Influential Woman · Public accounting tax and advisory
Faye Woodard
Founder, Woodard and Associates CPA
San Diego, CA 92108
Her Story
About Faye
My professional journey has been both rewarding and uniquely shaped by international experience. I began my career in the Philippines, where I earned my CPA designation, before relocating to San Diego, California in 2009 through an employer-sponsored work visa. From there, I advanced steadily in public accounting, earning promotions, expanding my expertise, and gaining valuable experience with national and Big Four firms.
In 2023, I took the next step in my career by establishing my own firm. Today, as the owner of my practice, I oversee client engagements, manage projects with my team, and ensure the highest level of quality in our work. My daily focus centers on delivering responsive service, guiding clients through complex financial matters, and identifying strategic opportunities to legally minimize tax liabilities.
One of my greatest professional achievements is building an independent practice after years of dedicated effort honing my technical skills and industry experience. I take particular pride in serving my community and helping clients preserve their hard-earned income through thoughtful, compliant tax strategies.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Faye
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith and to the support of my family. My husband is my number one fan and he's always telling me I should tell more of my story. The combination of my faith and the support of my family has been essential to everything I've achieved in my career.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the best career advice that I've ever received is to stay humble, despite how much you've achieved in your life. This advice has stayed with me throughout my journey and continues to guide me in both my professional and personal interactions.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice would be to embrace discomfort rather than avoid it. In my experience, the greatest opportunities for growth and success come when you're willing to push beyond your comfort zone.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I view the rise of AI and emerging technologies as a significant opportunity for the accounting profession rather than a threat. When integrated thoughtfully into operations, processes, and practice management, technology can enhance efficiency, improve accuracy, and ultimately elevate the level of service we provide to clients. For firms that are willing to embrace innovation, AI can be a powerful tool for growth and scalability.
That said, one of the most pressing challenges facing the profession today is talent acquisition and retention. Skilled and experienced accountants are in high demand, yet increasingly scarce. Identifying and retaining high-quality professionals remains a constant priority, as strong human capital is essential to delivering exceptional client service and sustaining long-term success.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
One of the core values that is most important to me is integrity. It is fundamental to the accounting profession, and it is equally significant in my personal life. I believe integrity means consistently doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. This principle guides my decisions, shapes my professional conduct, and serves as the foundation for how I interact with clients, colleagues, and my community.
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