Andersen Alumni Association, working with its sponsor, BGS Consulting, has begun an going series “Alumni Reflections” highlighting members’ reflections. We would like to thank Alumnus and Former Managing Partner, Marc E. Andersen, for sharing his reflections in this issue of our newsletter. Today Marc serves as the Assistant Secretary of the US Army, Financial Management and Comptroller. He is the principal advisor to the Secretary of the Army and Senior Army leadership on all matters related to Budget, Financial Management, Strategy and Comptrollership. He is responsible for optimally resourcing the Army to fight and win our Nation's Wars.
1. How did your career at Andersen begin? What office(s) did you work in and for how long?
I joined Arthur Andersen after I sold a software Firm that I cofounded. I joined the Tysons, VA office in 1999 and was there until we transitioned to EY in 2002. I thought it would be interesting to work on a large-scale platform, with deep talent, serve amazing clients and leverage my audit and financial background.
2. How did your Andersen experience influence your leadership style and decision-making process?
Think Straight, Talk Straight (say no more)! My experience at Andersen reinforced one of my core values and priorities; it’s all about People.
3. What specific lessons or principles from your time at Andersen do you still apply in your current role?
I was blessed to have the opportunity to work with truly talented, and remarkable people. CE Andrews, Carl Berquist and many others took an interest in me and my career and supported my growth and development. That investment helped me to prioritize making the same investment in others – which has been one of if not the most rewarding things in my professional career and life.
4. How do you believe Andersen’s culture influenced your perspectives on organizational culture and employee engagement within your current organization?
Andersen’s culture is still alive and strong today because of the investment in relationships and prioritizing people that sustains. We get farther faster together than ever going alone. Taking the time to invest in your People and Team will always drive greater outcomes.
5. What strategies or techniques did you learn at Andersen that you continue to use in identifying and developing talent within your organization?
Take the time to understand people, what drives and motivates them and then their willingness to be part of a Team First. Understanding that we will accomplish more together and that willingness then to commit that path is the mindset required to succeed. Match that then with the values of honesty, integrity and determination and you can achieve almost anything.
6. What is your fondest memory from your time at Andersen?
The People, and its not even close. Friends made then are friends today, and it’s been great to see their continued success throughout the years.