principal at 33
• Made managing principal 2 months after birth of first child
• Manage a practice of 21 all-female CPA firm with 11 CPAs and 4 CPA candidates
• University of Nevada, Las Vegas Accounting Alumnus of the year in 2016
• Founded the Sayles Advancement in Education Foundation in 2019 to further the post-secondary accounting education of students facing personal or financial hardships

What are you doing to make a difference in the profession, your community, the world – maximum 100 words

I feel it is my professional obligation to help bring diversity into the accounting profession. While women and minorities make up a relatively equal percentage of new hires into the accounting workforce, their numbers dwindle substantially as they advance through the profession. My partners and I have worked to provide an environment where more nontraditional accounting personnel can grow and be successful within our profession.

Favorite books/websites/speakers that you find influential

• The most recent books I’ve read are “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek and “Crucial Conversations” by Patterson, Grenny, McMillan, and Switzler. It is imperative as leaders that we constantly evaluate ourselves, our motivations to lead, and the best ways to communicate with our coworkers. I listen to TED Talks most mornings while I get ready for work. I pick whatever topic seems motivational for the day and go for it!

What do you see yourself doing professionally in 10 years?

• I hope I am continuing to work with my team to grow our firm into a place of integrity and inclusiveness while keeping sight of our most important priority – our time OUTSIDE of work.

What accounting conferences do you normally attend?

• I attend the AICPA ENGAGE conference annually

What websites/magazines do you use to keep up on news of the accounting profession?

• Journal of Accountancy
• CPA Practice Advisor

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See all of the “40 Under 40” honorees for 2019.