“leadership and culture define the future of accounting firms.”
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accounting arc
with donny shimamoto.
center for accounting transformation
when angie grissom first stepped into a nashville-based consulting firm, she likely didn’t foresee owning and transforming it. yet, over two decades later, she leads the rainmaker companies, a firm dedicated to empowering accounting professionals through leadership development, business growth strategies, and culture-building initiatives.
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“selling is helping,” grissom says in accounting arc. “business development is about uncovering opportunities and serving clients holistically. it’s about being a true advisor.”
grissom’s team trains firms to think beyond traditional services, emphasizing holistic solutions that cater to clients’ broader needs. “accountants are often the most trusted advisors,” she explains. “they help businesses survive and thrive.”
host donny shimamoto, cpa.citp, cgma, the founder and managing director of intraprisetechknowlogies llc and founder and inspiration architect for the center for accounting transformation, praises grissom for her insights, noting the importance of elevating the perception of the accounting profession. “it’s inspiring to see how angie highlights the dynamic and impactful side of what we do,” shimamoto says.
grissom’s entrepreneurial spirit began as a child, creating businesses in her room. “i always knew i wanted to be in business,” she shares. after starting at the front desk of a consulting firm, she quickly advanced, eventually buying the company. today, she applies her firm’s growth strategies to its own development, expanding the team and delegating leadership responsibilities.
despite her success, grissom acknowledges her greatest challenge: balancing opportunity with focus. “i get excited about opportunities and sometimes take on too much,” she admits. however, recent hires have enabled her to concentrate on her highest contributions.
grissom emphasizes the need for strong leaders in accounting. “there’s so much opportunity,” she says. “find what you’re passionate about and lean into it. this profession needs visionary people to guide the way forward.”
her message resonates deeply with young professionals and students, illustrating how accounting is not just about numbers but about solving problems, leading businesses, and making a meaningful impact.
10 key takeaways
- business development is about holistic growth, not just sales.
- accountants serve as trusted advisors, guiding clients through complex challenges.
- the accounting profession offers diverse, exciting opportunities beyond traditional roles.
- strong leadership and culture are critical for firm success.
- collaboration with external vendors can bring transformative value to clients.
- delegation is vital for personal and organizational growth.
- opportunities in accounting extend to niche areas and unique industries.
- creativity and an abundance mindset help firms grow sustainably.
- building trust with clients is essential for impactful advisory services.
- the profession needs visionary leaders to navigate generational transitions.