One of my favorite vacations to this day was in Jamaica. It might have something to do with the fact that my husband and I got married on the beach there!”
Alisha Watkins
Partner, CPA
Experience
I lead our firm’s governmental practice working with our team of over 200 governmental professionals to serve our clients through compliance requirements, operational best practices, financial forecasts, and strategic initiatives. I’m also responsible for staff supervision, development, and advancement, which are among my favorite role responsibilities.
The value that I provide to my clients is what makes my job truly rewarding. They appreciate that my top priority is providing them an exceptional experience.
After more than two decades with Plante Moran, some of my greatest accomplishments include being part of the leadership team, promoting diversity initiatives at the firm, and supporting the advancement of talented staff and future firm leaders. I’m also proud to have dedicated a significant portion of my practice over the last decade to serving our healthcare clients in the senior care and living industry, as well as leading our Southfield office assurance staff over the past four years. I appreciate the many ways in which these experiences have contributed to positioning me for my current role leading the governmental practice.
I’ve been featured in an article about diversity in the workplace for Crain’s Detroit, was awarded the Michigan Association of CPA’s “Women to Watch-Emerging Leader” award, and was recently named to Forbes-Best-in-State Top CPA’s List.
I often speak to clients and their boards about accounting and legislative matters affecting their businesses and how to position themselves for future success. I’ve also spoken at industry association events, on topics like cash flow management, internal controls, fraud, regulatory compliance, and preparing for industry changes.
I received my B.B.A. in accounting from Heidelberg University in Tiffin, Ohio, and my M.Acc. from Walsh College. I’m a member of the American Association of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the Michigan Association of CPAs (MICPA); the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) the Michigan Government Finance Officers Association (MGFOA), the Special Districts Association (SDA) of Colorado, and the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA).
Outside of work, I love to spend my time with family and friends, including my husband, Durand, and our son and daughter. I also enjoy traveling and reading.
