A Great Story - Roger G. Arrieux Jr.

Roger G. Arrieux, Jr. has devoted over 20 years to Deloitte as an audit partner, as well as contributing to the firm’s recruitment, and diversity and inclusion initiatives. However, before diving into his career, Roger was unsure of exactly what he wanted to do upon entering college.

“I have always had high aspirations, have gone above and beyond what is necessary to achieve professional success, including taking on extra work and more responsibility” said Roger.

His initial major was business, but in the 1980s, that general field did not yield enough job security for Roger’s comfort level. Through discussions with professors and mentors, he was counseled to consider the accounting field. There was security in the profession, as well as a variety of avenues he could explore to expand his knowledge and interests.

“Accounting was a field I had no prior knowledge or interest in before college. Looking back, I am truly grateful for the guidance I received steering me to this profession.”

Upon graduation, Roger accepted a position with a Big 8 public accounting firm with a focus on audit, which gave him the opportunity to serve a variety of clients. After a few years in public accounting he took a position with a private company for a more stable work/life balance. While it was less hectic, Roger missed the variety of clients and people. He then joined Deloitte’s audit team where he remains today.

As an individual of Haitian descent, Roger understands the challenges that diverse, underrepresented minorities encounter, which is what drove him to be not only a leader within Deloitte’s strategic Inclusion initiatives, but also joining the AICPA Diversity and Inclusion Committee.

“Being comfortable with a large variety of situations with different people is important,” said Roger. “To surround yourself with like individuals does not position you for success. Like-minded individuals tend to bring similar solutions. That is not what we desire.”

Roger’s advice to new CPAs in the profession is to invest in yourself, understand the industry, go beyond what is expected, and build a broad, meaningful network of professionals.

“Always know who it is that you are and what it takes to achieve the success that you desire,” said Roger. “Helping others to succeed helps you succeed.”