Jamie Arenz, Business Development Director at Scouts Talent
Jamie has 20 years in public accounting, focused primarily on audit and assurance. He spent time in both Big Four public accounting as well as a national audit firm settings. Most recently Jamie was a consultant for an accounting and finance services firm where he specialized in supporting life science companies in all aspects of accounting and finance (i.e. day-to-day record keeping, closes [MEC, QEC, YEC], FP&A, contract management, financial reporting, transactions, etc.) as a company’s “internal” team, as well as SOX implementations and compliance.
Jamie is experienced in building strong, lasting client relationships. He prides himself on understanding an organization’s industry and its unique aspects. Known for proactively understanding client needs and providing personalized solutions, Jamie has a proven ability to resolve complex issues and exceed client expectations. He is passionate about delivering exceptional service and fostering client loyalty.
Jamie lives in Edina with his wife and daughter. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, being outdoors (hunting, fishing, hiking, or being on a lake), skiing with his family, visiting his family’s farm in rural Iowa, and letting the Iowa Hawkeyes get his hopes up.
Jamie graduated from the University of St. Thomas (B.A. degrees in Accounting and Finance) and is a Certified Public Accountant.
If you could try a different job for a day, what would you choose?
I’d love to be a chef. It would be exciting to have the opportunity to create new dishes, experiment with unique ingredients, and maybe even come up with my own restaurant concept.
What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry?
Be honest, reliable, and empathetic, and always follow through. I try to be an active listener, understanding that each company and person has unique concerns and questions.
What is your mantra?
While it may sound cliché, I always come back to The Golden Rule: Treat others as you want others to treat you. Living a kind and compassionate life. It emphasizes treating others with the same respect, kindness, and consideration you would desire for yourself.
How do you get yourself out of a slump?
I find connecting with friends and family and spending time outside to be a great source of recharging.
What companies or leaders do you admire?
I’ve had the opportunity to work with some exceptional leadership at each of my career stops. Leaders who played a significant role in my growth, guiding me on strategic thinking, leadership, and navigating corporate dynamics. Their support and advice helped me build confidence, develop key skills, and advance professionally.
What has been the biggest shift you’ve noticed in your industry in the last decade?
I would have to say the most significant shift in the workplace over the past decade has been the increased emphasis on flexible and remote work options. This trend, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to a decline in traditional office models and a greater emphasis on work-life balance, as employees are now able to work from anywhere.
Who has been most instrumental in your career?
For me, if I had to think of someone who’s been “instrumental” in shaping what I am, it’d be a blend of all the people who’ve trained me—parents, teachers, colleagues. My parents have been incredible role models. My mom’s dedication to going back to school while raising three kids speaks volumes about her determination and passion, and my dad’s ability to balance a demanding career in law with his love for the land showed me how to be grounded and committed. They instilled in me a deep appreciation for hard work and the natural world. The balance has shaped me to approach life, being driven, thoughtful, and hands-on.
Additionally, the relationships I’ve built with peers and colleagues have helped to refine my ideas and approaches. The accounting profession has a collaborative spirit that has allowed me to flourish—learning from others, sharing ideas, and pushing each other to be better versions of ourselves. Working alongside others who have a shared passion for growth, development, and impact has been a constant source of inspiration.
What is your go-to celebration meal, drink, or tradition?
When it’s time to celebrate, I don’t pop champagne – I pop Scotcheroos like a Midwestern grandma at a bake sale showdown. So naturally, for my 40th, I skipped the caterers and hit peak luxury with a tray of Scotcheroos made by my mom. Because nothing says ‘I’ve made it’ like turning 40 with peanut butter in my teeth and maternal love in every bite.
