Claudia Copeland
Claudia Copeland is an accomplished accounting professional and remote workforce strategist dedicated to helping accounting firms scale efficiently through nearshore talent solutions. As an Account Manager at SouthDesk, she partners with firms of all sizes to build dependable, cost-effective remote teams comprised of top-tier CPAs, bookkeepers, payroll specialists, and tax support professionals. Her focus is on optimizing performance, reducing overhead, and providing firms with flexible, high-quality staffing that enhances productivity and maintains operational excellence.
Before joining SouthDesk, Claudia built a strong foundation in finance and accounting, serving in leadership roles such as Assistant Controller at Gulf Atlantic Contracting LLC, Auditor for the Florida Auditor General, and Senior Accounting Manager at Gartner. Her experience spans auditing financial statements, managing global accounts receivable operations, and overseeing compliance and risk management for both public and private sector organizations. She holds a Master’s Degree in Accounting & Taxation from Florida Gulf Coast University’s Lutgert College of Business, where she honed her expertise in taxation, auditing, and international financial reporting.
Outside of her professional life, Claudia is a devoted mother of three who values family, fitness, and lifelong learning. She enjoys spending quality time with her children, staying active through Pure Barre workouts, and relaxing with a good mystery or crime thriller. Driven by a passion for helping others succeed, she continues to empower accounting firms to thrive in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven financial landscape.
• Florida Gulf Coast University Lutgert College of Business - MS
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the experiences I’ve gained throughout my life and the hands-on opportunities I had in my field from a young age. Those early experiences gave me a strong foundation and practical understanding that continue to guide me in my work today.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to never give up, always put family first, and set clear goals—but never let work consume your life. Balance and perseverance are key to long-term success and fulfillment.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to always put your family first and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Success is important, but it’s equally vital to nurture the relationships and personal well-being that sustain you along the way.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now is ensuring that the right professionals are matched with the right companies. Finding that perfect fit not only benefits employers but also helps individuals thrive in roles that align with their skills, values, and career goals.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me, both in my work and personal life, are family and character. I believe that staying true to who you are and prioritizing the people you love creates a strong foundation for integrity, balance, and lasting success.