UCS: Could you provide a brief overview of your career journey after graduating from the Kelley School of Business? What positions or roles have you held?

Jay: I have worked in public accounting my entire career; starting with small firms and now part of a national firm after two mergers. Career started with compliance tax and accounting as most do, before I decided to focus on healthcare which is primarily working with physician groups and dental offices in an advisory role, including real estate development as an Owner’s Representative/Project Manager.

UCS: What inspired you to pursue a career in your current industry? Was there a specific experience or moment that sparked your interest?

Jay: Quickest path to the CPA experience requirement. My passion is building a team internally and client service externally. Happy clients refer many opportunities and it grows year after year. Also allows our team to grow and take on bigger opportunities every year. Success solves a lot of problems.

UCS: How did your education at Kelley prepare you for your current role?

Jay: Kelley provides the theory for accounting while giving us some exposure to companies and professionals. Could not have asked for a better foundation to prepare me for a career in public accounting. From the people, to processes, to contacts, to opportunities, Kelley laid the foundation to build an incredible career.

UCS: What specific skills or knowledge from your Kelley education have been most valuable in your career?

Jay: The technical skills are important and really are taught extremely well at Kelley. However, there is so much more for a career. The “soft” but critical skills are necessary as well. Firms want well-rounded individuals who work well as part of a team. To do that today, you need to be technically proficient, but also work hard for your clients and well as a team within your firm.

UCS: Can you share a highlight or accomplishment from your professional journey that you are particularly proud of?

Jay: I started my own firm in 2005. I had 8 years of experience in public accounting, with 6 years focused in healthcare. I enjoyed the firm I was with and wanted to build something. This totally changed the trajectory of my career and the opportunities came fast and furious.

UCS: What advice would you give to current Kelley students who are considering a career in your industry?

Jay: Be a sponge. Your education is the best possible. Learn in the classroom, be a great teammate as part of your group work/projects. Meet as many people as you can. Be curious. Ask questions. Be willing to work hard and work smart. Get to know those you work with and continue to ask questions. Get a broad experience your first few years and find where your passion lies. Once you find your passion, it won’t feel as much like work. Make a difference for those you work with as well as your clients.

UCS: How has networking and building connections played a role in your career advancement? Any tips for students on effective networking?

Jay: It’s been so critical. Not just at Kelley, but well beyond Kelley. Get involved now and as you start your career, meet as many as possible. You just never know how closely people are connected. It’s no where near 6 degrees of separation. The more people you meet, the more you can help others and the more others can help you.

UCS: Have you pursued any further education or certifications since graduating from Kelley? If so, how have they contributed to your career growth?

Jay: I decided not to pursue any further education. I did complete my CPA designation within 2 years of graduating Kelley. Best decision I ever made!

UCS: In your opinion, what are the current trends or challenges in your industry that students should be aware of?

Jay: The typical firm is like a triangle. A lot of staff involved in the preparation, with about 1/2 the number of reviewers. Partners and leadership at the top of the triangle. It’s moving more to a “diamond” approach. AI and other technology advances will require a lot less preparers, but reviewers and advisors will be necessary to work at a critical level and provide solutions to client projects. When you add value to clients, you are always going to be in demand.

UCS: Can you describe a typical day or week in your current role? What are the main tasks and responsibilities you handle?

Jay: I love the variety of my career. Most of my time is spent with our staff or clients. Be in trainings and CPE, mentoring and developing staff to add value to our clients, or in meetings/calls/problem solving with our clients. Most of my time is client-facing, listening to challenges the physicians/dentists have, and how we can solve these issues. It’s an opportunity to add value. I also have the opportunity to bring staff along the way to help these clients. I’m responsible for bringing in new clients, and new revenue while also finding opportunities for our staff to grow in their own careers.

UCS: How do you maintain a work-life balance in a demanding industry? Any strategies or tips you would like to share?

Jay: It’s a challenge. But it’s important to me to have my career while also having a wonderful personal life. My wife and 2 sons have always been supportive of me and I’ve always found a way to repay that to them and allow them to be involved in what’s important to them. I’ve coached both of my sons for years and spent time volunteering with my wife and supporting her as a nurse. I’ve also volunteered on various Boards and committees through the years. It doesn’t always allow for a ton of “me time” but worth every bit of sacrifices to find the balance.

UCS: Is there anything else you would like to share with current Kelley students who are exploring different industries and career paths?

Jay: I would love to be a resource to talk with any students exploring a career in accounting, especially public accounting. While the industry has challenges, the upside is tremendous. You get flexibility in your career, while also having the opportunity to go so many different career directions, solving problems, and adding value while building a career for yourself and making a good living.