The most recent class of the MACPA Leadership Academy came up wih eight powerful questions about the future of the CPA profession when they convened from Aug. 26-28, 2015.

It was the fifth Leadership Academy of its kind. Using our i2a: Insights to Action Strategic Thinking framework, the participants went through a series of exercises that included hindsight and the history of the profession, foresight and the emerging trends on the horizon, and insight around the current state. They then formed teams and created strategies to move forward and act.

They created some powerful questions designed to drive strategic thinking and action inside organizations and across our profession. The questions start with this: How will we ...

1. Create a proactive culture to enhance our relationships with clients as a strategic business partner?
2. Create a leadership program to boost confidence in young leaders by sharing knowledge and creating a relatable environment?
3. Engage all of our talent to solidify the future of the firm?
4. Develop expertise in emerging areas to earn client confidence and lifetime loyalty?
5. Provide better client service by creating a culture that values knowledge sharing, empowering people, engaging employees and unifying the team?
6. Adapt the work culture to the changes in the workforce by empowering employees, which increases retention and productivity while creating a unique culture?
7. Create a progressive work environment in which the business can thrive and foster an enriched personal life for our team members?
8. Allow the freedom to innovate, leave a quality impact, and create time to face other challenges while spurring growth and improved services and client relationships?

This was the output from the first day and a half as participants learned about strategic and critical thinking, collaboration, facilitation, innovation, creativity, and inspiration. The final day was about developing an authentic executive presence in themselves and others and discovering their unique strengths and values.

Imagine what our profession could become if we worked on just a few of these big ideas?

This group agreed to work together to update our first white paper on leadership in the profession, What Got You Here Won't Get You There.

Later this fall, we will be heading to Raleigh-Durham to teach at the AICPA Leadership Academy and to Richmond to put on the Virginia CPA Leadership Academy. The dates for next year's Leadership Academy have already been set for Aug. 24-26, 2016.

Contact Pam Devine at pam@blionline.org for information on how to bring the Leadership Academy to your firm or organization.