July 12, 2023

This paid piece is sponsored by Eide Bailly LLP.

One of Eide Bailly LLP’s newest partners in the Sioux Falls office is a woman who specializes in helping businesses plan for their future.

A Mitchell native and USD graduate, Erica Bjerrum also is a mother of three who is continuing her own family legacy in her profession.

“Erica brings strong advisory skills and technical knowledge to her leadership in the business valuation and transaction advisory department,” Eide Bailly partner Chad Flanagan said.

“She has helped build out a strong team with her caring mentorship and people skills. Connecting with clients, referral sources and our team has always been one of Erica’s greatest strengths, and we are excited to have her serve in a partner role on our team.”

We caught up with Bjerrum to learn more about her career path and passion for her field.

 What drew you to the field of accounting?

 I actually fought getting my accounting degree because my mom and my grandpa were both CPAs. However, my junior year I finally gave in and moved to the accounting side instead of finance since it was just a natural fit for me.

What connected you with Eide Bailly, and what do you like about the firm?

The people. I work with an amazing group of individuals and professionals. I learn something new from someone almost every day. The firm is great about flexibility and promoting as much work-life balance as we can fit in.

What’s the best part about your job?

Helping families continue their legacy and transition their business to the next generation or a third-party buyer. I love finding out what is most important to each business owner as we work through their transition.

Is there any area of accounting you consider your specialty?

I specialize in business valuation and transaction consulting. I started out in taxes and have been doing valuation work full time since 2012.

How do you connect to the Sioux Falls community? Are there organizations or causes you’re drawn to support?

I love Sioux Falls and think it’s a great place to live and raise a family. We are involved in many different sports leagues and local charities. I enjoy supporting local charities through my work and charity golf outings.

What can we find you doing for fun when you’re not working?

Likely watching some sporting event my children are attending. I’m a pretty good cheerleader and want them to know I am there watching! Other than that, I love to get out on the golf course when I can and travel to as many new places as possible.

What advice would you give to a young person pursuing a career in accounting?

Accounting is more of a people business than anything else. You have to be a good at the numbers but even better at customer service and nurturing relationships. There are so many different options and avenues an accounting degree can take you. Also, job security is great; according to most, there will always be death and taxes.

To learn more about building your accounting career with Eide Bailly, click here.