Most Innovative Accountancy Firms of 2016, the USA
In addition to receiving annual functional and/ or industry-related training, our professionals are empowered to make decisions related to client needs locally rather than moving issues up through a complex chain of command. This ensures that our staff remains engaged with the client, actively listens throughout the engagement, and takes responsibility for results. In the United States, Grant Thornton has been consistently recognised as an employer of choice, receiving honours and awards such as the following: • “Top Company for Executive Women” (NAFE, 2016); • “Top 100 Most Attractive Employers” (Universum, 2016); • “Best Places to Work” (Crain’s Chicago Business, 2013 and 2016); • “Best Accounting Firms to Work For” and “Accounting 50” (Vault.com, 2011–16); • Working Mother’s “Best Companies” (2006–15)
Future Challenges One of the biggest challenges in the accounting industry is finding qualified talent. Demand for top accounting professionals is likely to remain steady as a result of ongoing regulatory compliance requirements and increased workloads. The shortage of qualified people to hire is a concern, especially as those in senior roles near retirement age. Finding and hiring talented professionals is key for Grant Thornton to continue to provide distinctive client service and keep up with the high demands of clients.
Grant Thornton supports work/life balance and offers state-of-the-art office spaces, a “businessappropriate” dress policy, and a high-quality benefits package. We were also the first of the top ten accounting firms to launch “Flexible Time Off,” or “FTO,” a system where employees and their managers work together to develop the time-off plans that make the most sense given that employee’s individual needs and the needs of the business – instead of a predetermined set of paid time off (PTO) days like traditional PTO policies.
Grant Thornton is committed to a culture of trust and empowerment – as well as one of collaboration and professional development – and we endeavour to put people first and emphasise the need for our employees to bring their “whole selves” to work.
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