Akiko Yamamoto
Akiko Yamamoto is an accomplished tax professional with extensive experience in both tax compliance and advisory. Most recently, she served as a Tax Senior Manager at Deloitte, overseeing more than 20 client relationships, guiding teams through complex tax issues, and implementing strategies in line with evolving tax laws. Known for her clear communication and collaborative leadership, Akiko emphasizes honesty and transparency in her work, fostering strong relationships with colleagues and clients alike. Akiko began her career in the insurance industry as an administrative assistant and adjuster before transitioning into accounting and tax. Since 2006, she has built a robust career in tax and accounting/audit, holding senior positions at a Big 4 firm and other organizations, where she honed her expertise in tax modeling, staff training, and regulatory compliance. Her professional journey reflects a commitment to excellence and adaptability, navigating both domestic and international tax landscapes with precision and insight. A graduate of Suffolk University in Boston, Akiko earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting after completing two years of junior college in Japan. Fluent in both English and Japanese, she brings a global perspective to her work, bridging cultures and regulations with ease. Currently, Akiko is exploring new opportunities while taking time to focus on family, continuing to prioritize growth, learning, and meaningful contributions to the field of tax and accounting.
• CPA
• Suffolk University - BS
• AICPA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my father and the example he set. His strong work ethic and dedication taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and sacrifice. From him, I learned the importance of investing time, continuously learning, and cultivating meaningful relationships with colleagues and clients.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is not to be afraid to say, “I don’t know.” It’s important to speak up honestly about what you do and don’t know. Pretending to have all the answers doesn’t help anyone—being transparent allows for learning, collaboration, and building trust with colleagues and clients.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be confident. Acknowledge your accomplishments, take pride in what you’ve learned, and recognize the value of the effort you’ve invested. Never underestimate your abilities or compare yourself to others—trust in your skills and the unique perspective you bring to the table.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field is the constant chance to learn something new every day. Frequent changes in tax laws and the increasing use of technologies—including AI—keep the work dynamic and allow me to continuously expand my expertise.
At the same time, challenges include keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies, especially as a senior professional, and navigating career transitions, such as finding a new role after a layoff. Staying adaptable and committed to lifelong learning has been key to turning these challenges into growth opportunities.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty is the value I hold most important in both my work and personal life. Being transparent about what I know—and what I don’t—builds trust and credibility, and I strive to foster that same level of honesty within my team.
Locations
Peachtree Corners, GA 30092