As part of our countdown to RSM Puerto Rico’s 50th Anniversary, we sat down with Ricardo Carrillo Bravo, the firm’s newest Consulting Principal. We talked about his journey, the lessons he has learned over the past 13 years, and his vision for the future of RSM.

 

Tell us a little about yourself. Who is Ricardo outside of the office?

I’m someone who has always been curious, driven, and focused on continuous learning. Professionally, I’m an Industrial Engineer with an MBA, a Professional Engineer (PE) license, and a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

Outside of my professional life, I’m a husband and the father of a four-year-old son who shares my name. My family is my greatest source of support and motivation, and they keep me grounded in everything I do.

As for hobbies, I’m a huge film enthusiast. I even keep track of the movies I have watched in an app. I also enjoy reading, especially non-fiction such as biographies, leadership, business, and technology books. Setting aside some time to exercise a few times a week is also a source of stress relief. These are the things that help me recharge and maintain balance.

Ultimately, if I could pick the perfect day, I would begin by reading in the morning, working out, going to see a movie, and then have a nice dinner with my family.

How did you join RSM, and what led you to partnership?

My journey to RSM was unexpected. I was working in another industry and not looking for a new role when Rodrigo Morell reached out about an opportunity at the firm. He had received my email through CIAPR (one of his clients) where I am a member, so you could call it luck.

What immediately caught my attention was the opportunity to work across different clients and industries, solve varied challenges, and continue learning and growing.

I joined RSM in December 2013 as a Senior Consultant, initially focused on business and process reengineering projects. Over time, I had opportunities to get involved in ERP implementations and technology, took on training, joined projects, and gradually developed expertise in that field.

Looking back, the past 13 years have brought continuous learning, growth, and many challenges. Nothing happened overnight. Every step required time, effort, and persistence, and that journey prepared me for where I am today.

What did becoming a partner mean to you?

Honestly, I’m still processing it (laughs).

It’s a goal I had been working toward for several years, and it represents the result of a lot of hard work, sacrifice, and commitment. There are long hours, business travel, time away from my family, and countless challenges behind that achievement.

It also reminds me how many people have supported me along the way, from mentors and colleagues to clients and, most importantly, my family.

At the same time, I don’t see it as a finish line. It feels more like the beginning of a new chapter. Reaching this milestone is rewarding because it validates the work that got me here, but it also comes with greater responsibilities and new goals to pursue.

What message would you give to young professionals who aspire to build a career at RSM Puerto Rico?

I would encourage them to think long term. Today, there is often pressure to move quickly from one opportunity to the next. But building a meaningful career takes time, consistency, and a willingness to keep learning. Growth does not happen overnight, and every stage of your development has a purpose.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of having open and honest conversations about your career goals. Throughout my time at RSM, I’ve been fortunate to work with leaders who were willing to listen, provide guidance, and discuss what my future within the firm could look like.

That is one of the things I value most about the firm. We have an open-door culture, leaders who are approachable, and mentorship opportunities that help people grow professionally. The support is there, but you also have to do your part. Success requires initiative, hard work, continuous learning, and a genuine commitment to your craft.

If you’re willing to invest in your own growth and take advantage of the opportunities around you, RSM can be a place where you build a truly rewarding long-term career.

Who has had the biggest influence on your professional and personal development?

Within the firm, Rodrigo Morell, retired Consulting Principal, has had a tremendous impact on my career. He recruited me and helped shape much of my technical development in ERP systems, business processes, and technology consulting.

I would also highlight Indhira Caraballo, Consulting Senior Director, from whom I learned a great deal about communication, project management, and client service. She was always willing to provide guidance and support, and before we had an official mentoring program, she filled that role for me.

And of course, Pepe Gómez, Consulting Principal and Division Director. He helped me develop a broader strategic mindset and encouraged me to approach client relationships not only from a technical perspective, but as a trusted business advisor.

On a personal level, I would start with my parents. They instilled in me the value of education, discipline, and hard work. They made many personal sacrifices to give me opportunities they did not have growing up, and much of what I’ve accomplished is rooted in the values they taught me.

My wife has been my partner throughout this journey (even from the moment I received that email) and has been a rock for our family, especially during these last few years of hard work and business travel.

And finally, my son. From the moment he was born, it completely changed my perspective on life and success. It reminded me that the journey is no longer just about personal goals, but also about the example I set, the values I pass on, and the future I help build for our family.

What has kept you at RSM all these years?

The first thing is the variety and constant learning. No two days are the same. There are always different industries, different clients, and new challenges to solve, which keeps the work dynamic and pushes me to continue growing professionally.

I also value the culture of the firm. Throughout my career here, I’ve worked in a positive, collaborative environment surrounded by people who genuinely want to help each other succeed.

And something I’ve always appreciated is our commitment to doing the right things the right way. Integrity isn’t just a value on paper. It’s reflected in how we work, how we make decisions, and how we serve our clients every day.

As RSM’s newest partner, what do you believe you bring to the leadership team?

I think I bring a perspective that blends the best of two worlds.

I have a deep appreciation for the principles and leadership styles that helped build this firm, but I can also relate to how newer generations view work, career growth, and leadership.

I also bring a strong technological background. My experience in digital transformation, business applications, and emerging technologies allows me to contribute to conversations that will become increasingly important for our clients and for the future of the firm, especially as artificial intelligence continues to reshape the business landscape.

Looking ahead, what legacy would you like to help build at RSM?

From a business standpoint, I envision a growing Business Applications practice and help position it as one of the leading practices in Puerto Rico and throughout the Caribbean.

I’m also excited about the opportunities we have to expand our presence in markets such as the Dominican Republic and other parts of the region.

But beyond business growth, I’d like to leave a personal legacy as well. I hope that the people who work alongside me feel that I contributed to their development. If, one day, I can look back and see leaders who grew, learned, and advanced with my support and mentorship, I’ll consider that one of my greatest achievements.

As we celebrate RSM Puerto Rico’s first 50 years, what makes you most proud to be part of its history, and what excites you most about its future?

What makes me most proud is having contributed to the firm’s growth over the past 13 years.

When I joined RSM, the firm was much smaller than it is today. I’ve had the opportunity to witness that growth firsthand and contribute to it, particularly within our Business Applications practice. Watching both the firm and our team evolve has been incredibly rewarding.

I’m also proud of having built my career here. Going from Senior Consultant to Partner is something that means a great deal to me because it reflects years of dedication, growth, and a long-term commitment to the firm.

As for the future, I truly believe it’s bright. We have tremendous opportunities to continue growing in Puerto Rico, expand our presence across the Caribbean, and keep evolving alongside the changes shaping our profession.

Technology, artificial intelligence, and new ways of doing business will continue to transform the industry. What excites me most is knowing that RSM is well positioned to embrace those changes while continuing to create value for our clients and opportunities for our people.

“The support is there, but you also have to do your part. Success requires initiative, hard work, continuous learning, and a genuine commitment to your craft.”
– Ricardo Carrillo