A Return to the TOP: CalCPA Member Michael Savoy Takes the Helm at the CBA--Again.

PositionQ & A - Interview

CPA Michael Savoy has taken the top spot at the California Board of Accountancy and we took the opportunity to see what's on the agenda for his second tour as president.

Congratulations on being elected CBA president. What are some of things California CPAs will see from the CBA this year?

First, we continue to maintain our focus on protecting consumers by ensuring only qualified licensees practice public accountancy in accordance with established professional standards.

This year, the CBA is laying the groundwork to upgrade the technology that supports our licensing and enforcement processes. We will share more with the profession on this as those technology solutions come into focus. In addition, we are working to implement the acceptance of credit card payments with renewal applications.

Another priority is our preparations for Sunset Review in 2019. Every few years, the legislature reviews each board thai regulates various professions in California to determine its effectiveness at protecting consumers. To begin the process, the CBA is preparing a report of its activity over the past few years and will discuss issues that impact the CBA's operations.

This is your eighth year on the CBA and second stint as president. What have you learned over your years of service?

One of the biggest things I have learned is that change does not happen overnight. Being on the board for as long as I have has given me tremendous insight as to how things happen in California, from proposing a solution to a situation to the enactment of a law to effectuate that change. It's not a bad process, but it is a time consuming one. I also continue to be blown away by the professionals who are both on the board and work at the CBA. It has been a pleasure working beside these individuals and seeing their continued dedication to the job and the professionalism that they continuously exhibit.

In addition to serving on the CBA, you remain active as a partner in your firm, Gumbiner Savett Inc. What are some of the biggest challenges facing CPA firms?

One of the biggest and continuing challenges facing CPA firms today is recruiting new talent into the profession to replace the retiring baby boomers. The 150-hour requirement for licensure has meant an extra year of education for lots of students, which has reduced the pool of prospective candidates. Another challenging area is being able to adapt to new technology, which should have a significant impact on the profession...

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