Chamber Spotlight - Chris Rivard, Chair Elect

Name: Chris Rivard
Company Name: Moss Adams LLP
Title: Partner
Years at Company: 30

What inspired you to pursue a career in this field? 
I was decent at math and had friends going into the accounting program. But really had no idea what I was getting into.

What are three things you use at work every day? 
1) Communication skills would be #1.  All day, every day – with clients, members of my team, peers, prospects, and the general public. And both written and oral skills. These are extremely important. 2) Technology. It’s coming at us more quickly every day and understanding its impact and how to navigate and utilize it to your advantage relative to your business is critical. 3) The ability and patience to see all sides of an issue. Don’t rush to judgment or assume you know all of the relevant facts. Do your homework and keep as broad a perspective as possible.

What was your first job? 
Washing fuel transport trucks for my dad when I was nine.

How do you spend your free time? 
Any physical activity – golf, running, cycling, climbing, kayaking, tennis.

What are three words that best describe you? 
Enjoy the journey.

What did you want to become as kid? 
An artist.

Would you prefer to travel back in time or into the future? 
Into the future. Always forward.

How long have you lived in the Tri-Cities? 
Four years.

Where is your hometown? 
Yakima

Do you have any special talents? 
Purveyor of useless information.

One piece of advice you’d give a young person that wants to get into your field? 
Allow yourself to fail, pick yourself up and try again.

What was the first concert you attended? 
Huey Lewis and the News

What excites you the most about the direction of the Tri-City Regional Chamber? 
Collaboration and unity of vision for the Tri-Cities. So much potential.