Robert Fernandez is a Director with Alvarez & Marsal’s (A&M) Taxand  practice in Miami. He earned bachelor’s degrees in finance and accountancy from Florida International University (FIU). He returned to FIU to earn a master’s degree in accounting in 2013 and a master’s degree in information systems in 2021.

In the Q&A below, Robert talks about how it is never too late to acquire an education, how he enjoys delivering quality and value to clients, and his love of opera and music.

You earned a master’s degree in accounting and a master’s degree of science from Florida International University. What led you to pursue a career in consulting? Were there any notable “ah-ha” moments that led you to that decision?

I had always enjoyed studying accounting and knew I wanted a career helping my clients with their tax matters. During the pandemic, I decided to go back to school and study data analytics to better understand information technology from a business perspective, earning a Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS). I also always had an interest in computers, and while working I came to realize I could gain a foundation in data and technology that could be applied to my ongoing career in tax. It’s never too late to keep expanding your skillset, and today I am better suited to help clients navigate their tax issues using their own data and systems.  

Tell us about your experience in Taxand and the skill sets you strengthened/acquired while at A&M?

While at A&M, I’ve been able to strengthen my role as the go-to tax advisor and problem solver for my clients. No question or issue is too trivial or complex for me or my team. I have been able to develop my expertise in state and local taxes, specifically income/franchise tax, pass-through taxation, and indirect taxes, through various consulting and compliance engagements.

You recently re-joined A&M in March 2021. What were some of your reasons for returning? What would you tell someone who has left and is contemplating coming back?

I am a proud boomerang and always knew I would return to A&M. I left in 2015 to gain some Big 4 experience, but I made sure to stay in touch with my A&M network. During the pandemic, I noticed the industry’s changing environment and missed the culture of A&M, and I knew it was time to at least have the conversation. I would encourage anyone considering a return to do the same, as they may find a new and improved experience the second time around.

What do you enjoy most about working at A&M? Do you feel that our core values – quality, personal reward, objectivity, integrity, inclusive diversity, and fun – stand true? How so?

I enjoy delivering quality and value to our clients, through learning and teamwork, while embodying our core values. Our people reflect these values, from campus recruits to Managing Directors, in everything we do, which makes us fit well together as a culture.

How does A&M differ from other consulting firms?

A&M seems to do a better job of balancing client demands with the wellbeing of its people. From my experience and perspective, the typical burnout culture and “please fix” attitude is not prevalent here, while we are still reporting growth each year and overwhelming client satisfaction.

What are some of your hobbies and passions outside of work?

I enjoy singing opera and learning musical instruments. I have a passion for helping others, and I’m actively involved with my church. I also enjoy grilling, baking and running.

What was your favorite class in the master’s program and why? What was the most helpful/applicable class you took during your master’s studies?

One of my favorite and most helpful classes in the MSIS program was project management because it taught a proven method for successfully completing any project. I have been able to apply the principles of planning, executing and monitoring a project both personally and professionally, and I’ve even considered getting a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. Another class I enjoyed was data visualizations because it taught the foundation and software of data analytics, as well as working with voluminous data for storytelling and decision-making.

What are some random fun facts about you?

I was born and raised in Miami, FL. I sing in a choir every Sunday. I have a Chihuahua named Magnus.