Chief Innovation Officer

Opportunity:
Our client in Cleveland, OH is seeking a Chief Innovation Officer (CINO) to lead enterprise innovation, digital transformation, and technology modernization. This executive role drives the adoption of emerging technologies, improves operational efficiency, enhances client service delivery, and supports long-term growth. The CINO will guide strategic initiatives across audit, tax, advisory, and internal business functions while promoting a culture of innovation throughout the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute an enterprise innovation strategy aligned with organizational goals, growth targets, and client service standards.

• Identify, evaluate, and implement emerging technologies—AI, automation, analytics, cloud, workflow tools—to modernize audit, tax, and advisory services within a public accounting environment.

• Partner with service line leaders to redesign workflows, streamline processes, and co-develop digital tools that improve accuracy, efficiency, and client value.

• Integrate innovation into day-to-day operations to create new service offerings and generate revenue opportunities.

• Lead digital transformation across the firm, including process improvement, automation, and modernization of legacy systems.

• Establish KPIs, measure ROI, and report performance of innovation initiatives related to efficiency, client satisfaction, revenue growth, and employee engagement.

• Manage technology portfolios, capital budgets, and vendor relationships; ensure cost optimization, scalability, and alignment with regulatory requirements.

• Monitor industry trends, regulatory updates (e.g., PCAOB, AICPA, IRS), and emerging technologies affecting the public accounting profession.

• Build partnerships with technology vendors, startups, universities, and industry organizations to evaluate new solutions and strengthen competitive advantage.

• Lead enterprise change management to support adoption of new tools, technologies, and digital practices across audit, tax, and advisory teams.

• Coordinate with HR and learning teams to develop upskilling and reskilling programs focused on digital fluency, AI literacy, automation, and transformation readiness.

• Ensure all innovation programs meet public accounting standards related to independence, confidentiality, cybersecurity, data privacy, and risk management.

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Experience

• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in public accounting, consulting, professional services, or innovation strategy .

• Strong understanding of the CPA profession , including audit, tax, advisory services, and public accounting regulatory requirements.

• Hands-on experience leading digital transformation , technology modernization, and adoption of emerging technologies (AI, automation, analytics, cloud).

• Deep knowledge of data governance, risk management, cybersecurity, and compliance within regulated environments.

• Proven track record implementing scalable solutions such as AI-driven workflows, automation platforms, data warehouses, and cloud-based architecture.

• Demonstrated success managing technology portfolios, budgets , and ROI-driven initiatives.

• Strong executive communication skills with the ability to influence partners, service line leaders, and cross-functional teams.

• Experience presenting innovation strategies to senior leadership, boards, or partner groups.

• Demonstrated thought leadership (industry speaking, publications, client or leadership presentations).

• Experience building and managing high-performing teams, including cross-functional innovation teams.

• Strong background integrating technology solutions into audit, assurance, and financial reporting environments.

• Detail-oriented, analytical, and capable of making independent decisions in fast-paced, complex environments.

• CPA, MBA, MS in Information Systems, or related technical certification preferred.

• Additional credentials in Lean Six Sigma, digital strategy, AI, automation, or design thinking are a plus.