<p>Our client is growing Private Equity firm continuing to grow their internal team to support the ongoing success and fundraising efforts.</p><p>There are multiple roles here at various levels. If you are looking to gain access into the PE industry by leveraging your accounting background, this is one good way.</p><p><br></p><p>This position is responsible for financial reporting and accounting for investment-related entities. You'll get into preparing and reviewing financial statements, ensuring compliance with accounting standards, and supporting various internal functions.</p><p><br></p><p>Key Responsibilities:</p><ul><li>Prepare periodic financial statements and related reports.</li><li>Review work completed by third-party service providers.</li><li>Oversee accounting, reporting, and compliance for assigned entities.</li><li>Manage administrative tasks such as capital activity and distributions.</li><li>Assist with preparation of materials for stakeholders and respond to information requests.</li><li>Coordinate with external auditors for year-end audits.</li><li>Support tax-related processes and allocations.</li><li>Monitor cash activity and reconcile accounts.</li><li>Maintain and update investment records and related data.</li><li>Record daily transactions in accounting systems.</li></ul><p><br></p>
We are looking for a highly skilled Senior Tax specialist to join a boutique wealth management firm located in Beverly, Massachusetts. This position requires expertise in tax compliance and planning for high-net-worth individuals and trusts, and offers the opportunity to work closely with clients and internal teams to deliver exceptional financial solutions. This is a fully on-site role that demands a strong background in tax preparation and fiduciary returns.<br><br>Responsibilities:<br>• Prepare and review federal and state tax returns for individuals and trusts with precision and efficiency.<br>• Oversee the collection and organization of client data, ensuring the accuracy of workpapers and filings during tax season.<br>• Develop comprehensive tax projections and schedules for estimated payments.<br>• Provide proactive tax planning services, address client tax notices, and handle extended returns.<br>• Collaborate with internal teams and maintain direct communication with clients to ensure seamless service delivery.<br>• Utilize tax software to streamline processes and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.<br>• Stay informed on changes in tax laws to provide clients with the most current advice.<br>• Manage fiduciary income tax returns for trusts and estates with thorough attention to detail.<br>• Conduct reviews of sales and use tax filings to ensure accuracy and compliance.
<p>Senior Tax Analyst</p><p><br></p><p>· <strong>Sr Tax Analyst roles.</strong></p><p>· <strong>Boston Office - 3 days in-office.</strong></p><p>· <strong>$130-160k + bonus.</strong></p><p> </p><p>Our client is an international software developer building out a finance hub here in Boston. Join a super-progressive, high-growth tech org needing a strong Sr Tax Analyst talent that can bring some strong technical tax (indirect tax) expertise.</p><p> </p><p>Duties will include:</p><p>· Oversee all aspects of US federal and multistate income, sales, and use tax compliance, ensuring accurate and timely filings. <strong><u>Indirect Tax skills needed.</u></strong></p><p>· Coordinate with external tax advisors for the preparation and filing of federal, state, and local tax returns.</p><p>· Support international tax reporting, including gathering financial data from global subsidiaries and assisting with transfer pricing and implementation.</p><p>· Monitor evolving tax regulations, maintain sales tax registrations, conduct nexus analysis, and provide audit support.</p><p>· Partner with finance and internal teams on strategic initiatives, offering tax analysis for business expansion, corporate transactions, new products, and special project</p>
We are looking for an experienced Sr. Tax Accountant to join a tax team in Waltham, Massachusetts on a Long-term Contract basis. In this role, you will partner closely with tax leadership to help manage U.S. tax compliance activities and support income tax provision work throughout key reporting cycles. This opportunity is well suited for a detail-oriented candidate who brings strong corporate tax knowledge, works well in a deadline-driven environment, and can contribute value from day one.<br><br>Responsibilities:<br>• Support the preparation and review of federal, state, and local corporate tax filings with an emphasis on accurate and timely domestic compliance.<br>• Assist with quarterly and annual income tax provision activities by gathering data, preparing schedules, and helping analyze tax positions.<br>• Partner with the Director of Tax to organize compliance calendars, monitor deliverables, and maintain supporting documentation for audits and reporting.<br>• Prepare workpapers related to corporate income tax, sales and use tax, and other indirect tax obligations as needed.<br>• Research tax matters and summarize findings to help the team address filing requirements, technical questions, and reporting impacts.<br>• Reconcile tax accounts and investigate variances to improve the accuracy of tax provision and compliance processes.<br>• Contribute to the preparation of tax returns and related schedules by validating source data and ensuring consistency across filings.<br>• Help strengthen tax compliance procedures by identifying process improvements and supporting department initiatives during peak periods.
