Stacie Kwaiser, CPA

2024 Most Powerful Women in Accounting
CEO,
Rehmann

What is your favorite part of being a member of the accounting profession?

The people I get to meet and work with are by far my favorite part of the profession. From the beginning of my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many people from diverse backgrounds with distinct experiences and expertise. I’ve learned so much over the years from my clients, my coworkers, and my peers, and I’ve built many friendships.

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

The number of female leaders at every level in most CPA and business advisory firms throughout the country is night and day from when I first started. I believe the foundation for that change has been the focus on creating an inclusive environment that has allowed diversity to grow. That’s certainly something we’ve seen at Rehmann as our efforts to support women in the workplace has led to steady growth in the number of women at the owner and principal levels.

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

I think the evolving expectations of both clients and associates and the steps firms need to take to meet those expectations will continue to drive change. The rapid pace of technology development will also have a huge impact on the ways we work and communicate and just the way we live life in general.

What is your favorite professional mobile app, and why?

I can’t image not having the Outlook app on my phone. I also use the LinkedIn app a lot. It helps me keep in touch with what clients are accomplishing, learn more about our associates, and stay up to date on the latest trends and thought leadership.

What are your favorite podcasts?

Unfortunately, I don’t really listen to podcasts. I have tried to get into them, but find I just prefer reading instead.

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

I am currently reading Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara. It focuses on how small actions can make a big difference for employees and clients. I also always recommend Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg, which encourages women to actively pursue their goals.