At The Marston Group, developing future leaders is an ongoing commitment. That commitment was on display this month, when Francisco Trujillo, CPA and senior associate at The Marston Group, participated in the Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants’ (TSCPA) Leadership, Empowerment, and Accelerated Development (LEAD) Program, sponsored by the TSCPA Memphis Chapter.
Designed for accounting professionals age 35 and younger, the LEAD program equips emerging leaders with the tools, perspective, and confidence needed to grow into expanded roles within the profession. For Francisco, the experience provided both structured leadership development and valuable time to reflect on his next steps as a developing professional.
The 2025 LEAD cohort brought together 21 accounting professionals from across the state for three days of intensive learning and collaboration. Participants earned 16 continuing professional education (CPE) credits while engaging in sessions focused on leadership foundations, essential leadership skills, and strategies for advancing to the next level in their careers. The program also included two networking events, offering meaningful opportunities to connect with peers who share similar goals and challenges.
Francisco found the program especially impactful in how it blended practical leadership tools with thoughtful discussion around personal growth. Sessions encouraged participants to better understand their leadership styles, strengthen communication, and approach leadership with intention – increasingly important for client-facing, relationship-driven accounting.
Through group discussions and interactive exercises, participants were challenged to think beyond technical expertise and consider the broader role leadership plays within firms, teams, and the profession as a whole. Equally valuable was the opportunity to build relationships with peers from across Tennessee. The LEAD program created space for open dialogue, shared experiences, and connection, an important reminder that leadership development does not happen in isolation.
Francisco’s participation reflects TMG’s broader investment in its people. Supporting opportunities like the LEAD program allows team members to sharpen their skills, expand their perspective, and bring fresh insight back to the firm. As the accounting profession continues to evolve, cultivating strong, thoughtful leaders remains essential.
We’re proud to support Francisco as he continues to grow in his career and contribute to the culture of leadership, collaboration, and excellence that defines The Marston Group.