Kenneth A. Macias
Expertise.
30 years’ experience in accounting, including all levels of governmental, nonprofit and business organizations
Professional Associations and Leadership.
AICPA Governance Council
AICPA State and Local Government Accounting and Auditing Committee
AICPA Task Force on performance auditing and program specific audits
GASB Task Force projects including GASB Statement No. 31, Accounting and Financial Reporting for Certain Investments and for
External Investment Pools
GASB Asset Impairment Advisory Committee
Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) by the Association of Government Accountants
AICPA Auditing Standards Board (2002-2003)
Former Chairman of the Government Accounting and Auditing Committee for the California Society of CPAs, Sacramento Chapter
Government Finance Officers’ Association
American Society for Public Administration
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
California Society of Certified Public Accountants
Education.
University of Southern California, Los Angeles
Doctorate in Public Administration, Auditing & Finance
California State University, Sacramento
Master of Science, Accountancy and Taxation
Golden Gate University, San Francisco
Master of Business Administration, Finance
California State University, Sacramento
Bachelor of Science, Business Administration (Accounting)
Awards and Service.
Exemplary Hispanic Business Leader (2008)
Chair, California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce (elected 2007)
Treasurer, California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce (elected 2006)
Chairman, Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (elected 2004)
California State University, Sacramento Distinguished Service Award (2004)
California State University, Sacramento College of Business Administration Alum of the Year (2004)
California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Businessman of the Year (2003)
Recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Hispanics by Hispanic Business magazine (2003)
California Center for Teaching Careers Hispanic Heritage Month Outstanding California Latino Leader (2001)
Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Businessman of the Year (1992)
Q&A.
Why are you passionate about public accounting?
It’s so much more than numbers. Public accounting requires a deep understanding of business. I didn’t fully realize that going into the profession, but over time I grew more and more impressed with the level of learning one can experience in an accounting career. If you reflect on the nature of what you do, you become a top-notch business man or woman who can truly help clients. Accounting is great because it’s a necessary, helpful profession.
Why do you like working at MGO?
At MGO, it’s about people, technical challenge and opportunity. I get jazzed by the many stories about the development of our people. I’ve counseled many employees through the CPA exam, and I think I’m more thrilled than they are when they pass! It’s so rewarding to see people meet and exceed their goals. I enjoy the limitless opportunity we create for our people and celebrating the achievement of their milestones. In the technical arena, exciting things happen all the time. I remember completing the City of Los Angeles’ first-ever GFOA CAFR. I’ve been on a number of exciting technical committees as well. I’ve had the privilege of serving on these committees and then mentoring those who have followed.
Describe a favorite client or client story.
There are so many stories, but one of my favorites is about knowing your audience. I was in front of a city council giving an audit report that detailed a number of material weaknesses in internal controls. The presentation was very well-attended, but I noticed eyes glazing over as I detailed the concerns in the report. Suddenly I turned to the people behind me and said, “I don’t think you’re getting it! It’s like your checkbook. You write checks but you don’t reconcile them or keep track of them. Therefore, how do you know how much cash you have?” The entire room exhaled a big sigh of understanding. Ten people got up when I was finished and thanked me, saying that was the first time they understood the financials. They wanted their City to “keep Macias” beyond that one-year contract!
What qualities do you look for in job applicants?
I look for enthusiastic people who want a proud career in public accounting.
Who are you outside the office?
Beyond the obvious things I value most outside the office – my family and my religion – I value relationships with friends. I take friendship very seriously and devote energy and integrity to those relationships. I really enjoy “hanging out” with a variety of people. Personally, I value fitness and strive to be a happy, healthy person.