How CohnReznick’s Innovative Professional Development Programs Propel Employee Success
CohnReznick is a people-first organization that prioritizes creating opportunities for professional development. The company’s structured approach spans from high school introductions to career opportunities through to programs that can elevate individuals to the firm’s partnership or leadership roles across various departments including finance, marketing, operations, IT, and people and culture.
RESOURCES FOR EARLY AND MIDCAREER EMPLOYEES
CohnReznick engages college students with top-tier early career and internship programs. These internships, available to accounting and finance majors from leading universities, often result in full-time job offers before graduation. The firm’s exposure to 30 different industries allows employees to explore various fields, attend industry events and build networks, fostering career mobility and a deeper understanding of client engagements.
The Center for Learning and Development (L&D) is central to CohnReznick’s professional growth strategy. It offers a comprehensive curriculum of on-demand, virtual, and in-person programs. This includes dedicated learning portals for Advisory, Assurance and Tax, as well as mandatory Continuing Professional Education (CPE) training. The NextGen Leadership program mentors rising talent, focusing on skills like networking, business development, and client service.
The Individual Development Track (IDT) program provides a pathway to partnership through customized, self-directed learning and mentoring. Annually, the Executive Board elects new partners from the Advisory, Assurance, and Tax practices, marking the pinnacle of professional development at CohnReznick.
EVOLUTION OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES
As CohnReznick grows geographically and expands its service offerings, it adapts its professional development programs accordingly. The firm has enhanced its digital and virtual learning tools, including online tracks for practice management and industry-specific webinars, to meet the needs of a global, hybrid workforce. This flexibility increases participation and aligns learning with individual schedules.
Continuous learning and upskilling are emphasized, with opportunities designed to close skill gaps and enhance team efficiency. New employees are assigned performance coaches who guide their development beyond initial training and onboarding, offering consistent mentorship throughout their careers.
Professional development at CohnReznick is crucial for delivering the expertise clients rely on. It drives workplace satisfaction and fosters a culture of excellence. This commitment to employee growth is reflected in the firm’s high satisfaction rates, with 92% of employees rating CohnReznick as a great place to work.
CORPORATE CULTURE AND SUPPORT
CohnReznick’s culture emphasizes diversity, inclusivity, and professional growth. The firm supports employees in obtaining external accreditations and encourages participation in events and seminars to develop and enhance soft skills. This holistic approach ensures continuous career progression and personal development.
ATTRACTING AND HIRING YOUNG TALENT
Various paid internships and entry-level positions help CohnReznick attract young talent. As of February 2024, about one-third of client service job openings were entry-level. The firm’s onboarding process for new hires includes an introduction to the firm’s culture and systems, supplemented by a “CR Buddy” system for additional support.
CohnReznick also has a dedicated campus recruiting team and engaging activities including networking opportunities at national sporting events and community service programs. The firm’s effective use of platforms like Handshake, LinkedIn, Vault, and Glassdoor has earned it the Handshake’s 2024 Early Talent Award for the third time. The firm’s highly ranked internship program also plays a critical role in recruiting young professionals, underscoring the firm’s commitment to nurturing future talent. •
