Interview with Amy Buben
In celebration of our many women leaders who have been instrumental in Yeo & Yeo’s success, we are proud to feature one of our remarkable leaders, Amy Buben, CPA, CFE.
For years, we have provided our professionals with a healthy work-life balance, supporting them in their efforts to effectively balance a growing career and fulfilling home life. Our total workforce is over 54% female and those in leadership positions exceed 50%. We are incredibly proud of our family-friendly culture and our ability to attract and retain women.
This is Amy’s perspective on her career, the importance of women in leadership, and her role in empowering other women professionally.
Q: Tell me about your career and your role at Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Advisors.
I joined Yeo & Yeo in 2006 after working as a controller for a Michigan manufacturer. Ten years later, I was leading the firm’s Manufacturing Services Group and was promoted to Principal. I oversee engagements for tax, financial reporting, and business consulting services. I am also a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) and have experience providing fraud examinations and internal control studies.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your career?
I love that not only am I able to help my clients with the tax and financial struggles they face, but I’m also able to train and build the next generation of advisors. I work with so many great people in our firm every day. I love helping staff understand the technically complicated areas of our job and watching them grow and use that knowledge when advising clients.
Q: What are the benefits of having women in leadership?
Women provide diverse and unique perspectives, which can lead to more innovative ideas and decision-making. Women also tend to lead with more empathy, a soft skill that can be missing in some organizations. Having women in leadership positions also inspires the next generation of female leaders. It breaks down stereotypes and creates room for a more inclusive and welcoming workplace culture that benefits everyone.
Q: How do you balance your career, personal life, and passions?
As an accountant, balance sometimes comes in different ways. During busy season, my family knows there isn’t much extra time for me to spend with them, so we make the most of the little moments. When busy season is over, we take time for family vacations and spend weekends at the lake. One of the things that I love most is the flexibility that my career offers me. I can take time when my family needs me and do what I enjoy.
Q: What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
Speak up! Ask questions if you have them, give guidance to those you can, and be your own advocate. Your voice is powerful, so use it.