Advice for a Successful Career in the Accounting Profession

CHAPTER SIXThe Profession’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Journey

Key Takeaway

There has never been a better time for women, people of color and other underrepresented groups to pursue a career in the accounting profession.

The bad news for women and members of racial or ethnic minorities considering careers in accounting is that the profession has not historically been a leader in creating opportunities and career paths for them. As a result, there are not as many partners, CFOs, and professionals in leadership roles from these demographic groups as there should be. The good news is that the profession is painfully aware of its less‐than‐stellar performance in this area and has made strides in recent years in addressing the issue. This is particularly true of the largest firms, all of which have publicly embraced a commitment to diversity and inclusion as a top strategic priority. As a result, I believe there has never been a better time for a woman or an ethnic minority to be entering the profession.

Recruitment and Retention

For decades, the profession has recruited men and women in largely equal numbers. Unfortunately, there was not as much focus on retention programs. Often, women who were good at what they did, but wanted to start a family, would leave when that time came with little or no discussion by their employers of flex programs, sabbaticals, or part‐time arrangements. ...