2020 Ones to Watch: Tal Reichman, KPMG LLP

Name: Tal Reichman

Company: KPMG LLP

Title: Managing Director, Audit

Education: Bachelor of Science, University of Maryland

Which project, deal, or transaction was the “game-changer” in the advancement of your career?
Early in my career, I was fortunate to work with a real estate client that was a significant player at the time, but has now become a premier global real estate company. As the company grew, I was laser focused on providing exceptional client service, which has led to great opportunities for us as firm and for me personally in the advancement in my career. If you are always thinking about the needs of your clients it becomes easy to find ways to ensure you are constantly adding value. It is that mentality that is needed to be successful.

How do you contribute to your community or your profession?
I live in the Madison N.J. and coach my 11-year-old son’s local basketball team. It’s a great opportunity to not only get to know the kids and parents in the community, but also a chance to have a positive impact on their lives, while spending time with my son. This is my second year coaching and its great seeing the boys grow and develop both on and off the court, and to know that I had some part in that, feels great.

What led you to your current profession?
I don’t have the typical public accounting background. I don’t even have an accounting degree! I started my career as a computer programmer, quickly realizing that I craved more human interaction. Sometimes at a young age, it takes some time to really understand your strengths and how to maximize them. I always had a passion for understanding business, especially real estate. This led me to join a regional accounting firm in Baltimore that specialized in real estate. While working, I took my accounting classes at a community college in order to sit for the CPA exam. Once I got my CPA license, I moved to N.Y. and joined the KPMG Real Estate practice and found my home ever since.

What do you like most about your job?
I get an opportunity each and every day to collaborate with some of the most talented and innovative people across all areas of our business at both the firm and my clients. I truly love being part of a team that share ideas and inspires me to be better tomorrow than I am today.

What can our political leaders do to increase equality in the workplace?
I think in order to combat inequality in the workplace, we must first focus on the education inequality of the students in our country. We need to advance policies and investment money to ensure not only that we have great teachers with the right resources to meet the needs of their students, but also a strong community and school system with aligned priorities.

Who or what inspires you?
My parents. They came to this country from Israel with little money in their pocket and worked hard to raise three kids who never had a need or even a want growing up. As a first generation in this country, I have always been inspired by their work ethic and learned that with determination, grit and a good education, you can do just about anything. Thanks Mom and Dad!

If your life were made into a movie, what actor would you want to portray you?
Edward Norton. 

What social media platform do you use the most professionally?
LinkedIn.