The team at Jacobson Jarvis & Co (JJCo) is made up of a variety of diverse individuals who each contribute their own backgrounds, interests, and skills to the table. Our employee spotlight series will highlight some of our awesome employees and give our community a behind-the-scenes look at what makes JJCo such an incredible place to work.
In this interview, we’re chatting with Tax Staff Katie Joens about her background in public accounting, her passion for working with marginalized groups, and the inclusive and supportive work environment at Jacobson Jarvis.
How long have you worked for Jacobson Jarvis?
Just five months! I started in February 2022.
What made you want to join the team at JJCo?
After I entered public accounting, I quickly realized that I wanted to do work that I was passionate about, and for me that meant working with nonprofits. I also typically prefer the work environment at smaller organizations, so finding a relatively small CPA firm in Seattle that specializes in nonprofits was really exciting.
What experiences in your background helped prepare you to work with nonprofits in this setting?
I have about two years of public accounting experience as well as a master’s degree in taxation and CPA license. I actually applied to work at JJCo the same day I became a licensed CPA!
Could you describe your position and what is your favorite part of what you do?
My work is pretty straightforward: I prepare tax returns for mostly nonprofits, but also some individuals, trusts, and for-profit entities. I’m still fairly new to JJCo and its clients, so my favorite part has been learning about all the different nonprofits and their missions. It feels good knowing that the work I’m doing helps support their missions, even indirectly.
What are your favorite types of nonprofit organizations to work with?
I particularly enjoy working with organizations that support the LGBTQ community and other marginalized groups.
What do you think is so special about Jacobson Jarvis and their work culture?
Public accounting is notoriously intense, but people at JJCo genuinely value and encourage work-life balance. I also get to work closely with clients and colleagues, so the impact of my work is quite palpable and more fulfilling than your typical CPA firm. Additionally, people at JJCo share my enthusiasm and appreciation for the work our clients are doing, which lends to a very positive work environment.
What are three words you’d use to describe JJCo?
Inclusive, supportive, and flexible.
Interested in joining the team at Jacobson Jarvis? We’re hiring! Check out our available positions today.
About Katie Joens:
Katie joined Jacobson Jarvis in February of 2022. She entered public accounting in 2020 after finishing her master’s in taxation at Gonzaga University. She is passionate about using her education and experience to assist not-for-profits and serve our communities.
