Before becoming the firm’s first Chief Talent Officer, Ambassador Tricia Wilson—a certified forensic CPA—laid the foundation for what has evolved into the firm’s fraud and forensic accounting practice, a service offering that continues to flourish today. We caught up with Tricia at her home in Charleston, South Carolina.
Tricia, you spearheaded what today has evolved into the Fraud and Forensic Accounting practice at Forvis Mazars. How did that come about?
Well, I can tell you it wasn’t planned. Years ago, I was working in tax, focused primarily on business valuations. One day, I got a call from an attorney handling the divorce of a couple who owned a large business. I was asked to attend the mediation hearing and, frankly, didn’t know what a mediation hearing looked like or what to expect. But I was astounded by the inaccuracy of the information being given to the couple concerning their finances, tax consequences, and such. It seemed to me like a lawsuit waiting to happen.
So what did you do?
I saw an unfulfilled niche and began thinking of what role I could play. So, I met with a number of attorneys and asked if they would be open to someone helping them from the financial side. And things just spiraled upward from there. I jumped in feet first, and within a year, that’s all I was doing. Our services soon grew to include merger and litigation support, and we built quite a team. I attribute the success of the practice to the amazing people who raised their hand and said, “I want to help.”
In 2021, you were asked to fill the shoes of Effin Logue, the firm’s Chief People Officer. That’s quite a jump from forensics, isn’t it?
It certainly is, and I admit I took on the role somewhat reluctantly. When Effin announced her retirement, I was a Regional Managing Partner of [a legacy firm of Forvis Mazars] DHG Mid-Atlantic Region and also on the Senior Leadership Team. As the team contemplated what we wanted in a new Chief Talent Officer, we determined that, to truly advance our people-forward strategy, we needed a senior leader in the role. I recall telling Matt Snow, “I don’t know what you’re thinking. I’m an accountant, not an HR expert.”
But you took the job nonetheless …
I did. One of the most important things the firm taught me was to not be afraid to say “yes,” even if you don’t know what you’re getting into. And I’ve made my share of mistakes along the way. But thanks to the incredible support of my colleagues, serving as Chief Talent Officer was one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career.
During your tenure as CTO, the firm became much more focused on its alumni. What’s the objective?
Well, first, I was super excited when the alumni discussions started. I absolutely believe strong alumni relationships make the firm’s people culture only stronger. They provide our alumni with opportunities to reconnect, network, get CPE, and keep informed about firm happenings. And for current employees, I think it creates a sense of excitement and belonging to something bigger. I’m very excited the firm will soon launch a new Alumni Network platform that will make staying connected and informed even easier.
What’s a favorite memory or accomplishment you’re particularly proud of?
Oh, there are so many great memories. Accomplishment-wise, after making the pivot to forensic accounting, I’m proud to have helped launch the firm’s wellness program. I’m convinced people do their best work when they feel good. I’m a bit of a fitness fanatic, and raising people’s awareness around health and fitness makes a huge difference.
How are you better because of Forvis Mazars?
I’m better in a lot of ways because the firm allowed me—encouraged me—to pursue what I wanted to do and be exactly who I wanted to be. I like to say I had six different careers all at the same firm. And in each role, even if I wasn’t confident in my abilities, I always felt respected and supported. I had the incredible opportunity to work with people who truly understand what it means to have really connected working relationships. I’m better because I’m a member of a lifelong club of incredible people who care for and support one another.
After 40-plus years in public accounting, what advice do you have for others following in your footsteps?
Do what you love. Find whatever it is that you enjoy doing and do it. But when it’s time to let go, let go. Hold what you’ve learned and the relationships, but let the work go. Trust the people you’ve left behind and keep your connections strong.
More About Tricia Wilson
- Born in Nashville, Tennessee
- Received her bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of North Carolina and her master’s degree in accounting from the University of South Carolina
- Previously worked at PwC and Arthur Andersen & Co.
- Co-founded Gumb, Stickland & Wilson PA in 1989 in Charleston, South Carolina (merged with Dixon Hughes in 2006)
- Served as DHG Charleston Managing Partner
- Served as DHG Mid-Atlantic Regional Managing Partner
- Served as the firm’s first Chief Talent Officer
- As a forensic CPA, testified in numerous courts and at depositions, primarily regarding taxation, specifically business valuations, litigation support and mediation, and business and individual consulting services
- Holds the Accredited in Business Valuation designation by the American Institute of CPAs
- Has two daughters and two granddaughters
- Serves on the board of North Carolina Outward Bound
- Since retiring, has taken up golf and enjoys playing pickleball, working out, traveling, and spending more time with family and friends
