How did you get into corporate tax technology? I landed a job as a tax assistant for Air Liquide, which I considered my first ‘real job’ after school. I helped prepare tax returns and manage multiple software programs for the legal and tax departments. I discovered I loved the combination of tax accounting and technology.
When the IRS went electronic in 2006, I was using Corptax, which was the best software out there, so I was ahead of the game. When Corptax moved their platform to a .net version, I knew I wanted to be a part of an innovative company that would enable tax accountants to streamline their processes and change the world of corporate tax.
What do you like best about your job? Helping users understand all the things technology can do to make their lives better. It’s gratifying to see clients reduce stress and boost performance all at the same time.
Can you share a best-kept secret about Corptax software? Sure—direct access to any data, including entity attributes. In fact, you can directly access anything you are using to report data with any of the analytical tools available today.
What’s the most rewarding thing about working at Corptax? The family dynamic. We all care passionately about making products that help our clients succeed, and that’s very unifying.
What are you learning now, and why is it important? I’m learning the ins and outs of tax changes for international compliance and about our Next Generation forms. TCJA affects companies with international businesses the hardest.
Name something—big or small—that you’re really good at? Making people smile.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Never stop learning and accepting change.
What lesson has your work life taught you? Do a job you really like. For me, when I do my job well, it helps a lot of clients—and colleagues, too. That’s very motivating and satisfying.
How has the field changed in the last 5 years? Automation for sure. We live in a world where ‘instant gratification’ is expected, thanks to smart technology and hand-held devices. Our clients want the ability to analyze data instantly and see results immediately without roadblocks or delays.
What opportunities do you see developing in the next 5 years? More automation in workflows with BOTS and RPA. The majority of a tax professional’s work will center around analyzing data instead of performing manual, repetitive tasks.
Who is someone you admire and why? Mr. Rogers! His program helped all kids realize they were special in some way and provided a sanctuary where they could feel love and learn ways to deal with tough situations and feelings. He overcame the odds when Congress was trying to slash budgeting for public television programming by convincing the committee to approve $20 million in funding.
