Marybeth Grimsley
Marybeth Grimsley is an accomplished accounting professional based in Nashville, Tennessee, currently serving as Assurance Manager at . They began their academic journey as a mathematics major with aspirations in actuarial science, but a growing interest in accounting led them to pursue a Master’s in Accounting at , focusing on Audit and Assurance. This shift introduced them to public accounting, where they discovered a unique combination of analytical rigor and practical problem-solving that aligned with their skills and interests.
Marybeth launched their career at , gaining extensive experience with middle-market clients and rising to the role of senior. After a brief tenure in private accounting with a dental support organization, they returned to public accounting, joining . Over nearly three years, Marybeth has helped grow the Nashville audit team from four to eight members and transitioned into a leadership role, mentoring staff and seniors while fostering a culture that balances professional excellence with mental health and work-life priorities. Their expertise centers on audit and assurance for manufacturing and distribution clients, emphasizing both technical precision and people-focused leadership.
Outside of work, Marybeth is deeply engaged in their community and committed to supporting causes such as Planned Parenthood and the American Civil Liberties Union. They enjoy spending time with their spouse, Philip, and their pets, exploring movies, kayaking at the Narrows of the Harpeth, and engaging with friends through board games. Their professional philosophy blends high-caliber accounting work with a supportive and sustainable work environment, demonstrating that success in public accounting can coexist with personal fulfillment and community impact.
• Lipscomb University - M.Acc.
• TSCPA
• Women's Leadership Committee
• Lipscomb Alumni Organization
• Planned Parenthood (monthly donor)
• American Civil Liberties Union
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the mentors and leaders I’ve had throughout my career who prioritized people over outputs. Those who genuinely cared about me as a person, rather than solely focusing on what I could produce, made a profound impact on my growth. Their example taught me the value of empathy and human connection—principles I strive to embody in my own leadership style today.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: don’t blend in. Some of the most impactful moments in my career and personal life have come from unapologetically being myself. Don’t try to be who society expects, or who you think others want to see—whether it’s an interviewer, a client, a teacher, or even a friend. The most meaningful relationships and opportunities come when you lead with authenticity. Constantly trying to fit in can dull your unique spark, and it’s far too easy to lose sight of who you truly are if you don’t honor it.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field right now is navigating AI. While it’s a powerful tool for tasks like reviewing complex documents, it can’t replace the judgment, independence, and objectivity auditing requires. This shift also means we’ve had to rethink how we train staff, asking better questions and providing more hands-on guidance. On top of that, professionalism is evolving post-COVID, and we need to help newer professionals understand subtle client-facing norms in a constantly changing landscape.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are positivity, clarity, and curiosity. I try to approach each day with a lighthearted mindset—my motto is, “It’s a good day to have a good day”—because joy and love in daily life make challenges more manageable. I believe clear communication is an essential form of kindness, both in holding others accountable and being held accountable myself. I also see healthy confrontation as an act of care and growth. Finally, I value knowledge and curiosity, and I strive to use my mind fully, think critically, and form my own informed conclusions.
Locations
Aprio, LLP
Nashville, TN 37203