We talk a lot about the future of work in accounting. About AI, automation, and yes, the growing role of global talent. But rarely do we hear from the people living it. Those who are embedded, trusted and actively helping U.S. firms thrive from halfway around the world.
That’s why I was so excited to sit down with Michelle Fernandes, a Mumbai-based team member at Staffing Global who works virtually for the RKL Virtual Management Solutions team. Michelle is not just “outsourced help.” She’s a vital member of the firm’s accounting team.
A New Kind of Team
Michelle didn’t just find a job. She found a team that sees her. A CPA firm that trusted her enough to let her grow from processing payables to supporting financial reviews. A remote role that doesn’t feel remote at all.
“I never felt like I was 10,000 miles away,” Michelle told me. “If I ever get stuck, I know someone on the team will answer right away.”
That kind of collaboration and trust doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the product of good tech, great communication and a mindset shift inside the firm.
The Flattening of Firm Culture
One of the most powerful things Michelle shared was the cultural difference between Indian and U.S. work environments. In India, workplaces often follow traditional hierarchies. In contrast, she found that RKL’s structure is much flatter. It was open, empowering and collaborative.
“At RKL, everyone contributes. You’re encouraged to speak up, ask questions and even challenge something if it doesn’t look right,” she said.
That kind of environment accelerates professional growth. Michelle has taken on more responsibility over time because she asked, but also because the firm said yes.
Not Just a Good Fit. A Better Way.
When firms consider global talent, they often focus on cost. But Michelle’s story reminds us of something bigger. INsourcing is about unlocking capacity, empowering your existing team and creating space for higher-value work.
Her job? Handle the recurring, time-consuming tasks so her U.S.-based managers and controllers can focus on delivering insights and strategy to clients. The result? Better financials. Better decisions. And a better experience for everyone.
The Radical Takeaway
The future of accounting isn’t just bots and automation — it’s blended teams. It’s thinking differently about who does the work, where they’re located and how we show up for our clients. Firms like RKL are leading the way. And professionals like Michelle are proving that distance is no barrier when culture, communication and care are in place.
If you’re still hesitant about working with global talent, Michelle’s story should be your green light. When it’s done right, it doesn’t feel like outsourcing…it feels like team building.
Want to learn more about how Staffing Global can help your firm?
Be sure to check out my earlier interview with Ryan Moore, a partner at RKL Virtual Management Solutions, about how INsourcing solves staffing challenges.
You can also visit StaffDifferent.com or reach out to me directly.
Let’s rethink what your team could look like!
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