Roanna Breen’s career path hasn’t followed a straight line; it’s been shaped by a desire to find purpose in her work. After starting in investment banking and transitioning into public accounting, she ultimately found her place in the nonprofit sector with YPTC. In this Q&A, Roanna shares how her journey led her here, what she finds most rewarding about supporting nonprofit organizations, and why meaningful impact and balance keep her motived.

Q: What were your earliest aspirations, and how did they influence your career path?

I’ve always been good with numbers, so early on I knew I wanted to go to business school. I started my career in mutual funds and investment banking, then transitioned into accounting later on, eventually joining a public accounting firm.

While I always enjoyed accounting, public accounting wasn’t fully fulfilling for me. That’s when I started thinking more about purpose. I wanted to give back, align my work with something meaningful, and use my skills in a nonprofit setting where I could truly make a difference.

Q: How did your journey lead you to Your Part-Time Controller, LLC (YPTC)?

After another long tax season, I was out hiking—one of my biggest passions—and I was talking about how draining tax season can be and how it takes over my life for five months every year. Someone asked me a simple question: What would your ideal job look like?

As I started describing it out loud, it really clicked. I wanted to give back, do something meaningful, and be part of a bigger cause. I also wanted a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

That conversation made me realize it was time for a change. I started researching companies and came across YPTC. Honestly, it checked every box—working remotely, being in a nonprofit setting, competitive pay and benefits, a real commitment to work-life balance, and a great team of people. I felt like I hit the jackpot.

Q: What is your current role at YPTC?

I joined YPTC in December 2021 as a Staff Accountant and was promoted to Associate about a year and a half later. I’m currently based in Connecticut and affiliated with the Boston office.

Q: What are the most rewarding aspects of your role?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is working with clients who are coming to us during really difficult times. Often, they’ve been through challenges like financial disorganization, staffing transitions, or a lack of clear systems, and they feel overwhelmed and unsure how to move forward.

Being able to step in, assess the situation, and bring structure, clarity, and stability back to the organization is very fulfilling.

What makes the work even more meaningful is seeing the transformation over time—watching a nonprofit move from stressed and reactive to confident, organized, and financially healthy. Knowing that stability allows them to better serve their mission is incredibly rewarding.

Q: What aspects of YPTC’s culture positively impact your day-to-day work?

The parts of YPTC that impact my day-to-day the most are the people, the support, and the flexibility.

I work alongside colleagues who are not only knowledgeable, but also generous with their time and genuinely supportive. It creates a collaborative, positive environment.

I’m trusted to take ownership of my work and approach challenges in a way that makes sense to me, while still having access to the resources, guidance, and encouragement I need. That balance of autonomy and support allows me to do my best work and makes each day both productive and enjoyable.

Q: What motivates you to continue your career at YPTC?

I would say the work itself. Many of the nonprofits we partner with come to us during challenging moments when there are real issues to resolve and systems to strengthen.

I find it very rewarding to be part of that larger picture—helping an organization get back on solid footing, move forward with confidence, and ultimately further its mission.

What makes that work possible is the level of support at YPTC. I always feel backed by my colleagues and leadership, and I have access to the resources, knowledge, and collaboration I need. That combination of meaningful impact and strong support keeps me motivated and excited to keep growing.

Q: What excites you most about your future at YPTC?

I truly feel fulfilled by my work and confident about where I’m heading. I love the work itself, but just as importantly, I love the people I work with. The team at YPTC is smart, supportive, kind, and genuinely enjoyable to collaborate with.

I also see a lot of room for growth in multiple directions. My managers and directors always have my back—they’re invested in my development and actively help me work toward my personal and professional goals.

What excites me most is knowing that whatever my next step looks like, YPTC will be there to support me and help me get there. I feel very lucky to be part of an organization that values both growth and people.

YPTC is hiring. If you’re an accounting professional looking to use your skills for good, visit yptc.com/work-for-us and check out available opportunities. We can’t wait to meet you!