Shay E. Simpson
Shay E. Simpson is a seasoned accounting and financial systems professional with over 22 years of experience helping organizations optimize their financial operations. Currently, she serves as a Sage Intacct Technical Account Manager at LBMC Technology Solutions in Knoxville, Tennessee, where she acts as a strategic advisor and primary technical liaison for clients. In this role, Shay guides organizations in streamlining processes, improving month-end close efficiency, and leveraging the full capabilities of Sage Intacct, ensuring both accuracy and long-term value.
Shay’s career spans a diverse range of accounting and finance roles, including thirteen years as Senior Accountant at Regal Entertainment Group, three years as Controller at Bandit Lites, Inc., and multiple years providing ERP implementation and consulting services. Her expertise bridges traditional accounting practices with modern technology, allowing her to communicate complex financial concepts clearly while solving technical challenges. Shay is certified as a Sage Intacct Accounting Specialist, Sage Intacct Implementation Specialist, and Velixo Consultant, reflecting her deep commitment to technical proficiency and client success.
Passionate about mentoring and professional growth, Shay encourages young women in accounting to build confidence, believe in themselves, and step outside their comfort zones. She emphasizes compassion, trustworthiness, sincerity, and humility as the core values guiding her work and personal life. Outside of her professional role, Shay has contributed to the accounting community through leadership in the Dynamics AX User Group and maintains active membership in professional associations such as Tennessee MGMA and Financial Executives International. Her career is defined by a balance of technical expertise, client-focused service, and dedication to fostering the next generation of finance professionals.
• Velixo Certified Partner Consultant
• Sage Intacct Accounting Specialist Certification
• Sage Intacct Implementation Specialist
• East Tennessee State University – Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.), Accounting and Finance
• Milligan College – Accounting and Finance
• Tim Foltz Rookie of the Year Award
• Tennessee MGMA
• Accounting and Financial Women’s Alliance
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to genuinely enjoying my work and maintaining a true passion for helping our clients. When you love what you do, it stops feeling like a task and instead becomes a source of motivation - it drives you to excel, continually grow, and consistently deliver meaningful value.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is to believe in yourself, never settle, and keep moving forward by embracing opportunities outside your comfort zone. That mindset has shaped my career, helping me navigate complex challenges, grow through change, and continue evolving both professionally and personally.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women to believe in themselves, build confidence early, and resist the urge to be their own toughest critic. Growth comes from giving yourself grace while still striving to learn and improve. I’d also stress the importance of compassion, especially when serving clients Take the time to understand their perspective. When you approach your work with empathy and professionalism, you not only strengthen relationships but also become a more effective and trusted partner.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
A key challenge in our field is the declining number of young professionals entering accounting. At the same time, there is a significant opportunity in the growing intersection of accounting and technology. Women in accounting can make a meaningful impact by building confidence in this area and embracing the technological advancements shaping the future of the profession.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Trustworthiness, sincerity, and humility guide both my professional and personal life, ensuring that I deliver meaningful work and build authentic relationships with colleagues and clients.