By: Kim Ripberger, Chief People Officer and BRC DFK USA President
This article was originally featured in the February 2025 issue of the DFK Asia-Pacific Emerging Leaders Newsletter.
Do not fall into the trap of believing that leadership is about your own personal achievements, authority, and recognition. True leadership is about your team’s collective success —their growth and their accountability.
Shifting the Focus: From Self to Team
Leadership is not about being the smartest person in the room; it is about creating an environment where your team can thrive. In our profession’s fast-paced and detail-oriented world, you, as a leader, must prioritize your team dynamics over your personal ego. This mindset fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and resilience, leading to superior service for your firm’s clients and organizational success.
Accountability: The Backbone of Team Success
Holding both yourself as a leader and your team accountable is crucial, but accountability should never be confused with blame. It is about setting clear expectations, providing the necessary resources, and consistently following up on progress. Effective leaders create a space where accountability is viewed as a pathway to both personal and professional growth rather than a punitive measure.
Being a leader is a journey. Remember to embrace the reality that leadership is not about you; instead, it is about fostering a high-performing, accountable team. By shifting focus from self to team and holding individuals accountable in a constructive manner, you can cultivate a culture of excellence, integrity, and continuous improvement.
Kimberly Jessup Ripberger CPA, Chief People Officer, Assurance Partner
Kimberly is an assurance partner at BRC with more than 21 years in public accounting. She serves as Partner in Charge of BRC’s Raleigh office. Kim’s previous experience included working in Industry in process improvement and project management. She works primarily with clients involved in the governmental, nonprofit and affordable housing industries, including tax […]
