Laura Felice, CPA, CGMA, on Navigating Change, the Importance of Community and How You Can Get Involved with MassCPAs
By Laura Felice, CPA, CGMA
As finance and accounting professionals, we are living and working in dynamic times. Our industry is at the forefront of changes – changes in the way we work and changes in the way we ensure work-life balance. Changes in technology as we define how advancements like artificial intelligence (AI) will impact our field. Potential changes in tax policy, and changes in the education, training and licensing of future finance and accounting professionals.
It's a great time to be a part of MassCPAs, which is helping our 11,500 members navigate these changes.
My career path might look a little different from many of yours, and to me, that illustrates the power of belonging to a society like MassCPAs. I began my career with PwC LLP working with retail and consumer product companies. From there, I made the transition to industry –first at Clark’s, the iconic shoe company, where I eventually served as senior vice president of Clark’s America.
In 2016, I joined BJ’s Wholesale Club as controller, just as the company was beginning its transformation into a growth company. At BJ’s, I was
The article is authored by or features a MassCPAs member or staff person.
fortunate to be a part of the team that launched a successful initial public offering (IPO) – truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. In 2021, I was named CFO.
Throughout every step of my career, MassCPAs played a key role in my development and growth. The committees, events, mentoring, service days and educational opportunities have given me an unwavering sense of community.
This was particularly important when I made the transition to industry.
I’ll always remember attending Cradles to Crayons volunteer events, where the accounting firms would all be represented with teams. As for me, I would often show up as the lone representative of my company and was always welcomed and invited to join an existing team. As a result, I met new people, networked and built meaningful relationships that have lasted years.
This is why I encourage all of you to get involved in the MassCPAs organization. Last year we had over 1,500 volunteers. My challenge to everyone this year is that we surpass that by 20%. The challenge is simple – show up to an event, volunteer to be a mentor. MassCPAs provides a sense of community for members who are at any stage of their career. I’m thrilled to help lead an organization that is committed to helping members navigate the ever-changing accounting landscape as they grow their careers.
It’s an honor to work alongside Zach to help our members learn, connect and prosper. I look forward to working with him and the team as we focus on helping organizations with their leadership development opportunities, staying current with emerging technologies and managing the increasing complexity of work for licensed CPAs.
Beyond this, MassCPAs fosters an environment where members can help nurture the next generation of accounting professionals through our expanded mentorship program and volunteer opportunities for young professionals to engage with our student members. We’re excited to launch new programs to help members meet the challenges that face our community in the coming year. Whatever your career path looks like, MassCPAs offers ways for you to get involved, develop your skills and build relationships –in addition to so many other rewarding opportunities.
Laura Felice, CPA, CGMA is executive vice president and CFO of BJ's Wholesale Club and 2024-2025 MassCPAs board chair.
ARising Star
Aurelia Damiani, CPA
urelia Damiani, CPA, is an audit senior associate at Crowe LLP. Read on to learn how getting involved with MassCPAs early in her career has played a significant role in her journey, her motivations behind pursuing the CPA designation, her favorite way to de-stress and more.
How has being a MassCPAs Firm Ambassador impacted you professionally?
This role has given me the opportunity to be an advocate for both my firm and the accounting profession, fostering meaningful connections across various professional service sectors in an engaging manner. It also serves as a platform for mutual learning and growth, where I can offer support to colleagues within my firm, guiding them towards the supportive network that MassCPAs offers.
What initially motivated you to join the Young Professionals Committee?
Initially, the Young Professionals Committee seemed particularly relevant to me as a recent graduate. Engaging with this committee has proven invaluable, offering a platform to connect with peers who are navigating similar life stages. Participating in committee activities has also fostered the exchange of questions, advice and insights.
I’m a CPA because…
I wanted to further my knowledge and understanding of accounting overall. I found that having these three letters opened doors and added
value to my work. As a CPA, it’s been rewarding to better serve my clients and engage in more in-depth topics.
What is the most important attribute you bring to your job?
Being a team player and showing a curiosity about learning. It’s also helpful being open to taking on new projects and lending a hand whenever needed.
What’s your go-to way to unwind and recharge?
Exploring local coffee shops and spending time with friends and family.
Guilty pleasure:
Jamming out to music on long car rides with my windows down!
K now someone up-and-coming in the profession? Nominate them by emailing Hannah Naranjo at hnaranjo@masscpas.org or by visiting masscpas.org/risingstar
CPA Pathways
Michael Meehan, CPA, PFS, CFP®
Michael Meehan, CPA, PFS, CFP ® , is senior vice president, client advisor and shareholder at TFC Financial Management, Inc., a boutique wealth management firm in Boston. Read on to learn about his background, his decision to transition to industry and the role MassCPAs played in his professional development.