<p>We are looking for a dedicated Senior Client Service Associate to join a boutique wealth management firm located in Framingham, Massachusetts. </p><p><br></p><p>This role provides an excellent opportunity to gain diverse experience in client service, operational processes, compliance, and financial planning support. </p><p><br></p><p>Ideal for professionals seeking to advance their career in the wealth management sector, this position offers a collaborative environment to grow and thrive.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>
<p>For consideration, please reach out to<strong> Jennifer Lavoie</strong> as soon as possible, ensure to include your most current resume when you apply. <strong><em>Connect with me on LinkedIn </em></strong>at Jennifer Lavoie!</p><p><br></p><p>If you currently work with a recruiter from Robert Half Finance & Accounting recruiter, please contact them directly.</p><p><br></p><p>We are looking for an experienced Sr. Accountant to join our client in the Manchester NH area. This Sr. Accountant position blends payroll ownership with core accounting responsibilities, making it ideal for someone who is highly organized, analytical, and comfortable managing sensitive financial information. The Sr. Staff Accountant role offers the opportunity to support financial reporting, budgeting, and close activities while working closely with cross-functional partners in a dynamic environment.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Sr. Staff Accountant Responsibilities:</strong></p><p>• Manage the full payroll cycle for regular bi-weekly and monthly runs, as well as any special off-cycle payments, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.</p><p>• Oversee paid time off records and maintain balances in alignment with company guidelines and internal policies.</p><p>• Collaborate with Human Resources to address benefit-related payroll items, employee deductions, and required reporting.</p><p>• Safeguard confidential compensation, payroll, and benefits information with a high degree of discretion and professionalism.</p><p>• Prepare retirement contribution files, assist with plan-related testing, and support employer contribution calculations.</p><p>• Participate in budget preparation by analyzing compensation-related costs and selected operating expenses.</p><p>• Support monthly and annual closing activities, including journal entries, reconciliations, and financial reviews.</p><p>• Produce financial reports such as profit and loss statements and help ensure reporting is accurate and delivered on schedule.</p><p>• Complete bank reconciliations and review general ledger activity to identify and resolve discrepancies.</p><p>• Provide financial analysis and assist with special projects and process improvement efforts led by the finance team.</p>
We are looking for an experienced Sr. Accountant to support key accounting operations for a Contract position based in Waltham, Massachusetts. This role will focus on clinical accruals, monthly close activities, reconciliations, and general ledger accuracy within a pharmaceutical environment. The ideal candidate brings strong Excel capabilities, sound accounting judgment, and the flexibility to work with evolving systems and processes.<br><br>Responsibilities:<br>• Manage clinical accrual accounting by reviewing supporting data, preparing entries, and maintaining accurate financial records.<br>• Execute month-end close tasks, including preparing journal entries and ensuring deadlines are met on schedule.<br>• Perform detailed account, bank, and balance sheet reconciliations to identify variances and resolve discrepancies promptly.<br>• Maintain the integrity of the general ledger through accurate posting, analysis, and follow-up on outstanding items.<br>• Partner with internal stakeholders to gather financial information needed for reporting and accrual calculations.<br>• Use advanced Microsoft Excel to analyze large data sets, prepare schedules, and support monthly reporting requirements.<br>• Assist with accounting activities related to system or process changes as needed, ensuring continuity and accuracy in financial reporting.
