Navigating the Path to Success: From CPA to COO – A Personal Journey

By, Kari Erickson, COO, CPA, MST

Introduction

Embarking on a professional journey in the world of accounting is a challenging yet rewarding experience. As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), the years of hard work, dedication, and commitment have culminated in a significant milestone – being promoted to partner and selected as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of our prized firm. This transition marks not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the continuous evolution and growth within the dynamic field of accounting.

Chapter 1: The Foundation – From CPA to Partner

The journey began with the pursuit of knowledge and expertise in the intricacies of accounting. Accounting classes came easy to me in high school, so it seemed fitting to major in accounting at St. Mary’s University. In January 2002, my initiation into the world of accounting began with the humbling experience of being an intern at Mahoney. It was a period of absorbing practical knowledge, honing skills, and navigating the ins and outs of the profession.

The journey toward the coveted CPA designation was not without its share of challenges. Life events tested my strength of commitment and perseverance. The CPA exam was hard…so hard! It took me years, and I mean years, to pass that “quiz” (as one of our former partners liked to call it). Achieving the CPA designation was a pivotal moment and a personal triumph.

Fast forward over two decades, and here I am, still proudly representing Mahoney. Working side by side with incredible clients, collaborating with dedicated team members, and contributing to the collective success of our firm has been both an honor and a privilege. These relationships, both past and present, are the heart of my career.

Chapter 2: The Call to Leadership – Balancing Act

Being a partner and COO simultaneously will be a delicate balancing act. While the partner role involves client engagement, business development, and maintaining high-quality services, the COO responsibilities require overseeing internal operations, managing resources, and driving organizational excellence. In addition, harmonizing the demands of a bustling personal life with four active children adds an extra layer of excitement. Striking the right balance between professional aspirations and personal responsibilities will be a driving force of how I operate. I am ready and excited to meet the demands of what lies before me and am confident that I have the support, both professionally and personally, to succeed and, of course, have some fun along the way!

Chapter 3: Cultivating a Culture of Innovation

As COO, it’s not just about keeping up; it’s about staying ahead in this fast-paced accounting world. Encouraging the team to embrace new technologies, explore creative solutions, and adapt to evolving client needs is paramount. The intersection of financial strength and technological advancements sets us up for sustainable growth and, more importantly, happy clients.

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey Ahead

So, what’s next? As the journey continues, being curious, embracing change, fostering teamwork, inspiring trust, and taking initiative will be the guiding values to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. I am eagerly looking forward to this new role, excited about the prospect of helping our firm seize opportunities, overcome challenges, and achieve its goals. Thanks for being a part of my journey, and here’s to the chapters yet to unfold!