Brad DeVries
MSAE role: Industry Partner Representative
1st Year of Involvement in MSAE: 2015
Professional role: Principal
Employer: Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Advisors
Years in Current Position: 20
In-office, hybrid or remote: In-office
BD: I grew up in Davison, graduated from Western Michigan University and now reside in Okemos, with My wife, Angela, son Greyson (5) and our french bulldog, Paris.
BD: I try to make the most of the warmer weather spending time outdoors, which includes tending to our flower gardens, trying to figure out my golf game and spending time in northern Michigan with my family. I'm a big baseball fan and try to fit in a number of Detroit Tigers games each season. I've been passionate about movies since I was a kid, and love going to the theater whenever I can!
BD: My journey with associations began early on in my career in public accounting, where I had the opportunity to work with various organizations. This initial exposure sparked my interest in the industry. Coincidentally, my wife worked at MSAE for a period, which further deepened my involvement with MSAE and attendance at events. As my interest grew, I joined MSAE's golf committee, merging two interests into one! Since 2018, I've been facilitating the finance and budget section for MSAE's Academy of Association Management. This role has enabled me to share my professional expertise while staying connected with the association community.
BD: The resources provided by MSAE have been instrumental in my professional growth, connecting me with a network of dedicated professionals and equipping me with the tools necessary to achieve the CAE designation. Now, at this stage in my career, I am eager to leverage the insights and lessons I've gained to contribute to MSAE's ongoing development and success.
BD: Associations span across all industries, and because of that, I believe that every member has valuable insights and experiences to share. I would encourage anyone with even the slightest bit of interest to contribute and join in to help drive the industry and organization forward!
BD: Time flies! I’ve had the opportunity to work with a variety of associations for 20 years, primarily providing audit and advisory services.
MSAE: Is there anything else we should know about you?BD: Currently, I also serve as treasurer for Michigan Rural Development Council and league secretary for my golf league.
BD: Pursuing the CAE designation was one of the most impactful decisions I’ve made in my career. It broadened my perspective beyond the numbers and gave me a deeper understanding of what truly drives an association and how it engages with its members. I’m especially grateful to MSAE for sparking that interest and providing the resources and support to make that happen!!