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Our people grew too . “ People ” is our primary focus for a reason , so it ’ s no surprise that I ’ m particularly proud of the investments we ’ ve made in this area last year . Here at Rea , we are intentional when it comes to investing in the professional development of our individuals and teams . After all , when our people grow , their impact on our clients and firm is incredible .
One of the most significant investments we made last year was to tap one of our outstanding principals , Annie Yoder ( New Philadelphia ), to serve as Rea ’ s first-ever director of development . In this role , she oversees the firm ’ s training , development and succession planning strategies . Annie previously worked full-time on Rea ’ s government team , but her passion for development and professional growth was evident . As a result , she was asked to lead others on the Rea team in their career pursuits . Since stepping into the role , Annie has helped revamp the performance evaluation process while actively managing The Rea Academy – Rea ’ s own learning and development program focused on technical , leadership and soft skills training . Still an active practitioner , she will continue to make a full transition into the director of development role .
Looking ahead , we are excited to launch training for our client service specialist ( CSS ) team under the direction of Rea ’ s director of accounting services , Heather McNichols ( New Philadelphia ). The talents and expertise of our CSS team in providing bookkeeping and payroll services are essential to meeting our clients ’ needs and the growth of our firm . So to keep their skills sharp , Heather is working to ensure they receive the right training and guidance .
With 13 offices across the state of Ohio , improved communication emerged as a top priority for our leadership team . We welcomed Abigail Eisenbrei ( New Philadelphia ) as our internal communications specialist to maintain open lines of communication across the firm regarding our business growth , strategic direction , accomplishments and client relationships . Abigail is helping to educate , empower and engage our people .
Helping Rea to strategically expand our team is Desirée Lyon ( Dublin ), our new talent acquisition specialist . Her work ensures we have the best talent to serve our clients and support the firm .
This is just a short list of Rea ’ s new team members in 2017 . While they ’ re not all mentioned by name , they all significantly contribute to the firm , and I ’ m thrilled for us to begin another year working together .
We gave credit where credit was due .
Our accomplishments wouldn ’ t be possible without the enthusiasm and passion of our people . Since launching the Excellence Awards last year to thank those who make extraordinary contributions to the firm or a client , we recognized more than 50 professionals . Each honoree received a monetary bonus and firm recognition for going above and beyond to improve a process , serve a client and pursue career growth . Professionals at every level were awarded , highlighting how each employee is essential to Rea ’ s success .
Rea ’ s priorities are clear . In completing my first official year as CEO , I can report back to you that these last 12 months have been an exciting learning experience for myself and the Rea team . We launched new initiatives to support our people , implemented impactful change and worked to drive growth for our clients . Throughout the year ’ s journey , one very important truth remained consistent and clear in the fabric of our work : Rea is committed to its strategic vision , and our people and clients are at the top of the priority list .
With this in mind , I ’ m looking forward to making more waves in the year ahead .
Sincerely ,
Don McIntosh , CPA Chief Executive Officer ( 2017-present ) Rea & Associates
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