{"id":122143,"date":"2026-04-06T14:45:24","date_gmt":"2026-04-06T18:45:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/?p=122143"},"modified":"2026-04-06T15:43:33","modified_gmt":"2026-04-06T19:43:33","slug":"leah-switzer-driving-impact-through-leadership-in-accounting","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/leah-switzer-driving-impact-through-leadership-in-accounting\/","title":{"rendered":"Leah Switzer: Driving Impact Through Leadership in Accounting"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Leah Switzer\u2019s journey into accounting and leadership is a powerful example of what it means to grow through experience, embrace challenges, and build a career with intention. As Director of Accounting at Ross, she has stepped into a role that demands not only strong technical expertise, but also the ability to lead, adapt, and make strategic decisions in an ever-evolving financial landscape. Her path reflects a reality many professionals face. Careers are rarely linear. Instead, they are shaped over time through persistence, continuous learning, and a willingness to step into new opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond her professional growth, what makes Leah\u2019s story especially compelling is how she has balanced the demands of leadership with her personal life. While advancing her career, pursuing further education, and raising a family, she has remained grounded in a leadership style built on accountability, structure, and support. She creates an environment where both people and processes can succeed. Leah\u2019s journey goes beyond titles and accomplishments. In this interview, she shares the experiences, challenges, and lessons that continue to shape her path today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Can you tell me a bit about your background and how you ended up at Ross?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>My career path was not something I had completely figured out from the beginning. Like many people, I discovered my direction through experience rather than following a strict plan. Early on, I explored different roles and responsibilities, and over time I began to recognize where my strengths were and what kind of work I truly enjoyed. Accounting became that area for me because I was drawn to the structure, the problem-solving aspect, and the ability to work with information in a meaningful way. It is a field where you can clearly see the impact of your work, and that really appealed to me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As I gained experience, I continued to build my skills and take on more responsibility. Originally from Texas, I eventually made the move to Michigan, which led me to Ross, where I now serve as Director of Accounting. Joining Ross allowed me to contribute on a larger scale and be involved in both the operational and strategic sides of the organization. Managing my MBA with work and family life taught me a lot about discipline, time management, and the importance of having a clear vision for growth. These experiences gave me confidence in my ability to adapt and thrive in dynamic situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Did you always know you wanted to pursue a career in accounting?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>No, it was not something I always knew from the start. My interest in accounting developed over time as I gained exposure to different types of work. One of the things that stood out to me about accounting was how practical it is; these are skills that are useful not only in a professional setting but also in everyday life. Another reason I stayed interested in accounting is that it is always evolving. There are constant changes in regulations, policies, and financial systems, which means there is always something new to learn and keeps the work from becoming repetitive. Over time, what started as a job became a career I genuinely enjoy and feel confident in. Accounting is not just about numbers; it is about understanding processes, spotting patterns, and supporting organizations in a meaningful way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What inspired you to continue growing and step into a director-level role?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Growth has always been a strong motivator for me. I have always wanted to continue improving and challenging myself. As I became more comfortable in my roles, I started to take on more responsibility and look for opportunities to expand my impact. Stepping into a director-level position was not just about advancing my career; it was about being able to contribute in a bigger way. In this role, I am able to support my team, improve processes, and help ensure that the organization is operating efficiently from a financial perspective. It also gave me the opportunity to develop as a leader, which has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey so far. My progression into leadership highlights the importance of being open to growth. Rather than waiting for the perfect moment, I embraced opportunities as they came and used each experience as a stepping stone toward the next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What were some of the biggest challenges you faced stepping into this role?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In leadership roles, you are often faced with situations where there is no clear answer or step-by-step guide. You have to rely on your knowledge, your experience, and your ability to think critically. Building that confidence took time. There were moments where I had to remind myself that I was capable, even if I did not have all the answers right away. I learned that being able to figure things out is just as important as already knowing them. Another challenge is the constantly changing nature of accounting. Regulations and policies are always being updated, which means you have to stay informed and adaptable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l5.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-122144 displayOverride\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l5.png 920w, https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l5-300x248.png 300w, https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l5-768x634.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Have you had any mentors or role models who influenced your journey?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, I have had several influences along the way. My significant other, parents and sisters have been very important role models in my life, and I have also had mentors throughout my career who have offered guidance and support. Having people who encourage you and share their experiences can make a big difference. They help you see things from a different perspective and give you the confidence to keep moving forward, even during challenging times. Those influences have shaped not only my career path but also the way I approach leadership today. I have also leaned on colleagues and friends during times when I was juggling various responsibilities, and their support reinforced the importance of building strong networks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-122147 displayOverride\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l2.png 920w, https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l2-300x248.png 300w, https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l2-768x634.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What does a typical day look like for you as Director of Accounting?