For someone whose life revolves around numbers, it’s not surprising that CPA Toni McCord is delighted to celebrate 22 successful years on February 22^nd, 2022. Of course, she credits her amazing clients and her professional staff for supporting the success of Shirley “Toni” McCord, CPA, APAC.

Toni McCord started her accounting career in 1988, and became the sole owner of Shirley “Toni” McCord, CPA, a Professional Accounting Corporation in 2000. Her firm, which still serves clients of the original owner, is currently an all-woman team of accounting professionals dedicated to assisting individuals and small-to-medium size businesses throughout the Greater New Orleans region.

Crediting her parents as a key influence, Toni shared that her mother was a tax accountant and her father was a computer programmer. They both demonstrated the importance of a strong work ethic and dedication.  She keeps their pictures on her desk as a constant reminder to continue to conduct herself in a way that would make them proud of the professional she has become.

31 years of experience have provided comprehensive knowledge in areas from tax planning and return preparation to tax problems resolution and IRS representation.  Getting to know their clients’ needs, challenges and desires, and applying smart strategies to help them achieve their personal and professional goals is how the McCord team delivers national expertise with an exceptional, boutique experience.

As for leadership style, Toni has always believed in participative management.  She would never ask anyone to do anything that she would not do and will never ask anyone to work harder than she is willing to work herself. Toni says, “Having your name on the door or owning a business does not make you better – it means you are responsible for setting a good example.”

Toni considers her personal and professional life to be blended.  She believes how she conducts her personal life reflects on her professional life and vice versa.    “The decisions I make personally have a direct effect on my ability to be a good professional and the decisions I make professionally benefit me personally,” says Toni.    There are times when her professional life demands all of her time and attention and there are others when she can relax and have more fun.  Toni considers she now has the ability to work hard and have fun in the right proportions.

Believing no one should have to choose between a great family life and a wonderful career, her firm cultivates an environment that recognizes a positive work ethic, and fosters support and flexibility for employees.

The McCord firm also supports the community—firstly, through helping small and medium businesses thrive financially; secondly, through membership in professional organizations including the Louisiana Society of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants; and finally through the many boards and professional organizations on which she serves.

When asked about advice she gives, Toni shared the best piece of advice she ever received was from a former boss – he told her to “save something every month”. This is often the best piece of advice that she also gives. “Saving for the future is very important no matter how small the amount is.  You have to start somewhere,” says Toni. “I tell people no matter how small the amount, it is better than not saving anything at all.”