If spreadsheets had a favorite person, it would be Karen McAuley, our Senior Accountant at Messe Frankfurt Inc. She even submitted her interview answers in a neatly organized Excel sheet — because for Karen, spreadsheets aren’t just a tool, they’re a lifestyle. When she’s not balancing numbers, she’s balancing flavors in the kitchen or managing her newest “team” — a growing flock of chickens.
Q: What first drew you to accounting, and how did your journey lead you to the exhibitions industry?
A: Have you ever heard the expression "If (fill in the blank) was a person…?” That’s me and accounting. Everything about it speaks who I naturally am. I’ve always been technical, analytical, and detail oriented.
Even as a child (much to the dismay of my siblings and classmates), I had a habit of analyzing everything and questioning the smallest details. At the time, it may have earned me a few eye rolls — but as an accountant, those traits have proven to be useful!
I went on to study Finance (accounting’s close cousin), where I also met my husband, who was already enlisted in the military. After graduation, he continued his military career, while I began mine in accounting. Given the nature of his role and frequent relocations, I’ve had the opportunity to apply my skills across multiple industries — now including the exhibitions industry.
One thing I’ve learned along the way is that while industries may change, accounting remains constant — and that consistency has allowed me to grow and adapt, no matter where life has taken us.
Q: Is there a project, process improvement, or milestone during your time at Messe Frankfurt that you’re especially proud of?
A: I’ve been fortunate to bring in learnings from my previous roles and apply them to identify and implement process improvements at Messe Frankfurt. One area I’m particularly proud of is our intercompany processes.
I was able to streamline the internal procedure between Messe Frankfurt Inc. companies (PE Events, Kingpins, and INA PAACE) and standardize the data compilation for quarterly reporting to corporate, improving consistency and efficiency.
Q: What skills or mindset are essential for someone working in accounting within a fast-paced event environment?
A: Success in accounting — especially within a fast-paced event environment — requires a combination of adaptability, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills. Being able to embrace challenges, manage high volumes of data, and stay on top of tight timelines is essential. It’s also important to remain flexible and solution-oriented, as priorities can shift quickly in an event-driven setting.
Q: How do you stay organized and agile with your finance books within a fast-paced event environment?
A: I am a pretty organized person - it’s part of my DNA. The world makes more sense (to me) organized. I'm lucky that it's a characteristic that goes well with my chosen career because I think it is very beneficial in accounting. If I had to name the best tool in my arsenal of staying organized, it would definitely be a "To Do" list! It is quite easy to get distracted with varying tasks, but a "To Do" a list can always redirect you back to the highest priority task at hand.
Q: Show week for you: spreadsheets, checklists, or last-minute calls?
A: Spreadsheets. In accounting, there are always spreadsheets.
Q: What’s one “accounting myth” you’d love to debunk?
A: Accounting is boring. Honestly, if you like mysteries, puzzles, and a bit of intrigue, accounting has all of it.
Q: When you’re not balancing budgets, how do you recharge?
A: Baking - I really enjoy baking. It has been something I've always loved. It is a labor of love, but in the end there's always a treat!! And lately... chickens! We recently moved into a house with a coop, and I’ve convinced my husband they’re a must-have. I’m very excited for this new adventure!
Karen is a great example of how attention to detail is truly a superpower in our industry. A huge thank you to her for giving us a glimpse into her world and for making our financial processes so much easier to navigate.
We’re lucky to have her sharp mind on the team — and we’re all definitely lining up for the amazing baked treats she so often shares with us!