NJCPA names O’Connell trustees president for 2023-24

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The New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA) announced June 1 that Edward O’Connell will serve as president of the board of trustees for the 2023-24 term.

Currently audit partner in the Technology and Life Sciences practice at WithumSmith+Brown, O’Connell replaces Kathleen Powers, effective immediately.

Since joining NJCPA in 1997, O’Connell has served in a number of roles, including as secretary and trustee. He is currently a trustee of the NJCPA Scholarship Fund and has participated in several committees and interest groups, including: NJCPA Education Foundation board of trustees; New Jersey CPA Political Action Committee (NJ-CPA-PAC); Accounting & Auditing Interest Group, as chair of the SEC and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) subcommittees; and as a board of trustees liaison for the Monmouth/Ocean Chapter.

O’Connell has extensive experience in public accounting, previously working at firms such as EisnerAmper; Wiss & Co. LLP; and Cowan, Gunteski & Co., and at the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB).

He plans to focus his NJCPA presidency on growing the accounting talent pipeline, with efforts centered on informing and engaging younger generations.

Throughout his career, O’Connell has mentored individuals and engaged with local communities and stakeholders to encourage more accounting enrollments and CPAs.

“We are excited to welcome Ed as our next president,” said Ralph Albert Thomas, outgoing CEO and executive director at the NJCPA, who is retiring June 30. “His many years of auditing and financial reporting knowledge will help guide our members and aspiring CPAs in the right direction.”