Learning about a career in valuation and my path to the ABV credential

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I grew up in Uganda and it was expected by my family that I travel to the U.S. to get my advanced education. At university, I studied finance and applied mathematics and did not have any awareness that a career in business valuation was something that could be pursued. After college, I began down the path of investment analysis and attended events hosted by the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute. It was during one of those events that a friend told me about the business valuation track, which incorporated what I enjoyed about corporate finance. My first role in forensic accounting and business valuation services involved working on engagements for matrimonial dissolution, estate and gift taxes, and transaction purposes. My path wasn’t always smooth. I didn’t have consistent training or mentorship early in my career, therefore much of my advancement came through self-study. I was determined to fill knowledge gaps, which eventually led me to pursue the Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV®) credential.

Why I chose the ABV credential

I do not have a CPA, but I was able to pursue the ABV credential after the AICPA opened it to qualified finance professionals in 2017. What attracted me was the extensive resources that the AICPA provides, such as the

ABV body of knowledge, which includes textbooks from respected experts;
AICPA FVS section library; and
materials specific to forensic accounting and litigation support, covering areas such as lost profits, matrimonial dissolution, and post-M&A disputes.

The ability to study these resources at my own pace was invaluable, especially since many employers aren’t inclined to fund business valuation training for junior associates.

The importance of mentorship

I was fortunate to eventually find a mentor who guided me through the intricacies of divorce engagements. This mentor involved me deeply in the work, which gave me the confidence to testify as an expert witness with just three years of experience, something I wouldn’t have thought possible at the time.

When it came to networking, my mentor advised me to stay true to myself. As an introvert, I find large group settings draining, so my mentor encouraged me to focus on 1:1 meetings and writing, which align more naturally with my strengths. This advice has paid off well.

Learning about a career in valuation and my path to the ABV credential

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