AICPA Appoints New Public Affairs Officer

The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants has appointed James A. O’Malley as senior vice president, public affairs, replacing retiring AICPA Vice President John E. Hunnicut.

Effective Sept. 9, O’Malley will head the Institute’s Washington, D.C., office, reporting directly to AICPA President and CEO Barry C. Melancon, according to an AICPA press announcement. Former CEO of the Australian branch of public relations firm Burson-Marsteller, O’Malley will direct the organization’s activities in the areas of congressional and political affairs, regulatory affairs, public relations and communications, relations with state CPA societies, academic affairs and career development, minority initiatives, and women and family issues.

“Jim brings an extensive background in communications and media relations, public affairs, and national and state government affairs to the accounting profession at a crucial time,” Melancon said of O’Malley’s appointment, according to the announcement. “Obviously, the profession faces significant challenges and we look forward to the breadth of Jim’s experience being a significant contributor to the decisions that will be made related to the CPA profession and the AICPA in the future.”

“Jim’s responsibilities…also include overseeing our very critical activities with state societies. The unique relationship between the AICPA and the state societies has been built over the years in an effort to have effective communications and outreach on the numerous issues affecting the profession,” Melancon added. “Jim’s communications background and relationship building skills will allow us to continue to enhance that relationship.”

O’Malley is a graduate of the University of San Diego, with a bachelor of arts in business administration and a law degree.