Hood & Strong’s H&S Voices series highlights the people who power our work — professionals who bring expertise, empathy, and integrity to every engagement. In this installment, meet Erin Zhang, a Senior Tax Manager who specializes in real estate and multi-state filings.
Q: What motivated you to join the accounting industry?
When I decided to go back to school, the economy was at a real low point. A friend told me that even when a business goes bankrupt, there’s still a need for an accountant to wrap things up. That really stuck with me. I was looking for stability and job security, so I decided to start a new path in accounting.
Before that, I worked in corporate banking — so I came into accounting with a different perspective. I had seen things from the bank’s point of view, and I was ready to get closer to the planning side of the business.
Q: What’s your current role and primary focus at Hood & Strong?
I’m a Senior Tax Manager and have been with the firm for more than six years. I work mostly on partnership and LLC tax returns, with a focus on multi-state filings and real estate. My role is to be a resource — both to our clients and to my colleagues on the tax team.
Q: What do you think differentiates Hood & Strong from other public accounting firms?
The people here are really different. It’s not just a friendly environment, it feels like a team, a family. We work together to deliver the best service to our clients and support each other along the way.
The culture is flexible, supportive, and trusting. I don’t feel like I have to choose between work and family. Also, Hood & Strong is one of the few firms that still supports 100% remote work, which makes a big difference in my day-to-day life.
Q: What does collaboration look like on the tax team?
It really is a team effort. If a client reaches out with a question I can answer, I’ll get back to them within 24 hours. If it’s something I need help with, I’ll ask someone on my team — and they always respond with great information, direction, or materials. We rely on and support each other to serve our clients.
Q: Do you have a favorite memory from your time at the firm?
A couple of years ago, I told a story at a tax department meeting that ended up becoming a tradition. It was about a real case in China, where Deloitte was auditing a farm and had to decide whether pigs should be classified as fixed assets or inventory. It sounds silly, but it sparked a great conversation.
Now we all share a tax or accounting joke each week. It helps us stay connected and adds some humor during busy times.
Q: What keeps you motivated day-to-day?
Honestly, I enjoy logging in each morning. I like seeing my team, and even though we’re remote and spread across the country, we’re really close. We share food recommendations, movie ideas, and funny stories. I look forward to coming to work every day.
