As the holiday season encourages us to reflect and celebrate, we’re shining a light on the remarkable leaders shaping the future of accounting through our inaugural AG NEXT Accelerate program. Designed to develop strategic leaders who drive their firms’ growth, talent pipelines, and vision, the program has already sparked transformative growth among its first cohort.

In this first installment of our ‘Tis the Season to Lead series, we’re featuring Matt Rowley, Partner at Wipfli. A trailblazer in the firm’s technology consulting practice, Matt has led the charge in product innovation and client service transformation, all while driving meaningful growth for his firm.

Read on to learn more about Matt’s leadership journey, his experience with AG NEXT Accelerate, and his vision for the future of leadership in accounting.

What’s the biggest misconception about leadership in accounting today, and how do you see yourself challenging that?

I think there are many misconceptions about leadership in accounting today, including expectations around being a CPA and climbing the partnership ladder.  The reality is that the profession needs leaders with diverse backgrounds at all levels and with the ability to inspire talent and connect with clients.  This type of leader needs strong interpersonal skills and the ability to move strategic ideas into action, both within the firm and in delivering value to clients.

When you look back at the moment you decided to pursue leadership, was there a particular experience or person who shaped that choice?

Absolutely.  We have an opportunity to learn from so many influences in our lives, from childhood to professional settings.  For me, it started with my parents’ challenge to strive for my full potential.  When I entered the workforce, I was lucky enough to find and latch on to a few different mentors that helped quickly expand my scope of perspective and expectations of leadership.  Seeking out and developing relationships with mentors should be a key focus for any developing leader.

AG Accelerate is ultimately about accelerating your vision, impact, and success—what’s one personal challenge or breakthrough that AG Accelerate has helped you with so far?

This development program has given me the tools to unlock and elevate my leadership potential with specific areas of focus and action.  Specifically, it has taught me skills to communicate clear performance expectations to my downline leaders as well as given me tools to manage up to help drive alignment and clarity of goals.  I’m very confident using these skills moving forward will help me drive tangible results for my firm.

In a world that’s rapidly automating, what human quality do you believe is essential for the future of leadership, and how do you nurture that in yourself?

I think human connection and empathy will be constant in this world of evolving technology.  Automation and AI should be looked at as additive solutions to improve efficiency and productivity.  If we can embrace that mindset and approach, there is a place for resource investments to evolve contributions and leverage with these technological advancements.

What advice would you give to others considering joining AG Accelerate?

I’d recommend you bring an open mind to both new ideas presented and topics where you may already have awareness.  Engage in conversation with fellow peers who may have other perspectives on topics, as there is always room to learn and hear other experiences.  Your ability to listen, learn, apply new ideas, and take some educated risks is the new currency in this evolving technical and economic landscape.

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Matt’s insights highlight the importance of adaptability, mentorship, and empathy in driving meaningful leadership within a rapidly evolving profession. His journey through AG NEXT Accelerate showcases the transformative power of investing in leadership development, not just for individual growth but for the success of an entire firm.

If Matt’s story resonated with you or sparked new ideas, connect with him on LinkedIn to continue the conversation and gain further inspiration.