Partner Spotlight: Jean McGann

1. What is your name and role at the firm?

I’m Jean McGann, I’m a partner at Abdo and the leader of our government segment.

2. How long have you been with the firm?

12 years

3. What would you be doing if you weren’t an accountant?

If I wasn’t an accountant I would have gone to law school.

4. Tell us about yourself!

I grew up in a small town in southern Minnesota. I went to college in Iowa and spent a few years working in local governments there. I am married to my husband Darren. I have two children, Jake and Amy, who are also both working in accounting.

5. How did you decide to work in Government?

Honestly, I knew I wanted to try auditing and a government auditor position was open. After starting that role, I knew that was were I was meant to be. I started in public accounting as a Government Auditor for Abdo, and then I worked for three different cities, all in Finance. My career took a very different turn, and I went to PWC as an Operations Manager. I even got to travel to India to learn about what their offshore team does. Then I decided I needed to go back to what I was passionate about – working with government agencies. That’s when I came back to Abdo – best decision ever!

6. What do you like to do when you aren’t at work?

I love spending time with my family and traveling. I also enjoy spending time on the lake, bike riding, and hiking. In the winter, I am fortunate to spend most of my time in Arizona.

7. What was your first job?

My dad had a convenience store in Winnebago, so my first job was pumping gas and washing windows.

8. Favorite band?

 Anything 80s! As long as it’s not heavy metal.

9. Who was the biggest influence in your life?

My parents. They taught me about relationships – personal and work. They instilled honesty, integrity, and the value of relationships in me. I really admire them for that.

10. Little known fact about yourself?

After I moved from Iowa to the Twin Cities, I started working in public accounting. My first job happened to be for Abdo.