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Firm Management

Elizabeth Pittelkow Kittner, CPA.CITP, CGMA, DTM – 2023 Most Powerful Women in Accounting

Jun. 06, 2023

Elizabeth Pittelkow Kittner, CPA.CITP, CGMA, DTM

2023 Most Powerful Women in Accounting
VP of Finance & Human Resources

http://gigaom.com

How do you envision the accounting profession evolving in the foreseeable future for women?

I envision the accounting profession becoming more diverse and inclusive, which will help women to achieve higher levels of leadership. We have more schedule flexibility in our work, including hybrid and remote options, which helps us balance work and personal tasks. Many firms are moving away from the billable hour and instead implementing value billing; this shift will help the accounting profession focus more on work outcomes instead of hours worked.

What advice would you give to women college students about preparing for a career in the accounting profession?

Accounting is one of the best professions in the world! Find women in the profession you look up to and follow them on social media. Introduce yourself to them and ask them questions about accounting and their career paths. Network with others working in the profession and follow-up with them. Read industry news found in publications like the Journal of Accountancy, CPA Practice Advisor, Accounting Today, state CPA society magazines, etc.

How would you advise accounting firms on how they can better attract, retain, and advance more women?

Accounting firms can promote women’s initiatives and other diversity, inclusion, and equity initiatives to create and sustain a welcoming culture. Firms can ensure they have parental leave policies in place and do not overlook people for promotion or job opportunities who take these leaves. Firms can check-in with the women in their firms to see what they need; they may want mentorship, training, and/or specific experiences to grow their careers. Additionally, firms should highlight women in leadership positions and give them opportunities to share their journeys to inspire others. When we see people in leadership, it is easy to see their successes, so when they share stories about their challenges, it helps give others encouragement that they can succeed through challenges, too.

What is your favorite professional mobile app, and why?

I am a fan of Trello to help me manage my own tasks and organize task boards with my teams. I appreciate receiving emails when my team members update the boards. The mobile app is helpful because it allows me to do most of what I can do on the desktop version.

What do you like to do when you have time away from work?

My favorite hobbies are playing board games and cycling with my family. I love to learn and enjoy refining my technical and strategic skills through conference sessions, reading, and writing. I enjoy playing sports like tennis, racquetball, badminton, basketball, and volleyball. I also love teaching kids about financial literacy and opportunities in accounting.

What are your favorite podcasts?

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Read more about the Most Powerful Women in Accounting.