Mick Nijher, CPA, CTP, MST – 2023 “40 Under 40” Honoree

Career Highlights

• University of Washington Alumni (Bachelors in Accounting & Masters in Taxation) 
• Big-4 Alumni (PwC). 
• Mentor to Accounting students at University of Washington & Seattle University. 
• Joined family-owned CPA firm in 2010, fueled revenue growth of 450% and grew the team from 5 employees to 27: 15 in the Seattle area & 12 overseas. 
• Initiated and developed an international partnership for outsourcing, growing the team from 2 to 12 overseas, complementing the 15 U.S. team members. 
• Featured as a speaker at multiple events as a leader in the outsourcing space. Invested personal time to provide guidance and advice to numerous CPA’s & CPA firms seeking to incorporate an outsourcing model into their operations. 
• Champion for modernizing our firm, focusing on mental health and work-life balance for the team. 
• Led a successful rebranding of our firm in 2023 to align with a modern, forward-thinking vision. 
• Transitioned from a generalist to a niche focused firm, focusing on small businesses. 
• Joined the American Institute of Certified Tax Planners in 2022, quickly advancing to Certified Tax Planner (one of only 106 in the U.S.). 

What are you doing to make a difference in the profession, your community, the world?
Addressing the talent shortage and burnout in accounting, I am committed to help reshape the industry’s narrative by guiding fellow CPAs towards building modern and fulfilling firms. Emphasizing work-life balance and valuing relationships over transactions, I advocate for a more rewarding approach to the profession, which in turn helps fulfil the lives of owners and team members. As a member of the Rightworks advisory board, I share strategies for growth and joy in the accounting journey. Additionally, I mentor University of Washington and Seattle University students, paying forward the invaluable mentorship I received, to inspire and empower the next generation of accountants. 

Current Professional Reading / Listening

• Books – Relentless – Tim Grover, Shoe Dog – Phil Knight , No Excuses – Brian Tracy, Outlive – Peter Attia, Can’t Hurt Me – David Goggins 
• Podcasts – Acquired, Growing your Firm, Huberman Lab, The Tim Ferris Show, How I Built This 

See all of the 2023 “40 Under 40” and “20 Under 40” honorees.