From the CEO: Future-forward leaders, by design

By Stephanie Peters, CAE

We talk a lot at the VSCPA about the changing business landscape, how technology will affect accountants, workplace trends, and other drivers of change. But what do we need to tackle these forces? Empathic, well-trained, future-thinking leaders.

Over the past year, we’ve offered a wide range of programming on leadership and professional development — most of it free.  Virtual events like the Leaders’ Summit, Workplace of the Future Summit, and Mental Health Summit all offered content to help you develop and hone your leadership skills in remote work management, navigating change, inclusion and more.

We specifically targeted emerging leaders and young professionals with the well-received CPA Leadership Essentials course in November, which taught attendees about business communication, management tips, cultivating success, and leading with empathy. The Elevate & Engage online series, developed and implemented by the Young Professionals Advisory Council, held webinars on board service and building your personal brand.

The Women’s Leadership Series and Forum offered women leaders and their advocates a space to connect and network while tackling topics like agility, entrepreneurship, authenticity and resilience.

So, what’s the why behind all this programming? 

We’re hearing from firm partners, corporate finance leaders and other members about how important these skills truly are in an uncertain world. With increased reliance on AI, machine learning and technological advances, people skills are paramount. We need empathetic, authentic, courageous leaders as ambassadors of the accounting profession.

Our new fiscal year begins May 1, and we’re planning our programs now. While we may sunset some, we could begin others. We will continue to offer programming for a variety of audiences, both in person and virtual.

We want to hear from you! What topics would you like to see covered in our webinars, seminars and articles? Feel free to send your ideas to Jill Edmonds, VSCPA senior director of marketing and communications. We’re always adding to our content strategy and your feedback is needed and appreciated.

Stephanie Peters, CAE, has served as the VSCPA's president and CEO since 2007.