In our In the Spotlight series, we periodically introduce you to one of Kreischer Miller’s team members by interviewing them about a variety of topics. We hope you enjoy this firsthand look into lives of our team members – both inside and outside of the office!
For this post we’ve interviewed Brian Sharkey, director-in-charge of our Business Advisory group. Brian joined Kreischer Miller in 2000 after working in industry and he has a B.S. in Accounting from Penn State. When he's not at work, Brian loves to go hiking and head to the Outer Banks for vacation.
Watch Brian's interview here and read the more detailed Q&A below to learn more!
What are you currently working on?
As I write this, I’m sitting on a plane on my way to San Diego for a conference, where I’m looking to collaborate with others and gain ideas about growing our Business Advisory practice.
As a director in the firm, what are some of the challenges you face on a daily basis?
Prioritizing my time. With so many “balls in the air” it can be a challenge to make sure I’m spending my time where it should be spent.
Why did you choose a career in public accounting?
My goal was to work in public accounting so I could get my CPA, which required two years of public accounting experience at the time. I then planned to move on after two years, but since joining Kreischer Miller I’ve truly never looked back.
What was your most memorable class in college?
Geology, also known as Rocks for Jocks. It wasn’t a challenging class, but I found it fascinating.
What was your first job?
Staff accountant in industry at the Brickman Group, a company that provided landscape maintenance and snow removal services. The company was acquired a few years ago.
Why did you initially decide to work at Kreischer Miller as opposed to a Big 4 firm?
Public accounting didn't appeal to me in college, which is why I started my career in industry. It was only when a college friend asked if I was interested in working for Kreischer Miller that I actually entertained the idea.
What’s the most important advice you could give to someone embarking on his or her accounting career?
Never settle. There’s so much to do and learn in the accounting industry, which can lead to great career opportunities – but not if you settle for the status quo.
Do you have any tips for how to achieve a good work/life balance?
Don’t get boxed into the 9 to 5 mentality. As long as you’re meeting your clients’ and the firm’s obligations, it doesn’t matter whether you’re getting the work done at 9 am or 9 pm.
Who has been your most important mentor?
There are too many to name! That’s no joke; I’ve learned from many people throughout my career, which I think is really important.
What's your favorite thing to do outside of the office?
I like to get outside to go hiking and explore.
What's your favorite vacation spot?
Outer Banks, North Carolina.
What's your favorite app on your phone?
SiriusXM.
Name five things you couldn't live without.
Ice cream, soda, candy, my wife, and my kids.
Name a goal you're working toward achieving.
A Spartan Trifecta, which is a series of three obstacle course races over rough terrain at distances of approximately 5 miles, 8 miles and 13 miles.
What would surprise people about you?
When I was a teenager I was electrocuted by a lightning surge in my house.
Also check out: