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?

Kevin: I started out at a local public accounting firm in Indianapolis (L.M. Henderson & Company) and worked there for four years. Learned very quickly about lots of different kinds of business and worked in audit. Then really needed a firm with more resources to support my ability to develop business, so I moved up-market to Somerset CPAs and am still working there today. We sold our partnership to CBIZ back in February of 2023. I also transitioned from the audit practice to the advisory practice and now ultimately am in the tax practice leading the High Net Worth group for our Central Region within CBIZ.

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

Kevin: I had a phenomenal accounting teacher at Carmel High School that was so engaging and made it fun and digestible. She is what really piqued my interest into public accounting.

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

Kevin: Kelley made me work in group environments with people of all kinds of backgrounds and that propelled me much faster than my peers from other schools. The real-life scenarios and problem-solving mentality that went along with our case studies and projects is so practical and I call on those experiences often in my professional life even today.

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

Kevin: Same as previous. Ability to work with a team and problem-solve.

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

Kevin: Making partner with Somerset CPAs when I was 33 years old.

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

Kevin: Consider that accounting is the language of business. Public accounting gives you an unmatched background with which you can then delve into any other aspect of business seamlessly. It allows you to see inside other businesses, entrepreneurs, etc. and solve problems that will help you in any future endeavors.

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

Kevin: Absolutely. Building a network has been second-nature to me and has greatly propelled my career as a result. Growing up in central Indiana and still residing here has made a large impact as well. Indianapolis is a large city but feels very small when it comes to making connections or helping clients solve problems.

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

Kevin: I am a CPA. It is essentially mandatory in public accounting to obtain. I would highly recommend completing the coursework and passing the exams before or sooner after becoming employed to ease the burden of studying and also working full-time.

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

Kevin: It is becoming increasingly challenging for small and mid-sized firms to compete in the public accounting arena because of the costs associated with investment in technology, AI, and off-shoring. Be looking ahead when you are choosing a firm where you will invest substantial time, effort, etc. and be sure that they have a great plan of how to compete for years to come.

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

Kevin: I spend a lot of my day on the phone, answering emails, texting with clients, etc. I try to always be available and be proactive with client communication as well. We do our best to add as much value to clients as possible and that is a full-time job!

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

Kevin: I try my best to spend undivided attention with my wife and sons after work. I try to pick-up our sons every day and spend the next 2-3 hours with them playing, having dinner, and getting ready for bed. We also try to plan to do fun activities on the weekends and get that quality time together. Family is very important to me and comes before everything else.

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

Kevin: Take advantage of every opportunity that Kelley and Bloomington have to offer you – and don’t forget to have fun!