NextLeaders Academy

This program is designed to help your succession plan succeed. Led by partners of longtime AGN member firms, the NextLeaders Academy will shape the future of your firm. This two-day, intensive bootcamp style training is centered around seven pillars of learning, and will provide new partners with the opportunity to build new knowledge, learn from the expertise of experienced and successful leaders, and build relationships with their peers in AGN that will long outlast the program. 

Participants will go through three onboarding webinars to be held in January and May 2022. The in person meeting will happen in conjunction with the 2022 NARM to be held in Minnesota in May. After completing the bootcamp, participants will then roll into Partner Study groups where they can continue developing their leadership skills and relationships. 

The Seven Pillars of Leadership

  • Management, Leadership and Command - Beginning the Journey
  • Mechanics, culture, values and goals of a firm - Getting Under the Hood
  • Client Service and building/sustaining great relationships - Creating "sticky" situations
  • Marketing, selling, and building value - Making it Rain
  • Performance Management, Coaching and Mentorship - Developing Others
  • The Digital Journey - Future-proofing your Practice
  • Negotiating, Influencing and Engaging Audiences -  Exploring Dynamic Communication

Program Information 

Starts: Onboarding Webinars: January 11, January 25 and May 3, 2022 from 11 am -1 pm ET |  In Person Meeting: May 18-19, 2022 in TBD, MN. 
Audience:  Those who are within 1 year of becoming partner, or who have been in the role for less than 2 years. 
Requirements: Participants must be nominated by their Managing Partner
Cost: $2,750

 Email Ashleigh Lambert, Director of Member Programs, to nominate participants and begin the registration process! 



Program Leader Bios         
Jim Carulas, CPA
Chief Executive Officer 
Meaden & Moore
Jim has been with Meaden & Moore for over 25 years, advising clients on a number of financial and business matters. Much of his experience has been working with the owners and management of growth-oriented companies, specifically manufacturing, distribution and industrial service companies, on business growth strategies, including global initiatives. 

Lisa Hastings, CPA
Partner
Faw Casson
I have spent my entire professional career with Faw Casson, most recently serving 2 terms as Managing Partner. My personal focus aligns with the Firm’s mission – to serve as our clients' most trusted advisors and earn our reputation as the Firm of Choice in our markets. I primarily work with larger privately-owned companies, the owners and their families, specializing in business and tax consulting, estates and trusts. I also originated and developed the employee benefit plan audit niche within the Firm. 

My experience with the Firm has also allowed me to invest in the local and professional communities over the years. I currently serve as Chair of AGN North America, on the Board of Pecometh Camp and Retreat Ministries, and on the Legislative Committee of the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce (CDCC). Previously, I have served as Chair of the CDCC and Council member of the Delaware Society of CPAs. 

Carol Villemaire, CPA
Partner
James Moore & Co. P.L.
Carol Villemaire has more than 35 years of experience as a certified public accountant and consultant. She provides a variety of services to her clients including tax returns, financial statements (audits, reviews and compilations), tax planning and general business consulting.

Carol oversees the firm’s Technology Services Team, which serves software and life sciences companies. She addresses needs associated with reporting of investment capital, research grants, licenses and patents, stock options and exit/transition strategies. Innovative companies need innovative solutions; Carol’s experience with technology firms and their unique challenges allow her to provide much-needed expertise at a critical point in their development. Since many startup leaders have not yet gained experience in accounting functions or business planning, she serves as a trusted resource to guide them through their growth.

Carol volunteers with organizations that support the innovation economy; she is the treasurer of the Florida Research Consortium and a past treasurer of StartupGNV.