Jean Stephens
Chief Executive Officer

Biography

In January 2006, Jean became Chief Executive Officer of RSM International after joining the Network in 1996.

As Global Chief Executive Officer, Jean's responsibilities are the implementation of organisational strategies for the growth and development of the Network. Since 2006, RSM has grown by 163% through acquisition and organic growth under Jean's leadership. Prior to the onset of the pandemic, Jean spent over 70% of her time on international business trips, meeting with senior leaders from RSM’s Member Firms around the world. Since the pandemic Jean's commitment to engaging with Member Firms globally has remained undiminished through proactively embracing the virtual environment. During 2015, Jean oversaw the implementation of the newly unified global brand name and logo that is now used by Member Firms in 100 countries.

RSM Timeline of achievements

2021 - Oversaw growth of 15.8% to $7.26bn 
2015 - Launched the new unified RSM global brand 
2006 - Appointed Global CEO of RSM International 
1996 - Joined RSM International as Chief Operating Officer 
1994 - Joined RSM US (formerly McGladrey) 

Under Jean's leadership, RSM has developed many major global initiatives to drive the implementation and continuous improvement of RSM’s global client services. In 2007, Jean established the RSM Academy. This highly rated international leadership programme develops the international skills of RSM's future leaders, with emphasis on cultural issues, international issues facing clients, the team approach to serving clients at the highest level and using a foundation of quality as the base for successful and sustainable growth. In 2012, the programme was expanded with the edition of a two-year International Tax Academy programme. 2021 saw this long-standing programme tailored to the remote environment to make it an immersive virtual experience for nearly 300 participants globally.

“Disruption brings change and we have all entered a new era – let’s embrace the opportunity as we move forward in a more purposeful, new business age.”

Jean is passionate about encouraging the use of cultural differences for the benefit of international development. She is also interested in using her international experiences to promote the development of our young professionals.

Jean has previously appeared on both TV and radio broadcasts including CNBC and BBC Radio 4.

Professional Affiliations/Awards

Jean has held leadership positions in a variety of organisations including the San Bernardino Chamber of Commerce, Rotary International, United Way, YWCA and the Inland Empire Symphony.

Jean has received the Athena Award for Outstanding Business Woman - San Bernardino Area Chamber of Commerce and is also a recipient of the California State University Alumni of the Year Award. In May 2009, Jean received an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from her Alma Mater, University of Redlands, in recognition of her international career with RSM.

In 2021, as an alumnus of California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), Jean was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters by California State University, San Bernardino in recognition of being the first woman Global Chief Executive Officer to lead a top 10 global accounting Network and for her associated achievements in this position.

Jean is a member of the AICPA.

Education

Jean has a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and a Masters degree in Finance. She qualified as a Certified Public Accountant in 1984.

CEO Interview

As we enter a new and transformative business age, characterised by data-driven and digital-centric products and services, new approaches to working, and a clear focus on sustainability and purpose, RSM International CEO, Jean Stephens, reflects on 2022 and shares RSM’s vision and global strategy to 2030 – Take Charge of Change.