Date of Conferral

8-24-2026

Date of Award

August 2026

Degree

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

School

Management

Advisor

Douglas Gilbert

Abstract

The inability of accounting leaders to recruit skilled accountants can negatively affect a business's profitability. Chief financial officers and accounting leaders who struggle to recruit accountants are at risk of business instability due to a shortage of skilled applicants. The purpose of this qualitative pragmatic inquiry was to explore successful strategies accounting firm leaders used to recruit skilled accountants in North Carolina. This research project was grounded in transformational leadership framework and the decision field theory. The participants in this study consisted of five chief financial officers working at accounting firms who were able to recruit accountants. Data were collected using semistructured interviews and literature resources. Thematic analysis identified two themes: (a) resume review and communication and (b) job description and job requirements. A key recommendation for chief financial officers and accounting leaders is to implement a strategic approach to recruiting and retaining skilled accountants by offering flexible work models and reducing the time to hire. The implications for positive social change include the potential for business practices to develop better recruitment strategies and select skilled candidates for hire, which may increase organizations' clients, profitability, and employment opportunities for accountants.

Download

Share

 
COinS