Culture Architects™ 32. The Aprio Way: Leading with Kindness Through Growth w/ Richard Kopelman (Part 1)
Jan 27, 2025
David chats with Richard Kopelman, CEO and managing partner of Aprio, known for his commitment to nurturing a positive company culture. Richard reflects on his journey from staff accountant to leader, revealing key moments that shaped his growth. He shares insights on the Aprio Way and the 31 fundamentals that drive success. The conversation dives into the importance of kindness in the workplace and how positive relationships enhance team dynamics and business outcomes. Richard also emphasizes the link between culture and sustainable growth in CPA firms.
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Kopelman's Leadership Journey
- Richard Kopelman became a leader through seizing opportunities.
- He volunteered for a large client project when his supervisor was on vacation and later took on more responsibilities when a colleague left.
Aprio's Business Model Shift
- Aprio transitioned from a traditional CPA firm model to a multidisciplinary professional services firm.
- This shift involved establishing a leadership team and board of directors, focusing on building a sustainable business model.
Culture as a Priority
- Richard Kopelman prioritized building a "best places to work" environment.
- He linked employee engagement and excitement to client satisfaction and upward mobility.