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There is really no such thing as a typical day in my role, which is something I enjoy. Each day brings a different set of priorities and challenges. My responsibilities include overseeing accounting operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance, and supporting my team with any issues that come up. A large part of my day involves problem-solving. Whether it is reviewing financial data, addressing discrepancies, or working through complex processes, there is always something that requires attention and focus. Communication is also a big part of what I do. I work closely with my team and collaborate with other departments to make sure everything is aligned and running smoothly. The pace can be fast, but it is also what keeps the role engaging and rewarding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How would you describe your leadership style, and how has it evolved over time?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>My leadership style has definitely changed as I have gained more experience. Early in my career, I focused primarily on learning the technical aspects of my job and becoming confident in my own abilities. As I moved into leadership, my focus shifted toward supporting others. I believe in clear communication, accountability, and creating a structured environment where expectations are understood. At the same time, I want my team to feel supported and comfortable coming to me with questions or concerns. I believe that strong teams are built through trust, consistency, and open communication. Leadership is not just about managing tasks; it is about helping people grow and succeed in their roles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What qualities are most important for someone in accounting or leadership?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Adaptability is one of the most important qualities, especially in accounting. The field is always changing, so you have to be willing to learn and adjust as needed. Attention to detail is also critical. Even small errors can have a significant impact, so accuracy is extremely important. Strong communication skills are another key factor. You need to be able to explain complex information in a way that others can understand and work effectively as part of a team. From a leadership perspective, I\u2019d say patience, accountability, and the ability to guide and support others are essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is something people might not realize about accounting?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A common misconception is that accounting is just about numbers. In reality, it involves a lot of critical thinking and problem-solving. It also requires staying up to date with constantly changing regulations and policies. There are many different areas within accounting, and it is not realistic to know everything. Most professionals develop expertise in specific areas, which is why collaboration and continuous learning are so important. Accounting is also about understanding the human and operational sides of a business, and leadership roles amplify that responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What keeps you motivated and passionate about your work?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>I am motivated by growth and opportunity. I enjoy learning new things, improving my skills, and taking on new challenges. There is always an opportunity to get better, and that is something that drives me. My family is also a huge source of motivation. Balancing work, education, and family life can be challenging, but it is also very rewarding. It pushes me to stay focused and continue working toward my goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What accomplishment are you most proud of?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is being able to successfully balance multiple responsibilities at once. Managing a career, continuing my education, and raising a family all at the same time has required a lot of discipline and effort. It has not always been easy, but it has been incredibly rewarding. It is something that I look back on with a strong sense of pride because it demonstrates my ability to adapt, persevere, and achieve long-term goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What do you enjoy doing outside of work?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Outside of work, I spend most of my time with my family. That is where I am able to relax and recharge. I also enjoy staying active. When I am not at sports activities with my kids, I am at the gym or learning new martial art techniques with my better half. All help me stay disciplined and focused. They provide a great balance to the demands of work and help me maintain both physical and mental strength.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l6.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-122145 displayOverride\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l6.png 920w, https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l6-300x248.png 300w, https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l6-768x634.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-122146 displayOverride\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l1.png 920w, https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l1-300x248.png 300w, https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/l1-768x634.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What advice would you give your younger self?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>I would tell my younger self to be patient, trust the process and accept the challenge. It is easy to feel like you need to have everything figured out right away, but that is not how growth works. Every experience plays a role in shaping your path, even the challenging ones. Staying consistent, continuing to learn, and believing in yourself are what really matter in the long run. I would also remind myself that everyday life responsibilities all build skills that cannot be taught in a classroom, and they prepare you for leadership in ways nothing else can.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are your future goals and aspirations?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking ahead, I want to continue growing in my role and expanding my impact. That includes supporting my team, improving processes, and continuing to develop both professionally and personally. I am always looking for ways to learn and improve, and I am excited to see where that growth will take me in the future. My experiences have given me confidence that I can handle whatever challenges come my way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Leah Switzer\u2019s journey is a strong reminder that success is not about having everything planned out from the beginning. It is about being willing to learn, adapt, and step into new challenges with confidence. Her ability to balance career growth, education, and family life speaks to her dedication and resilience. More importantly, her story shows that leadership is not just about expertise. It is about mindset, consistency, and the willingness to keep moving forward even when things are uncertain. For anyone looking to grow in their career, Leah\u2019s journey offers an inspiring example of what is possible through hard work, self-belief, and a commitment to continuous improvement.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Leah Switzer\u2019s journey into accounting and leadership is a powerful example of what it means to grow through experience, embrace&hellip;<br \/><a class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/leah-switzer-driving-impact-through-leadership-in-accounting\/\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":122148,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/122143"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=122143"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/122143\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":122152,"href":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/122143\/revisions\/122152"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/122148"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=122143"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=122143"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rosseducation.edu\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=122143"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}