Take us through your background. How did you arrive at your current role?
I was at BNY Mellon Wealth Management for almost 20 years when an opportunity presented itself to join TFC Financial Management – a boutique wealth management firm – as a senior wealth advisor. The pandemic was an interesting time to make a transition, but it went surprisingly well. It’s hard to believe I’ve been here for four years.
What made you decide to transition from public accounting to industry?
I started my career at Grant Thornton LLP, spending time in both the audit and tax departments in the 1990s. I remain friends with some of my coworkers from that time, which speaks to the camaraderie and bonds that were made working in public accounting. A former manager and another colleague left to join a Boston banking and investment firm and recruited me to join them. It was perfect timing as I wanted to gain experience in private industry.
How has your involvement with MassCPAs’ Taxation Committee impacted your career?
It definitely played a role in both my interest in the wealth planning industry and growth as a professional. I was a member of the former Personal
Financial Planning Committee at MassCPAs for many years and had tremendous exposure to smart, passionate and influential CPAs who either had their own wealth management practices or included those services in their CPA practices. It was a great forum for me, as an aspiring wealth manager. I played the role of a sponge very well and built some great connections with people who were willing to share advice and help me build my network.
What’s
the best financial advice you’ve received?
Coming out of college, my friends and I all thought that we could beat the market. While I was pursuing my masters in personal financial planning at Bentley University (I am a “double Falcon”), I learned that investing was a long-game, and the key was to be disciplined and stick to a plan. That has turned out to be the best advice for me both personally and when working with clients.
If you weren’t in the financial industry, what do you think you’d be doing instead?
I would do something sports related. Having coached each of my four children in various sports, I know how big the youth sports industry is, with parents constantly trying to give their kids an edge with general fitness and sports-specific training. There are business models out there that capture that passion and would provide solid careers for many.
What is on your bucket list?
Someday I would love to catch a blue marlin, known to be one of the most sought-after prized game fish. To be able to battle such an elusive fish that can grow up to 14 feet long and weigh 2,000 pounds would be a dream come true. For now, I will continue to troll along in my kayak and hope to land some striped bass this year!
Know a MassCPAs member we should feature? Contact Hannah Naranjo at hnaranjo@masscpas.org .
Member Spotlight
Mitzi Keating, CPA, CFE
Mitzi Keating, CPA, CFE, is partner and founder of cannabis advisory services at Citrin Cooperman & Company LLP. Read on to learn about how the Society has benefited her professionally, her unique role within the accounting industry, her passion for music and more.
What initially interested you in accounting?
My father’s 55-year tenure as a college math professor influenced my decision to major in math. I pivoted to accounting during business school, intrigued by its application of mathematical concepts in a practical setting. Over time, my interest grew, especially as I’ve explored various facets within the field.
How has your involvement with MassCPAs helped your career?
I’ve been a member since college and being part of the Society has continuously enriched my career journey. Initially, I benefited from attending CPE sessions and networking at social events. As my career progressed, I became more involved by joining committees and speaking at Society events. I also seized the opportunity to volunteer at high school career fairs, aiming to spark interest in the profession.
How did you get involved in cannabis advisory? What excites you about it?
My interest came from my local political roots, when I was elected to the board of selectmen in my hometown back in 2014. At the time, Massachusetts had legalized cannabis for medical
purposes and prospective business owners would need to come before the board to obtain local approval to apply for a license. It soon became apparent that there were few service providers willing to work with these businesses. They needed accounting, consulting and business guidance, and I saw a great opportunity to start something new.
What emerging trends do you see impacting businesses in the next few years?
I’ve always had a passion for problem-solving with numbers, and I’ve found the perfect fit in forensic accounting and the cannabis sector. As a CPA and CFE, I’ve noticed a shift towards a deeper understanding of the ‘whys’ behind the numbers, particularly with the rise of AI and automation. By embracing technology and sharpening our skills as interpreters and troubleshooters, accounting professionals can stay ahead in combating fraud and shaping the future of accounting.
Music seems like a real passion. How did it become such a big part of your life?
I have a passion for exploration and learning. From playing clarinet since fifth grade to embracing music alongside my husband, a lifelong musician and attorney, we’ve ventured into open mic nights and beyond. While our musical backgrounds differ, our shared love for trying new things has led us to autocross racing, jewelry making, pottery and simply relishing each other’s company. Balancing work and fun is vital, especially with five kids between us. We strive to set a good example, showing them the importance of enjoying life to the fullest.
K now a member we should spotlight? Contact Hannah Naranjo at hnaranjo@masscpas.org or nominate them at masscpas.org/memberspotlight .
