Q&A with Courtney Crandell
How long have you worked in accounting or finance? Recruiting?
I started my career in accounting with KPMG in Greenville, South Carolina immediately after graduate school. I spent 6 years with the audit group in Greenville and then transferred to accounting advisory services in Atlanta for 2 years. My career with J Curve/Homrich Klein & Associates began in November 2018 and is my first role as a full-time recruiter.
How were you introduced to the recruiting industry?
During my tenure at KPMG, I functioned as the campus recruiting manager in Greenville for 2 years. I loved attending recruiting events since day one, so I jumped at the chance to lead the recruiting efforts when the opportunity arose. When I moved to Atlanta, I still attended events but was not nearly as involved so I missed connecting with others and helping to navigate their career paths.
Why do you look forward to working in accounting and finance talent recruiting / consulting?
I find people to be fascinating. I love meeting someone new and reaching the point in a conversation where they get excited about something in their life – a job, a goal, an accomplishment, etc. You can see their eyes light up, and when you show genuine interest, the conversation takes a whole new turn. I am looking forward to engaging in more of these conversations and helping someone find the job that gives them that same enthusiasm.
If you were to provide advice to peers in accounting or finance seeking to develop their careers, what would it be?
Determine where you want to end your career and work backwards on how to get there. Never lose sight of what makes you happy today while in pursuit of your long-term goals.
How did you first learn about J Curve?
Completely by happenstance. I had been thinking about pursuing a role in the talent recruiting field and finally decided to do a job search on LinkedIn. It popped up as a job opportunity so I applied and did some research on the website. Amy Dresser sent over a video describing what makes the company unique, and I was hooked immediately!
What are 3 words to describe J Curve (or your impression thus far)?
• Attentive
• Empathetic
• Pacesetter
What are your goals for the coming year?
I hope to expand my network of accounting and finance professionals in metro Atlanta and develop meaningful relationships with the consultants that I meet. The best connections are made through existing contacts so I aim to maintain consistent communication as I develop my skills in the recruiting market.
How do you plan on balancing your career at HKA / J Curve and free time?
My work in public accounting kept me on the road at least 50% of the year. While I love to travel, I am looking forward to a more traditional work schedule and spending more time at home. HKA / J Curve values a work/life balance and allows me the flexibility to prioritize my work commitments while dedicating quality time to family, friends, and personal endeavors.
Fun Questions
Where are you originally from?
I was born in Fort Worth, Texas and grew up about one hour west in the small town of Mineral Wells. My parents and I moved to Greenville, South Carolina when I was 12 years old, and I relocated to Atlanta in November 2017.
What is your favorite thing to do in Atlanta?
This is a tough one! I enjoy exploring the abundance of amazing restaurants and sampling something new. I live close to Piedmont Park so my dog and I spend a lot of time walking and admiring Atlanta’s beautiful skyline.
What did you originally want to be when you grew up?
Without question, Maria Bartiromo – when I was a kid, my dad kept the television tuned to CNBC, and I idolized her job as the “Money Honey” reporter on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.
What is your favorite television show?
This changes weekly, but it is currently a tie between New Amsterdam and my guilty pleasure, Younger (with Broadway star Sutton Foster).
J Curve, LLC is a Strategic Partner of Atlanta’s premier accounting and finance recruiting firm, Homrich, Klein & Associates. Visit their website to learn more about our full-time accounting and finance opportunities and retained executive search services.
