Number of employees you oversee: As a market leader in Eastern Washington, I oversee 150-175 professionals.
Tara Haight
A brief background of your business:
CLA exists to create opportunities for our clients, employees, and communities through industry-focused wealth advisory, digital, audit, tax, consulting, and outsourcing services. With nearly 9,000 employees, more than 130 U.S. locations, and a global vision, we’re committed to knowing you and helping you. CLA is an independent network member of CLA Global. Investment advisory services are provided through CliftonLarsonAllen Wealth Advisors LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor.
What led you to your current position? How long have you been there?
I started CLA in December 2010, when my husband and I decided it was time to move our kids to a sunny spot on the mountain side, so I started CLA with a focus on taxes. Ta. Several years ago, I was given the opportunity to lead a manufacturing and distribution industry in central Washington. Starting in January 2025, our Central Washington office will be combined with our Spokane office and I will move into the role of market leader for our new Eastern Washington office.
How has the accounting department evolved since you first started working there?
The accounting and professional services industry is more important than ever to our clients today. Between advances in artificial intelligence, digital technology and demands from our clients to deliver more value, our capabilities and our industry will continue to evolve. At CLA, we envision eliminating data entry and leveraging client data to provide more insight into your business. While CPAs will continue to fill the majority of professional roles, I think we will continue to see companies invest in non-CPA roles such as data scientists. As our clients seek more than traditional accounting and tax services, we believe we will continue to increase the services we offer. It’s an exciting time to be in this field.
Can you share your best tax advice for small businesses?
Plan ahead and talk to your tax professional before the end of the year so you can make changes if necessary.
Are there any important tax changes that businesses should be aware of as we approach the end of the year?
The bonus depreciation rate is currently 60% in 2024 and will drop to 40% in 2025. This means that the portion of the cost of new equipment that businesses can deduct in the first year is reduced. Without additional legislation, major provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expire at the end of 2025, imposing significant tax changes on individuals and employers, including higher tax rates and a smaller standard deduction.
What characteristics should every leader have?
Leadership is about empowering and inspiring others. Leadership involves maintaining open communication and involving employees in the decision-making process. This helps build trust and makes everyone feel valued and heard.
What are the biggest challenges facing business leaders today?
The biggest challenge facing business leaders today is navigating the complexities of digital transformation. This includes:
Data management: Ensures data is accessible, accurate, and available for decision-making in real time. Technology integration: Integrate new technology into existing systems without disrupting operations. Cybersecurity: Protect sensitive information from increasing cyber threats. Adapting to change: Continually respond. Rapid technological advances and changing market conditions.
Meeting these challenges requires leaders to be agile, forward-thinking, and conversant with both technology and business strategy.
If you had a magic wand, what would you change in your industry?
Current law requires CPA candidates to complete 150 hours of college education in one semester. I support the proposal to eliminate the 150-hour requirement for CPAs. We need to look at other ways to bring more people into the profession in order to continue to deliver the exceptional value we offer our clients.
What advice would you give someone entering a leadership position for the first time?
When you plan your succession, you focus on building up those around you. Leadership includes recognizing and rewarding employees for their hard work, providing opportunities for professional growth, and fostering a positive work environment.
Who is your role model or mentor and why?
Early in my career, I worked for a woman who helped me understand that I could grow my career and become a professional while raising a family.
How do you keep your employees motivated?
Keeping employees motivated requires a combination of strategies that address their professional and personal needs. Here are some effective methods.
Recognition and Rewards: Regularly recognize and reward employees for their hard work and accomplishments. Career Development: We provide opportunities for professional growth through training, mentorship, and career advancement. Work-life balance: We encourage a healthy work-life balance by offering flexible working hours. Engagement and communication: Promote open communication and involve employees in the decision-making process. Positive Work Environment: Create a supportive and inclusive work culture. Purpose and meaning: Help employees understand how their work contributes to the organization.‘goals and mission.
These strategies help maintain high levels of employee motivation and job satisfaction.
How did you decide to pursue the career you are currently working in?
In high school, I became interested in business classes and participated in DECA. When I got to college, I took a little detour to get a medical related degree, but thankfully I got an internship and realized I didn’t want to be in other people’s personal space, so I took an accounting class. I had a feeling and it was easy for me. I knew I had found my people!
How do you measure success at work?
My goal in helping people get where they want to go is to surround myself with people who are much smarter than me and help them succeed.
What do you consider your leadership style?
It’s relatable and relatable.
How do you balance work and home life?
Some days are a struggle to juggle, but my husband, kids, and I work together as a team each week to figure things out.
What do you like to do in your time outside of work?
She enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, children, and three dogs, traveling, hiking, skiing, and golfing.
What is your best time management strategy?
Plan your day:
Start with the most important tasks. Allocate specific blocks of time for each category. Avoid multitasking to stay focused and efficient.
Best tips to reduce stress?
Take a long walk outside.
What is your favorite podcast? Most used app? Or favorite website? What is your favorite book? (Feel free to choose one or all.)
The most used app is texting. I have two kids in high school, so this is how we keep communication flowing.
Favorite Podcast – “The Doctor’s Farmacy with Mark Hyman, MD”” (I turned into an accountant but am still interested in health and nutrition).
Latest book – “The Women” by Kristin Hanna.
Do you have a personal mantra, phrase, or quote that you like to use?
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Wayne Gretzky