<p>We are looking for a skilled and proactive Senior Accountant to manage essential financial operations in our client's Boston, MA office. This role will focus on day-to-day accounting, financial reporting, and cross-border coordination with global teams. The ideal candidate is hands-on, organized, and eager to grow within a fast-scaling international environment.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Key Responsibilities:</strong></p><ul><li>Manage daily accounting operations, including journal entries, accruals, and account reconciliations.</li><li>Support month-end and year-end close processes to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting in compliance with US GAAP.</li><li>Maintain general ledger integrity and prepare supporting schedules for balance sheet accounts.</li><li>Assist with financial consolidation processes, including intercompany transactions and foreign currency translation.</li><li>Support accounts payable and accounts receivable processes as needed.</li><li>Assist in preparing financial statements and internal management reports.</li><li>Coordinate with external auditors and tax advisors during annual audits and tax filings.</li><li>Monitor cash flow and assist with treasury-related activities, including payment processing and cash forecasting.</li><li>Help maintain and improve internal controls and accounting processes to support company growth.</li><li>Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate financial data and reporting.</li></ul>
<p>For consideration, please reach out to <strong>Jennifer Lavoie </strong>as soon as possible, ensure to include your most current resume when you apply. <em><u>Connect with me on LinkedIn</u></em> at Jennifer Lavoie.</p><p><br></p><p>If you are currently working with a Robert Half recruiter, please reach out to them.</p><p><br></p><p>Robert Half is seeking an experienced Accountant to support our client in the Concord area and be the sole Accountant for this small company environment. This Accountant role is integral to overseeing the company's financial operations and must be a hands on Accountant. The ideal Accountant will bring hands on Accounting & Finance experience to the table and be comfortable in a small company environment.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Sr. Accountant Responsibilities:</strong></p><p>• Prepare and analyze detailed financial reports to support organizational decision-making.</p><p>• Oversee and maintain general ledger activities, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, month end close, and financial statement preparation.</p><p>• Work with the auditors to ensure compliance and accuracy.</p><p>• Develop, manage, and monitor the organization's budget to align with financial goals.</p><p><br></p><p><strong><em>Company has a very strong benefits package and a good work life balance!!!</em></strong></p>
<p>Connect with Casey Wiggin on LinkedIn if you're interested!!</p><p><br></p><p>We are looking for an experienced Senior Accountant to oversee accounting operations for a specific company within our organization. This role requires someone with strong attention to detail who excels in financial analysis, reconciliations, and ensuring the accuracy of financial statements. If you thrive in a dynamic environment and have excellent problem-solving skills, we encourage you to apply.</p><p><br></p><p>Responsibilities:</p><p>• Manage all aspects of accounts payable and accounts receivable processes to ensure timely and accurate transactions.</p><p>• Prepare and post journal entries to maintain precise financial records.</p><p>• Generate comprehensive financial statements and review balance sheet accounts for discrepancies.</p><p>• Conduct variance analysis to identify trends and investigate results for actionable insights.</p><p>• Perform reconciliations and resolve discrepancies in balance sheet accounts.</p><p>• Take ownership of month-end close processes to ensure compliance and accuracy.</p><p>• Independently review financial statements and provide detailed analysis.</p><p>• Lead special projects related to financial operations and reporting.</p><p>• Utilize multiple financial software systems effectively to support accounting tasks.</p><p>• Collaborate with team members and stakeholders to improve financial processes.</p>
<p>We are looking for an experienced Sr. Accountant to join the finance team for our manufacturing client located in Watertown, MA. This person will support the company's Controller with all general accounting needs and also work alongside accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll.</p><p><br></p><p>Responsibilities:</p><ul><li>Support the Controller with all aspects of general accounting operations</li><li>Prepare and analyze financial statements</li><li>Post journal entries and maintain the general ledger</li><li>Assist with month-end close processes</li><li>Support tax filings and related compliance activities</li><li>Participate in audit preparation and provide necessary documentation</li><li>Collaborate with AP, AR, and payroll functions to ensure accurate financial reporting</li><li>Provide cross-functional accounting support and take on a variety of responsibilities as needed</li></ul>
