TSCPA’s First LEAD Program for Emerging Professionals a Success

On Dec. 9-11, TSCPA hosted 25 emerging accounting professionals for the society’s first Leadership, Empowerment and Accelerated Development (LEAD) Program. Designed for accounting professionals 35 years old and younger, the program empowered participants to excel in their current roles, with an eye toward helping them advance to the next level in their careers.

The program’s content focused on the unique considerations of leading in accounting and finance environments. Led by Jon Lokhorst, leadership coach, corporate trainer, keynote speaker and the author of “Mission-Critical Leadership: How Smart Managers Lead Well in All Directions,” participants spent the three-day workshop exploring their individual leadership styles and working to enhance skills like emotional intelligence, communication and delegation. They also had the opportunity to outline their own vision, purpose, mission and values as a leader.

The in-person, immersive program provided a peer-to-peer learning environment, as well as social opportunities to network and build connections outside the formal workshop time. Additionally, participants were offered practical follow-up tools for their supervisors to apply the learning experience to the attendee’s specific needs. Participants also have the opportunity to attend a bonus virtual session with Lokhorst approximately 30 days after the event for a follow-up on progress and to troubleshoot real-time leadership challenges.

Participants shared they received value from the program and that they appreciated learning from Lokhorst, who worked as a CPA for 30-plus years and now organizes tailored leadership programs for a variety of organizations through his company, Your Best Leadership LLC. One attendee stated, “Jon was truly knowledgeable and had the expertise to know how accountants need leadership. I can't wait to read his book!” A second participant echoed, “Jon was fantastic in his approach to this program. His knowledge and preparation on the topic was very evident, and it made for a great conference.”

TSCPA member and LEAD Program participant Davis Dyer shared how the program benefited him as an emerging leader in his organization. "The young professional career begins as an out-of-college individual contributor, but it quickly progresses into leading a team in your organization. I've found this to be the case for myself, where I'm now leading an accounting department that is diverse and requires leadership in various ways. The innovations in our profession will come and go, but the consistent engine of any organization is people. This conference was perfect to learn about my leadership style and train my focus on how to lead others better."

The LEAD Program was open to TSCPA members and nonmembers, and applications were accepted through Nov. 1. Participants were able to earn 16 hours of Personal Development Continuing Professional Education credits upon completion of the program.

The following emerging accounting professionals participated in the 2024 LEAD Program: