Kimberly Ellison-Taylor, CPA, CGMA, CISA
2018 Most Powerful Women in Accounting
Global Strategy Leader, Oracle Corporation
Past Chairman, AICPA
What advice would you give to female college students about the opportunities for women in the accounting profession?
There is no “box”. Let’s dream big and reimagine our future. In order to leverage and maximize the many opportunities that are available, we must refute stereotypes and “can’t” from our thinking. In locations throughout the United States and around the world, in organizations of all sizes and in every industry, CPAs and CGMAs are mission critical. There is a seat for all of us. Please be sure to own your own truth, say yes to roles and opportunities that will increase your skills and visibility, and seek a personal board of directors that includes mentors, coaches, and sponsors.
What would you suggest to accounting firms that are interested in retaining and advancing more qualified female staff?
In today’s environment of 5 generations in the work place- Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Gen X, Gen Y and Gen Z—one size fits one. The standard across board management approach will not maximize the strengths of the team. Both men and women will require different resources, mentoring, and coaches at different times during the course of their careers. The firms that can provide assistance and support throughout the many career seasons will be much more likely to retain their top talent. Also, proactive and frequent communication are very important to illustrate a clear blueprint of leadership succession and developmental leadership assignments. Modified work schedules and flexible work locations are just 2 areas where many firms are noting success. Firms may also consider reaching out to talented team members and asking them to accept new leadership roles as opposed to waiting for the team member to volunteer or apply.
Why did you choose to work in – and stay in – the accounting field?
As a 3rd grader, I fell in love with the accounting profession. I understood that it was great foundation for whatever I wanted to do in my life. Since that time, that notion has been reinforced over and over again. Our colleagues are in Public Practice, Business & Industry, Government, Education, Non Profit, and Consulting. Accounting Firms, Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Sports Management are a just a few of the areas where we add value. Our profession provides many paths to achievement and I am delighted to note these options in my own career where I’ve been a CPA in Public Practice, in Government and now in Business and Industry.
What are you currently reading?
Each day, I review various articles, alerts from regulators, business news, accounting publications, etc from various sources. I am also currently reading the Anticipatory Organization by Daniel Burrus.
What changes do you foresee in the accounting profession of the near future (3-5 years)?
Technology is a game changer. As a result, innovation and disruption are happening at a pace never before seen and it’s fundamentally changing the way we live, work and think. Accounting is “what” we do but Technology is “how” we do it.
New skills and learning competencies are needed to further embrace the opportunities brought by technology and to also best position ourselves for the future. Leveraging our earned reputation as trusted advisors, CPAs and CGMAs are best and uniquely positioned to provide the guidance and services that the public and businesses require.
How do you see yourself participating in shaping the future of the accounting profession?
As a Past Chairman of AICPA, Past Chairman for the Association of Certified Professional Accountants and also as a Past Chairman for the Maryland Association of CPAs, I will absolutely continue to work on behalf of the profession. I am excited to work in any number of areas but especially any areas related to Technology, Transformation, and Next Generation Leadership.
Describe one person who has been an important mentor to you and how that person helped shape the direction or focus of your professional life.
I have many mentors—both younger and older than me however, parents are my most influential mentors. My mom was a stay at home mom and my dad worked in a factory across 3 shifts. He would catch 2 metro buses to work and never missed a day. Mom made sure we did our school work and was the Chief of our home. I learned compassion, hard work, integrity, team work, accountability and the drive to make myself better tomorrow than today. I treasure these core values and appreciate learning them at an early age.
Please share a personal rule or principle that you follow.
I believe “To Whom Much is Given, Much is Required”. I have been very fortunate and it is my responsibility and obligation to pay it forward to help the next generation of leaders.
See the full list: 2018 AICPA / CPA Practice Advisor Most Powerful Women in Accounting.
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