Q. Make a prediction; describe your vision of the business future.
Other countries will outpace the United States in growth for the foreseeable future. Business will be even more global and technology will continue to transform the way we do everything. That said, I believe the personal touch will be even more important. Because there will be fewer opportunities to meet personally with clients, we need to create and take advantage of those occasions as they arise. You better have great manners, listening skills and a great sense of humor in addition to technical prowess.
Q. If you could change one thing at Armanino, what would it be?
Truly not much. This firm is committed to listening to its employees from the most junior staffer to the most senior partner. The firm is continually looking for ways to improve communication and is open to new ideas. We have staff and management advisory councils that ensure everyone has a voice and a seat at the table and most important: that they can be part of the process of implementing their best ideas..
Q. Describe your work style.
I'm an organized project manager. I believe that businesses grow from strong teams and I rely on my teams. While I have high expectations, I trust in my team and give them opportunities to learn and to stretch themselves professionally. I show appreciation by supporting my team members in whatever way I can. What's important to me is the quality of work not the quantity of hours worked.
Q. Who is the most influential person (or persons) in your life?
Without a doubt it would be my parents. They emigrated from Japan with very little in search of a better life. They worked very hard at labor jobs to support us and to put my two brothers and I through college They were prudent with their finances, didn't believe in debt and funded their own retirement. I admire the way they conducted their lives and I compare my conduct to theirs.
Beyond the Boardroom
What do you do to relax when you’re not at work?
I like to spend time with my family, read, watch movies and travel. I am learning how to cook and do enjoy it, even though I’m not that good at it.
Favorite vacation:
In 2000, my husband and I went to Northern Italy for a couple of weeks. We stayed with a friend who was an opera singer and who was fluent in Italian. He was a great tour guide and showed us Italy through the eyes of the locals. It was a great experience and I’d like to go back and see more!
Desert island wish:
My family would have to be on the island with me as well as my dog, a few good books and a couple of cocktails.
What are you reading right now?
“Personal History” by Katherine Graham
Quotable quote:
“The journey is the reward.”
One word that best describes you:
Fair