<p>We are looking for an experienced Sr. Accountant to support accounting operations in Framingham, Massachusetts. This long-term Contract position will play a key role in maintaining accurate financial records, supporting the monthly close cycle, and delivering timely analysis in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate brings strong general ledger expertise, a detail-oriented approach, and the ability to manage accounting activities with accuracy and consistency.</p><p><br></p><p>Responsibilities:</p><p>• Lead core month-end accounting activities, ensuring deadlines are met and financial data is recorded accurately.</p><p>• Prepare and post a high volume of journal entries to support routine and adjusting close transactions.</p><p>• Reconcile general ledger accounts and investigate discrepancies to maintain clean and accurate account balances.</p><p>• Analyze financial activity and supporting documentation to identify variances and resolve issues efficiently.</p><p>• Partner with internal stakeholders to gather required information and support day-to-day retail accounting processes.</p><p>• Assist with accounting-related process updates and operational changes as needed within the department.</p>
<p>For consideration, please reach out to<strong><em> Jennifer Lavoie</em></strong> as soon as possible, ensure to include your most current resume when you apply.<strong><em> Connect with me on LinkedIn </em></strong>at Jennifer Lavoie!</p><p><br></p><p>If you currently work with a recruiter from Robert Half Finance & Accounting recruiter, please contact them directly.</p><p><br></p><p>We are looking for an experienced Senior Financial Analyst to join our client in the Peterborough, New Hampshire area. In this role as a Sr. Financial Analyst, you will play a key part in supporting financial planning, analysis, and reporting processes to ensure organizational efficiency and compliance. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, technical expertise, and the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Sr. Financial Analyst Responsibilities:</strong></p><p>• Provide guidance to budget managers in developing operating and capital budgets, as well as multi-period financial projections.</p><p>• Analyze monthly budget-to-actual variances, prepare detailed explanations, and collaborate with department leaders to implement corrective measures.</p><p>• Create financial reports, dashboards, and analytics to support comparative analysis and organizational decision-making.</p><p>• Prepare and record journal entries with precision and timeliness during monthly closing periods.</p><p>• Facilitate interim and annual audits by preparing schedules, responding to auditor inquiries, and addressing discrepancies.</p>
<p>Our client, a successful full-service law firm, is seeking an experienced Tax and Estate Planning Attorney/Partner to join their firm. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the firm's growth while building your own practice in a collaborative and entrepreneurial setting. Candidates with expertise in tax and estate planning are highly encouraged to apply.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Location: </strong>Wellesley, MA</p><p><strong>Base Salary:</strong> $130,000 - $170,000 (depending on experience) </p><p><strong>Schedule: </strong>Hybrid (3 days in, 2 days remote) with flexibility</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Responsibilities:</strong></p><ul><li>Advise clients on a broad range of tax and estate planning matters</li><li>Handle complex business tax issues, including entity structuring and transactional planning</li><li>Represent clients in tax controversy and litigation matters, as applicable</li><li>Design and implement comprehensive estate plans, including trusts and wealth transfer strategies</li><li>Manage probate and estate administration matters</li><li>Build and maintain strong client relationships</li><li>Contribute to business development efforts and collaborate on firm growth initiatives</li></ul>
<p>We are looking for an experienced Sr. Credit Analyst to join a banking team in the Greater Boston area. This role focuses on evaluating commercial and consumer credit opportunities, assessing financial strength, and supporting sound lending decisions through thorough analysis and clear recommendations. The ideal candidate brings strong experience in underwriting, credit structuring, and portfolio support, along with the ability to partner effectively with lenders and deliver high-quality credit documentation.</p><p><br></p><p>Responsibilities:</p><p>• Evaluate borrower and guarantor financial information, including business and personal financial statements, tax returns, and supporting documents, to determine overall credit quality.</p><p>• Gather required loan data from lenders and clients, then translate findings into clear credit assessments that support new requests and ongoing relationship management.</p><p>• Develop written credit packages, financial models, narrative summaries, and risk commentary to assist lenders with informed credit decisions.</p><p>• Examine loan files for accuracy and completeness, confirming that documentation is in order and collateral records are properly maintained.</p><p>• Assess collateral position and repayment support to confirm alignment with internal lending standards and policy expectations.</p><p>• Partner with commercial lending teams to identify risk factors, recommend appropriate deal structures, and support both new originations and renewals.</p><p>• Prepare and update credit-related reports such as annual reviews, modification requests, loan presentations, and criticized asset commentary as needed.</p><p>• Maintain organized credit files and assist with servicing needs, borrower inquiries, and follow-up items related to existing and prospective loan relationships.</p><p>• Support underwriting and review activities for credit facilities across a range of exposure sizes while ensuring adherence to applicable banking regulations and internal procedures.</p>
