Jeannine K. Brown, CPA – 2024 Most Powerful Women in Accounting

My favorite part of being a member of the accounting profession is the incredible opportunity to continue influencing the field even after transitioning out of the day-to-day practice of State and Local Tax (SALT). As an executive coach and entrepreneur, I enjoy serving as a thought leader in a profession I respect, serving various firms, and nurturing the talent to become more impactful and dedicated people leaders. This aspect allows me to witness and contribute to the broad range of professional opportunities—from technical expertise in specialties like tax and audit to strategic roles in management and consulting. By empowering professionals to grow and develop, I help shape the future of accounting, ensuring it is vibrant with skilled leaders who leverage their thought leadership and lead and inspire their teams. This unique position makes my involvement in the accounting profession fulfilling and instrumental in fostering a generation of well-rounded, insightful leaders.

How have you personally seen the roles of women evolve in the accounting profession?

Women in the accounting profession are increasingly taking on strategic roles, influencing broader business outcomes, and contributing to diversity and innovation in leadership. This evolution is fascinating as more and more women demonstrate that they can lead, rise, and thrive while also serving as caregivers to their children and parents. Women are empowered to make choices that work best for them, negotiating what they want at home and work. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a pivotal moment, reshaping these dynamics and teaching us valuable lessons about flexibility, remote work, and leadership accessibility. Women have learned how to leverage these new work models to rise in leadership positions, reshaping the workforce for both experienced and senior leaders. This period underscored that while we may not be able to have it all at the same time, with the right amount of planning, we can indeed have all that we want. 

As a leader passionate about fostering a supportive environment for women, I am deeply encouraged by these developments. These shifts show the resilience and adaptability of women in crafting their pathways to success in the accounting profession.

What do you anticipate will be the biggest change in the accounting profession in the next 10 years?

I believe, the biggest change likely will be the increasing integration of technology, such as AI and machine learning, in the accounting processes. This shift will automate routine tasks and require accountants to develop skills in data analysis and strategic decision-making. Accountants will have to stay relevant using technological solutions to solve more complex financial problems.

What is your favorite professional mobile app, and why?

My favorite professional mobile apps:

• Door Dash – I use it as a connection tool when sending lunch to our teams and clients. 
• Boardable used to host encrypted video meetings. I like that is a full meeting tool for agenda, video, and chat all on screen.
• Poll – Everywhere because I can engage without audiences real-time to capture their thoughts and respond immediately to what they write during polling and feedback.

What are your favorite podcasts?

• The UnToxic Boss
• Before 30
• Beyond the Business Suit
• Bossed Up

What books have you read recently that you would like to recommend?

• Unstuck and Unstoppable, 5 proven Strategies to Leverage Your Value, Increased Your Visibility, and Gain Recognition to Accelerate Your Career.
• Heal the Workplace
• The Burnout Gamble
• Subtle Acts of Exlusion

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