From Penn Station to Professional Excellence
Lara Abrash, chair of Deloitte US, has reached the pinnacle of the accounting profession through a journey that began with late-night homework sessions at Penn Station. According to reports, Abrash discovered her passion for accounting in middle school when she first balanced a set of books, a love that sustained her through long commutes from Long Island to New York City while pursuing her MBA at Baruch College.
Recognition and Industry Leadership
Sources indicate Abrash’s three-decade career at Deloitte has earned her numerous accolades, including Accounting Today’s Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting and CPA Practice Advisor’s Most Powerful Women in Accounting. Analysts suggest her community involvement with the Jackie Robinson Foundation and positions on the Center for Audit Quality Governing Board and Financial Accounting Foundation Board demonstrate her commitment to broader industry leadership.
CPA Expertise in Complex Financial Environment
The report states that Abrash emphasizes the critical role Certified Public Accountants play in maintaining financial integrity amid growing complexity. “CPAs have a demonstrated track record of strategic insight and ethical leadership in financial integrity, risk management, and data quality,” Abrash noted, according to sources. She reportedly believes CPAs’ unique skills position them to safeguard financial reporting in our increasingly data-driven world.
Empathy as Professional Advantage
Beyond technical expertise, Abrash brings vulnerability, empathy and compassion to client relationships, sources indicate. This approach was evident when she advised Wharton School graduates to “call your mom,” sharing how her mother’s support propelled her career. Analysts suggest this human-centered leadership style resonates in today’s professional landscape, where technology companies and corporate governance face increasing scrutiny.
Strategic Vision for Growth
Having held seven different positions during her Deloitte career, Abrash reportedly focuses on experiences rather than specific roles. The report states she advises professionals to consider “people I want to work with, things I want to learn, places I want to go” when planning their careers. This perspective comes as infrastructure demands and global procurement policies create new challenges for financial professionals.
Context in Evolving Markets
Abrash’s leadership at Deloitte coincides with significant industry transformations, including the expansion of AI technologies in business applications and ongoing market analysis debates. Sources indicate her emphasis on CPA expertise and ethical leadership provides stability amid these rapid changes, positioning accounting professionals as essential guides through economic uncertainty.