<p>We are looking for an experienced Sr. Credit Analyst to support lending decisions for a banking team in the Greater Boston area. This position centers on reviewing commercial and consumer credit requests, assessing financial performance, and delivering well-reasoned recommendations that help guide prudent risk decisions. The role also works closely with lending partners to structure transactions, maintain strong credit documentation, and support the ongoing management of borrower relationships.</p><p><br></p><p><strong><u>Responsibilities:</u></strong></p><p>• Analyze business and personal financial records, tax filings, and related documents to determine borrower and guarantor creditworthiness.</p><p>• Collect and organize loan information from internal lending partners and clients, then convert that data into clear and actionable credit evaluations.</p><p>• Prepare comprehensive credit presentations, written analyses, and financial models that support approval, renewal, and modification decisions.</p><p>• Review loan files to verify accuracy, confirm documentation is complete, and ensure collateral records are properly maintained.</p><p>• Evaluate repayment sources and collateral support to confirm each request aligns with bank policy and risk standards.</p><p>• Collaborate with commercial lenders to identify risk considerations, recommend effective deal structures, and support both new and existing credit relationships.</p><p>• Produce periodic credit reports, annual review materials, loan summaries, and commentary on higher-risk assets as needed.</p><p>• Maintain organized credit records while assisting with servicing follow-up, borrower requests, and ongoing portfolio administration.</p><p>• Support underwriting and credit review activity across a range of lending exposures while adhering to regulatory requirements and internal procedures.</p>
<p>Excellent opportunity to join a Global Medical Device Manufacturer in the Woburn area in need of a Senior Accountant. The Senior Accountant in a newly created position will report into the Director of Accounting and be part of 5-person financial reporting team. Responsibilities include preparing financial reports, performing account reconciliations, maintaining the general ledger, managing fixed assets, assisting in month end close activities and involvement in audit preparations. BS Degree required, CPA or CPA candidate preferred with 2-5+ years of experience in accounting or finance. Knowledge of U.S. GAAP and SOX compliance along with advanced Excel skills required and the ability to work with large volumes of transactional data. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing company with excellent technology that is built out for expansion offering future growth opportunities. Strong leadership team in place, team collaborative friendly environment along with hybrid model (1-2 days from home) but flexibility when needed. Candidates in Public Accounting looking to transition into industry are encouraged to apply. Email dino.valeri@roberthalf;com or message me thru LinkedIn for immediate consideration. </p>
<p>We are looking for an experienced Sr. Internal Auditor to strengthen and oversee the company’s internal control environment in Framingham, Massachusetts. This role partners with teams across the business, internal audit, and external auditors to support compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley 404 and help keep financial reporting controls effective, current, and well documented. The position also plays an important part in identifying control gaps, monitoring remediation progress, and supporting the integration of acquired businesses into the broader control framework.</p><p><br></p><p>For Immediate Interview Please contact Victor Muller at 508 205 2136</p><p><br></p><p>Responsibilities:</p><p>• Partner with global process owners and cross-functional stakeholders to maintain an effective internal control structure that supports Sarbanes-Oxley 404 compliance.</p><p>• Coordinate and support independent testing of key financial reporting controls alongside internal audit and external audit teams.</p><p>• Evaluate changes in business operations and update control documentation, design, and related processes to keep the control environment aligned with current risks.</p><p>• Perform risk assessments and help identify areas where controls may need enhancement to address evolving operational and financial reporting requirements.</p><p>• Track identified control issues through resolution, working with business partners to develop practical corrective actions and meet remediation timelines.</p><p>• Assist with the integration of acquired entities by assessing control gaps, aligning processes to the company’s framework, and monitoring follow-up actions.</p><p>• Administer AuditBoard to support annual control documentation, testing workflows, and reporting activities across the organization.</p><p>• Provide guidance to business and IT teams on control expectations, documentation standards, and compliance-related deliverables.</p>
