CPFO Spotlight: Lauren Rider
Lauren Rider, CPA, CPFO, is treasury accounting manager for Stafford County, Virginia.
1. Why did you want to become a CPFO?
In 2021, I transitioned from corporate accounting to government accounting. Shortly after starting at Stafford County, I had the honor of working with an extremely bright CFO that had his CPFO designation (Jon Munch). I was intrigued by his vast knowledge of government finance and so I decided to pursue the designation myself.
2. What did you learn going through the process?
I learned a lot of accounting rules and regulations that are specific to government accounting and how they impact our local government and its citizens.
3. How has becoming a CPFO made an impact on you in your profession?
Becoming a CPFO has helped me serve the citizens of Stafford County proficiently and consider the impacts of our financial decisions from a bigger picture.
4. What would you say to others thinking about becoming a CPFO?
If you are not sure you are ready to start on your CPFO I would recommend taking just one course related to the program and once you realize how much you gained from just one course, I know you will see the benefits the program has to offer.