Welcome to the July 2025 edition of the DRDA Newsletter, highlighting the latest firm updates, milestones, and innovations as we work to empower businesses and strengthen our communities.
Celebrating Growth and New Services
In his column, Doug Dickey announced the formal launch of Business Advisory Services, designed to help clients achieve sustainable growth through strategic financial guidance and business planning.
Welcoming New Team Members
This month, we welcomed several talented new hires to the DRDA family:
- Rockleigh Dawson, Senior Business Advisor
- Mack Miller, Senior Business Advisor, Strategic Advisory
- Yunyun (Catherine) Zhang, Remote Tax and Accounting Senior
- Melida Ortez, Production Admin Manager
Their diverse backgrounds and expertise will help DRDA continue delivering high-quality, client-focused services.
Department Updates
BORSA Department: Explained how BORSA (also known as ROBS) plans work well for franchise funding, providing flexible financing and ownership without early withdrawal penalties.
Marketing: Rolled out a new outreach initiative to build audit referrals through relationships with bankers, bonding agents, and direct client connections. In addition, the team is implementing HubSpot, an all-in-one CRM and marketing automation platform, to strengthen client communications, improve tracking, and deliver more personalized, timely updates.
Client Accounting Services (CAS): Achieved a 115% increase in production and reduced adjustments by 75% compared to last year, thanks to process improvements, team training, and better onboarding systems.
IT Department: Completed the transition to the Cetrom secure cloud platform, enhancing data security, performance, and remote access for team members and clients.
Finance Department: Reported smoother workflows and faster reporting cycles thanks to Cetrom’s efficiencies.
HR Department: Shared important reminders on submitting PTO, updating calendars, and managing out-of-office communications during the busy summer season.
Firm-Wide News
DRDA Wellness Program is now fully launched, with healthier breakroom options, biometric screenings, virtual healthcare access, and monthly fitness activities to support employee well-being and team connection.
ENGAGE 2025 Conference: In June, DRDA leaders attended AICPA & CIMA’s flagship event in Las Vegas, gaining insights on the role of artificial intelligence as a tool to elevate — not replace — professional expertise. The conference also covered data privacy, strategic risk management, and integrating technology to strengthen client service. These takeaways will help DRDA stay innovative and responsive to clients’ needs.
Employee Shoutouts
Special appreciation went to Mengtong Zhang for her dedication during the Cetrom transition, Patrick Satterfield for his IT assistance, and the CAS and Tax teams for their outstanding teamwork.
Looking Ahead
As the fall deadlines approach, DRDA encourages all team members to balance summer recovery with proactive preparation to ensure clients continue receiving high-quality, timely service. Together, through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, DRDA is poised for continued growth and success in the second half of 2025.