A Visionary Leader Transforming Businesses and Lives with Strategy, Skill, and Heart
Great coaches are more than just mentors; they are catalysts for transformation. They ask insightful questions, uncover hidden motivations, and hold people accountable for their goals. Roger Knecht exemplifies these qualities, merging his deep expertise in accounting with a passion for coaching to empower professionals across industries.
As the President of Universal Accounting Center (UAC), Roger has not only guided the institution to remarkable success, earning accolades such as Inc. 500 and Utah 100 honors but has also redefined coaching by blending strategic frameworks with empathetic leadership. His philosophy, practices, and accomplishments make him a beacon of inspiration in the accounting and coaching sectors.
Coaching Philosophy: A Journey of Discovery and Accountability
Roger’s approach to coaching stems from a simple yet profound metaphor: a coach is like Cinderella’s carriage, a vehicle designed to make the journey toward success smoother and faster. “It’s not the only way to reach your destination,” Roger explains, “but it sure can make the journey a lot better.”
His coaching philosophy emphasizes the dual pillars of insightful questioning and accountability. The “right questions” delve into the underlying motivations behind actions and decisions, uncovering clarity in the process. By holding individuals accountable with structured timelines and measurable outcomes, Roger ensures that ambitions turn into achievements.
Engage & Manifest: The Path to Strategic Growth
Roger has encapsulated his coaching approach in a structured framework called “Engage & Manifest.” This methodology enables clients to reverse-engineer their goals, verbalizing their aspirations and mapping the steps to achieve them.
The process focuses on four transformative areas:
- Understanding Accounting – Building financial acumen to manage businesses effectively.
- Increasing Revenue – Implementing strategies for sustainable sales growth.
- Improving Profit – Optimizing operations for enhanced profitability.
- Building Value – Creating a self-sustaining business with intrinsic worth.
This holistic approach combines technical proficiency with strategic insight, empowering clients to navigate challenges and achieve lasting success.
A Transformative Journey with Universal Accounting Center (UAC)
Roger’s journey with UAC began serendipitously while he worked as a recruiter, placing accounting professionals in various roles. Impressed by his skills and vision, UAC’s leadership brought him on board, leading to a dynamic partnership that has lasted over 15 years.
During his tenure, Roger has spearheaded numerous innovations, established new departments, and eventually assumed the presidency of UAC. Under his leadership, UAC has grown into a premier institution offering training, certifications, and coaching to help accounting professionals thrive.
For over 40 years, UAC has empowered professionals to excel in bookkeeping, accounting, and tax businesses, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and confidence to succeed. Roger’s leadership continues to uphold this mission, driving growth while staying true to the institution’s core values.
MAPPING the Business: Roger’s Productivity Blueprint
As a self-proclaimed workaholic, Roger relies on a methodical approach called MAPPING the Business, derived from UAC’s Universal Business Model.
This system simplifies complex responsibilities into three core categories:
- Marketing & Sales (M): Activities to drive business growth.
- Accounting (A): Financial management to ensure stability.
- Production (P): Operational efficiency and superior customer service.
By documenting, categorizing, and prioritizing tasks, Roger’s approach fosters clarity and effective delegation, allowing professionals to focus on high-impact areas while managing time and resources efficiently.
Balancing Success with Harmony
When it comes to balancing work and life, Roger embraces the concept of work-life harmony over traditional balance. He compares life’s demands to spinning plates, each requiring focused energy to maintain.
“Success comes partly from sacrifice,” he observes. “It’s unrealistic to expect everything to work perfectly at once. Accepting this reality makes life more manageable and less stressful.”
By being fully present in each moment and maintaining a realistic perspective, Roger achieves harmony between his professional responsibilities and personal well-being. This mindset not only shapes his life but also inspires his coaching practices, helping others navigate the complexities of modern work and life.
The Future of Accounting: A Shift Toward Advisory Excellence
Roger envisions a transformative future for the accounting industry, driven by technological advancements like AI. He predicts a shift from task-oriented roles to advisory functions, where accountants act as interpreters of business data.
“With AI-based tools, accounting professionals will take on the role of translators, helping business owners understand and act on the insights their data provides,” he explains. By asking the right questions, accountants will guide decision-making processes, delivering strategic value to businesses.
This evolution will position accountants as indispensable advisors, driving business success with clarity and insight.
GrowCon and the Vision for UAC’s Future
Roger’s vision for UAC extends beyond training and coaching. Under his leadership, the institution is building a vibrant community of accounting firm owners, fostering collaboration and celebrating achievements through initiatives like GrowCon.
An annual conference designed for bookkeeping, accounting, and tax business owners, GrowCon provides a platform for learning, networking, and inspiration. “Our goal is to build a thriving community where professionals can share ideas, celebrate success, and stay ahead in an evolving industry,” Roger shares.
Through continuous innovation and a commitment to excellence, UAC is poised to remain a leader in the accounting profession, helping individuals and businesses achieve unparalleled success.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Empowerment and Excellence
Roger Knecht’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, strategy, and dedication. As a leader, coach, and innovator, he has transformed Universal Accounting Center into a hub of excellence while empowering countless professionals to achieve their dreams.
His coaching philosophy, rooted in accountability and insight, continues to inspire individuals and businesses alike. With a keen eye on the future, Roger remains committed to fostering growth and innovation in the accounting industry, ensuring that professionals are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of tomorrow.
Through his work at UAC, his visionary leadership, and his dedication to empowering others, Roger Knecht is not just shaping careers—he’s shaping futures.
