BENCHMARKS FOR BUILDING BETTER FIRMS
For over 15 years, the Accounting MOVE Project has helped CPA firms turn data into progress. Our proven methodology benchmarks what matters and equips firms with focused strategies to build more inclusive, future-ready leadership.
What Makes MOVE Different?
Most benchmarking stops at data collection. MOVE goes deeper. We don't just ask what programs you have — we investigate whether they're actually working by combining quantitative demographics with qualitative cultural insights gathered through confidential interviews with your firm's leaders, HR directors, and staff at various career stages. This dual approach reveals the gap between what looks good on paper and what drives real advancement. The result? You get honest feedback on what's working, what's holding you back, and exactly where to focus your efforts for maximum impact.
The MOVE Framework
Four proven factors that transform good intentions into measurable progress for women and diverse talent. The MOVE methodology has been used since 1998 when Joanne Cleaver developed it to support Working Woman magazine’s first “Top 25 Companies for Executive Women” list.
Choose Your Participation Level
Whether you're just starting your equity journey or ready for transformative change, MOVE meets you where you are
- Access to aggregate MOVE data
- Eligibility for Best Firms recognition
- National benchmarking insights
- Comparison charts vs. Best Firms
- Firm-specific recommendations
- Comprehensive diversity analysis
- Year-over-year tracking
- Follow-up consultation
- Access to aggregate MOVE data
- Eligibility for Best Firms recognition
- National benchmarking insights
- Comparison charts vs. Best Firms
- Firm-specific recommendations
- Comprehensive diversity analysis
- Year-over-year tracking
- Follow-up consultation
- Access to aggregate MOVE data
- Eligibility for Best Firms recognition
- National benchmarking insights
- Comparison charts vs. Best Firms
- Firm-specific recommendations
- Comprehensive diversity analysis
- Year-over-year tracking
- 30-minute follow-up consultation
Two Ways to Be Recognized
All participating firms are eligible for prestigious recognition through our partnership with the Accounting & Financial Women's Alliance (AFWA).
Best CPA Firms for Women
Best CPA Firms for Equity Leadership
To earn this recognition, your firm must demonstrate BOTH:
- Proportionate representation of women at most or all management levels, AND
- Proven success with the MOVE factors (Money, Opportunity, Vital supports, Entrepreneurship)
A rich array of programs without women in leadership won't make the list. We believe effective MOVE factors produce a healthy, growing proportion of women throughout your leadership pipeline.
Why MOVE?
Because talk is cheap, and progress isn’t optional. Other programs measure outcomes, but MOVE goes further. We highlight what’s working, what you need to improve, and how to get it done. Creating an inclusive culture isn’t just about doing the right thing; it drives your bottom line. Clients notice. Top talent notices. And, trust us, your competition notices.
Some stats you can’t ignore:
- Firms with diverse leadership generate 19% higher revenue.
- Teams that are diverse make better decisions 87% of the time.
- Firms committed to inclusion have 22% lower turnover and 27% higher engagement.
Accounting MOVE Project Supporting Partners