<p>A leading financial services firm is seeking a <strong>Senior Associate or Vice President of Communications</strong> to join its team in a <strong>full-time, hybrid role (3 days onsite / 2 remote) on the North Shore, Massachusetts</strong>. Title will be based on experience and qualifications.</p><p><br></p><p>This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic communications professional with <strong>5+ years of relevant experience in financial services</strong> to help shape the firm’s voice, strengthen its brand and reputation, and drive high-impact internal and external communications initiatives. Experience in <strong>financial services is required</strong>.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>What You’ll Do</strong></p><ul><li>Help develop and execute the firm’s strategic communications plan to enhance brand visibility, market positioning, and understanding of the firm’s strategic direction.</li><li>Create high-quality communications materials including <strong>briefing documents, talking points, Q&A, presentations, press releases, and other external-facing content</strong>.</li><li>Support and advance the firm’s <strong>media strategy</strong>, including media relations, press engagement, and proactive opportunities to elevate brand reputation.</li><li>Manage and enhance the firm’s <strong>digital presence</strong>, including website content and positioning across online platforms.</li><li>Partner closely with Marketing to ensure <strong>consistent messaging, branding, and thought leadership</strong> across all communications channels.</li><li>Monitor media coverage and industry developments, identifying and escalating timely or high-priority issues.</li></ul>
<p>Our client, a successful family law firm, is seeking a Senior Family Law Attorney to join their team. This role is suited for an experienced attorney who can guide clients through sensitive domestic matters with sound judgment, clear communication, and strong courtroom presence. The attorney will handle a demanding caseload independently while delivering thoughtful strategy and steady advocacy across a range of family law proceedings.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Location:</strong> Boston, MA</p><p><strong>Salary: </strong>$150,000 - $200,000 (depending on experience) + bonuses</p><p><strong>Schedule: </strong>In Office M-F </p><p><br></p><p><strong>Responsibilities:</strong></p><ul><li>Represent clients in a broad range of family law matters from inception through final resolution.</li><li>Handle all aspects of litigation, including case strategy, pleadings, discovery, motions, settlement negotiations, mediations, and trials.</li><li>Advise and represent clients in matters involving divorce and legal separation, paternity actions contempt actions and enforcement proceedings, modification actions involving custody, parenting time, support, and alimony, restraining orders and emergency motions, Department of Children and Families (DCF) matters, including DCF appeals.</li><li>Conduct court appearances, evidentiary hearings, and trials.</li><li>Draft and review legal documents, pleadings, agreements, affidavits, and memoranda.</li><li>Collaborate with clients, opposing counsel, court personnel, guardians ad litem, social workers, and other professionals.</li><li>Maintain accurate case files and comply with all court deadlines and procedural requirements.</li><li>Provide clients with clear legal guidance and maintain consistent communication throughout representation.</li></ul>
We are looking for an Associate General Counsel to support a mission-driven organization in Boston, Massachusetts. This Long-term Contract position is ideal for an attorney with experience advising nonprofit or federally funded organizations on contracts, procurement, and regulatory compliance. The role will partner with leadership and operational teams to provide practical legal guidance across contracting, risk, and compliance matters while supporting training and strategic initiatives.<br><br>Responsibilities:<br>• Advise internal stakeholders on procurement, vendor, and commercial contracting matters with attention to federal regulatory requirements applicable to nonprofit and grant-funded organizations.<br>• Act as legal and compliance counsel on issues involving organizational risk, policy adherence, and enterprise compliance programs for the organization and related entities.<br>• Support senior legal and compliance leadership with investigations, policy interpretation, and day-to-day guidance on compliance and risk management priorities.<br>• Oversee legal operations connected to contract administration and legal request workflows in coordination with technology teams, administrative staff, and external service providers.<br>• Develop and deliver webinars, presentations, and other educational resources on legal and compliance topics for community health center personnel and internal teams.<br>• Provide responsive technical guidance to community health centers and affiliated stakeholders on compliance-related questions and emerging legal concerns.<br>• Lead legal oversight of medical-legal partnership programs, including grant-related activities and supervision of internal or external program contributors, as applicable.<br>• Serve as principal counsel to affiliated business units and subsidiary organizations on governance, contracting, and operational legal matters.<br>• Represent the legal department in committees, cross-functional working groups, and organizational meetings as assigned by leadership.