Nancy J. Snyder, CPA

Rochester Regional Managing Partner, The Bonadio Group

Years in current role: 2

What trends or emerging technologies do you see shaping the future of your field?

The most significant technology that will impact the accounting profession in the coming years is artificial intelligence (AI). We’ve heard from recent graduates that they want to be challenged and not spending their time doing repetitive tasks. AI will continue to assist with streamlining efforts and freeing up our professionals for more complex tasks. We are confident that AI will not replace accountants but rather complement what they are able to do and enhance client service.

How are regulatory changes affecting your business, and how are you adapting?

There has always been one constant in the accounting profession, and that is change. We are lucky if a month or two goes by without accounting rule changes, tax changes, technology advancements or a combination of all of them. This requires us to constantly keep our professionals up to date and trained on the latest developments, so they are in the best position to be trusted business advisors to our clients. We pride ourselves on our robust training and development programs used to keep our professionals prepared.

What was a defining moment in your career that shaped your leadership style?

For me, my defining moment(s) happened before my career even started by watching and emulating my mother. I have seven siblings, and my mother always worked full time. She taught me that it is hard, but you can have a career and still be a good wife and mother. She was an RN who worked her way from a floor nurse to Director of Nursing by always doing what was right, not what was popular or easy. She made home-cooked meals each night and still found time to spend with each of us. I used her as my beacon to know what to aim for and to know what was possible. She was always a great sounding board, and her direct nature and spunk is something I see in myself and my grown children.

How do you see Rochester’s business community evolving in the coming years?

As business professionals, we have to do a better job of engaging our youth so they see the benefits offered by Rochester and the accounting profession. When people hear accountant, they often think “boring” — but I am never bored. It has been almost 40 years since college graduation for me and I still love what I do. My biggest driver is that my days are never the same and that keeps me interested and engaged. I love my clients, and I love finding ways to help their organizations. I also love working with other professionals throughout the firm and our community. I enjoy driving change and creating a culture that makes people want to be part of a great firm and grow the business.

What’s your favorite way to support other local businesses?

I love trying new restaurants and finding unique shopping boutiques. I enjoy having conversations with the owners and hearing their story on how they decided to start their business and how they chose Rochester.