Sara Lord
RSM US LLP
Minneapolis, MN USA
"To me success isn't about being the best at only one thing, it's about living the best whole life."
Career Roadmap
Sara's work combines: Business, Education, and Problem Solving
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Minot High School
Bachelor's Degree
Accounting
University of North Dakota
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be an Accountants and Auditors:
Bachelor's Degree: Accounting
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Life & Career Milestones
My path in life has been direct
1.
Started at Big 4 firm as intern in 1997 and full time in 1998 based in Minneapolis, MN. Worked in audit client service.
2.
Participated in national office rotation program starting in 2001 - relocated to Connecticut. Had first child when transitioning back to client service and returned to Minnesota.
3.
Transitioned to telecommute arrangement with national office on flexible work schedule in 2004. Continued on flexible work arrangement for 5 years, while having two more children.
4.
In 2006, transitioned to global regulatory and public policy role, based in Minneapolis, but travel as needed.
5.
In 2009 joined regional firm in a national office and client service role. Returned to full-time schedule. Re-engaged in AICPA volunteer work in 2011 on Technical Issues Committee.
6.
Joined RSM as partner in national office audit department in 2012. Became National Director of Assurance services in 2015 and Chief Auditor in 2019.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Peers:
You can't have it all at once. You need to choose between work and your family. This often includes people (typically well intended) telling you how you should balance things and what they think your successful life should look like.
How I responded:
I look for support from people who's values align with mine and who can provide me personal feedback based on our relationship (e.g., parents, husband, children, close co-workers, friends). This provides me the confidence to have it all, which I believe is possible. It also helps to identify when life or work feels unbalanced and know that both have the flexibility to adjust when needed. To me success isn't about being the best at only one thing, it's about living the best whole life.