Chaz Stringer

• MBA Candidate at Duke University Fuqua School of Business (2027)
• INCPAS Scholar Indianapolis 2014–15
• Attended Indiana University Bloomington Kelley School of Business for undergrad and double majored in finance and business law

We have shared several stories about our INCPAS Scholars throughout the years. The program has helped shape the careers of many aspiring accountants, providing them with the tools and opportunities to succeed. 

Chaz participated in the 2014–15 INCPAS Scholars program. He has recently embarked on a new journey to earn his MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business. He shared valuable advice on how to succeed in college, love the work you do and set long-term goals.

INCPAS: What was your favorite part of the INCPAS Scholars program?

Chaz: THE PEOPLE. The organization’s mission to provide students the opportunity to see firsthand careers in accounting is priceless. There are some things you learn in a classroom and other things you learn from experience. Some of my favorite memories of the program stem from my early interactions with my mentor (Joe Kalule) during the office visits. Even today, Joe and I still connect and remain friends—the program doesn’t just stop after high school. When done right, it’s just the beginning of learning, networking and paying it forward for other Scholars to continue to have positive experiences in the future.

INCPAS: In an article in the Spring 2017 issue of CPA IN Perspective, you talked about the importance of being able to think critically on your college exams, and not just memorize information. Do you have any other tips for incoming college freshman?

Chaz: Find mentors early on who have accomplished future goals of yours, choose your friends wisely, and remember you
are human. 

Mentors can help you see around the corner and share life lessons that can be applicable to you overcoming hurdles faster, or better yet, avoiding certain hurdles in the first place. Life is stressful enough as it is; there’s no need to overstress when answers and solutions can be provided by those who came before us.

Your friends in college likely will be one of your closest circles of influence. Inside and outside of the classroom, be sure to self-reflect to make sure those you choose to be around represent your future goals and demonstrate behaviors that support your life aspirations.

Most importantly, take a deep breath and remember you’re human. Mistakes are bound to happen; sometimes failure is a pre-requisite to success. I often learn more when I fail than when I succeed. Take the learning lessons in stride and develop new strategies to overcome your obstacles. 

INCPAS: You just wrapped up working at Eli Lilly & Co. for over six years. What were your main responsibilities as finance manager?

Chaz: I’ve been fortunate to have an untraditional early career working in Eli Lilly’s Corporate Finance organization. I had the opportunity to change positions or responsibilities every six to nine months. I’ve been able to support colleagues in Manufacturing & Quality, International Business Units and Research & Development. In these spaces, I conducted financial planning and analysis, capex advisory services, and led multiple busy seasons in working with senior leadership to best position organizations to execute financial goals and, more importantly, expedite getting medicine to patients who need it most. 

A visit to Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business upon acceptance to the MBA program.	Touring Duke University’s campus.

INCPAS: And now, you’re beginning your journey to earn your MBA at Duke University. Congratulations! Why did you want to earn your MBA?

Chaz: The working world continues to change and shows no signs of slowing down. Future leaders will be faced with new complex problems that will require an enhanced skillset and upskilling. Recognizing this, I wanted to be intentional in my personal development by adding new skills and learning from the best faculty and other cohort members, leveraging their past experiences and industry expertise. Through this experience, I aim to gain the same level of confidence I received in undergrad from Kelley School of Business to help me become a strong future business leader. The Fuqua School of Business positions me well to take that next step in balancing IQ & EQ (and, for those who know, DQ).

INCPAS: Do you have any advice for students who are trying to figure out their career path?

Chaz: I have two pieces of advice. First, know your “why.” It will guide you, help reassure you and push you through tough times, if and when you find yourself in difficult situations. If you don’t already know what your “why” is, finding it can take time and deep self-reflection, so be sure to carve out availability so you don’t have to rush through the process. 

Second, figure out what you are naturally good at. It should be almost effortless. For those who are religious, this can often be referred to as a “gift.” If nothing immediately comes to mind, ask those close to you and see if there are common themes you can narrow in on. Once you know your gift or natural talent, start to research careers that value it and find individuals in that space that exemplify your gift (i.e. leverage LinkedIn for networking). If you cannot narrow in on a clear industry/sector, congratulations! You just created a new market for yourself and could be on the beginning of your entrepreneurship journey.

INCPAS: What are your long-term professional goals?

Chaz: Post-MBA, my long-term goal is to become an international CFO. Global business leaders are one-of-a-kind. Their problem-solving spans time zones and work touches multiple communities from different backgrounds. Aspirations of becoming an international CFO stem from my previous Eli Lilly work experience in Switzerland and Germany where I worked closely with local CFOs. I want to be a leader who has gained insights and industry best practices ahead of needing them to ensure I can properly set future businesses, stakeholders, and the communities I serve up for success.

INCPAS: What is a mantra you live your life by?

Chaz: Talent without discipline is a repetitive storyline—be different! When you fall in love with the process and not the result, you’ll truly begin to master your craft. Stay humble, and in the words of NABA Inc., “Lift As You Climb.”  

INCPAS Scholars is an award-winning, free program that encourages high school students to consider becoming a CPA. The first program of its kind for state CPA societies, INCPAS Scholars introduces students to the profession by pairing them with practicing CPAs, touring CPA firms and businesses that employ CPAs, and participating in events to immerse them in the profession. You can support the program at incpas.org/Scholars.

Want to get involved as an INCPAS Scholars mentor? 
Contact Ali Tonini, CAE, INCPAS VP – Workforce & Leadership, for more information.