Chris Zach, CPA

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” ~Romans 8:28

After earning his master’s and bachelor’s degrees in accounting from Oklahoma State University, passing the CPA exam and working three years in the accounting industry, Chris Zach, CPA, made the decision to redirect his career path. “While this was one of the most difficult

decisions my family and I have ever made, we knew it was the right one,” said Zach, a marketing specialist with BKD CPAs & Advisors in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. “I spent a lot of time reflecting and asking myself what I was passionate about – and had personal talents and gifts for – and I decided on marketing.” Zach took an unpaid marketing and public

relations internship with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and made a connection with Todd Lisle, CPA, ABV, CIA, a managing partner with BKD CPAs & Advisors. Zach found out there was an opening for a marketing professional and Lisle gave him the opportunity to pursue a new career. “Chris’s transition certainly is not typical.”

Chris’s Trail mix

If I weren’t a CPA, I would be: A sports anchor or journalist

You’ll never catch me wearing: Crocs

Do you have any quirky talents? Kermit the Frog voice

What’s your personal theme song? “Redeemed” – Big Daddy Weave

Lisle said. “In fact, he has forged a new path for himself, BKD, the profession and others who may want to try something new and take a risk, making him the very epitome of a Trailblazer.” “In these few short years, I have been

pushed and challenged so much to try new things, and while that hasn’t always been comfortable, it has grown and stretched me tremendously both professionally and personally,” Zach said. “I have learned so many things in this new role, particularly that

you have to invest in a personal relationship before your coworkers will extend trust.” “I want others to know they are capable

of more than they might believe or have been told,” Zach said. “I also want others to know that it’s OK – and much more rewarding – to give up a higher salary, corner office or next promotion if you jump paths to where you are meant to be, thriving and making a difference.” An OSCPA member for four years, Zach

currently serves on the OSCPA Financial Literacy and Public Relations Committees. He is also the secretary of the OSCPA Oklahoma City Chapter. Additionally, Zach is a member of the Public Relations Society of America Oklahoma City Chapter, the Leadership Oklahoma City Alumni Association, Noon Express Club of Toastmasters International and the Association for Accounting Marketing. Zach has volunteered with the American

Heart Association Heart Walk, the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, the Curbside Chronicle, Leadership Oklahoma City, NewView Oklahoma and Crossings Community Church. “[Zach’s] influence also has considerable

reach, earning him respect across the entire firm in various additional capacities outside of our local practice,” Lisle said. “He is one of the most driven individuals in our entire practice, and it always amazes me what he has been able to accomplish with us in his time already.” Zach said, “While I don’t audit financials

anymore, I am still a CPA—a standard bearer, advocate and steadfast supporter of the profession.”

March/April 2016 CPAFOCUS 33