My Name Is Stephanie Becker — This Is Why I Joined Aha!

I am a people person. No matter what it is I am working on, I find happiness and success when I can connect with those around me. This might surprise you — but I knew early on that a career in accounting would allow me to form those connections I craved. I grew up in a family of accountants and saw first-hand the positive impact this type of work can have on others.

I experience more joy when I accomplish something with a group than I do achieving as an individual.

After college, I took an audit associate job at one of the "big four" accounting firms — KPMG. The opportunity meant moving to Anchorage where I traveled all over the state auditing Alaska Native corporations. I gained great experience working with all types of companies, from hotels to commercial fisheries. But what I enjoyed most was the time I spent with the locals in the villages I visited. Their kindness and respect for others deeply impacted me both personally and professionally.

Six months later, I traded the Alaskan wilderness for Washington, D.C. where I worked on one of KPMG's largest multinational technology accounts. I was able to develop connections with some of the world's top accounting professionals. Everyone I met taught me something new. I learned how technology companies approach accounting and the nuances in tax laws from country to country.

I also formed a strong bond with my team. My coworkers and I went through a lot together. I learned how important it is to always be there for the people you work with. But after five years, I began to long for deeper connections with my family in the Pacific Northwest.

So I started to look for job openings in the area. After my positive experiences at KPMG, I knew I wanted to join an exceptional organization that truly made a difference in the lives of others. I also wanted to gain more experience with international tax law. I discovered Aha! while searching for new roles and was inspired by the company's culture and values. And I was impressed by the range of customers that use Aha! to build better products.

I could tell that Aha! actually cared about both customers and the team — this was something I wanted to be a part of.

My experience in the interview process solidified my desire to join the team. Everyone I spoke with was thoughtful and kind. And I was able to speak with a variety of folks during the process to ensure that the role felt right for me. When I received the offer for a tax manager position, I accepted it right away.

It is exciting to be a part of a high-growth company with a global presence. I get to work with customers from all over the world on tax and billing matters. And I conduct research about tax laws in countries in which we are looking to hire or do business. It is rewarding to know that my work directly contributes to our growth.

The camaraderie at Aha! is unlike anything I have ever experienced. On the finance team, we collaborate every day to get work done and find new ways to improve our accounting processes. We always celebrate each other’s professional and personal successes. And we hold each other to high standards because we truly want to see each other succeed.

At Aha! I find meaning in both the work I do and the connections I make with people around me.

I will never forget the people I met on my journey to Aha! — each person taught me something different that has contributed to my professional success. And I am looking forward to forming even more meaningful relationships as Aha! continues to grow.

That is why I joined Aha! — and why you should too.