Roger Knecht: Transforming Accounting and Coaching into a Legacy of Excellence

Where Strategy Meets Heart

In today’s fast-paced professional world, success is no longer measured merely by financial performance; it is defined by the ability to inspire, mentor, and transform lives. Few leaders embody this philosophy as fully as Roger Knecht, the President of Universal Accounting Center (UAC). With a career that bridges the realms of accounting expertise and transformative coaching, Roger has carved a unique niche: guiding businesses to thrive while empowering professionals to achieve their personal and career aspirations.

Recognized for his visionary leadership, Roger has propelled UAC to national prominence, earning accolades such as Inc. 500 and Utah 100 honors. Yet, his impact extends beyond accolades. Through strategic frameworks, empathetic guidance, and a relentless commitment to growth, Roger is redefining what it means to be a leader in both accounting and coaching.

Coaching as a Catalyst for Transformation

Roger’s coaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that great coaches are catalysts for meaningful change. “A coach is like Cinderella’s carriage,” he explains. “It’s a tool to make the journey smoother and faster. It’s not the only path to your destination, but it certainly enhances the journey.”

At the heart of his approach are two pillars: insightful questioning and accountability. By asking the “right questions,” Roger helps individuals uncover the motivations behind their choices, gaining clarity on their goals and challenges. He pairs this with structured accountability, setting timelines, measurable outcomes, and actionable steps to ensure that ambitions materialize into tangible achievements.

Through this dual approach, Roger has empowered countless professionals, helping them navigate the complexities of business while fostering personal growth. His coaching is not a one-size-fits-all approach; it is tailored, strategic, and deeply human.

Engage & Manifest: A Roadmap for Strategic Growth

Central to Roger’s coaching methodology is his “Engage & Manifest” framework, a structured process that allows clients to reverse-engineer their goals. This framework emphasizes four transformative areas:

1. Understanding Accounting – Equipping professionals with the financial literacy to make informed business decisions.
2. Increasing Revenue – Implementing strategies that drive sustainable sales growth.
3. Improving Profit – Optimizing operations to enhance efficiency and profitability.
4. Building Value – Creating businesses with lasting worth and self-sustaining potential.

By integrating technical expertise with strategic vision, Roger ensures that clients not only survive in competitive markets but thrive. The Engage & Manifest methodology encourages reflection, planning, and action, helping clients translate their aspirations into measurable success.

A Career Forged Through Opportunity

Roger’s journey with UAC began unexpectedly. While working as a recruiter placing accounting professionals, he caught the attention of UAC’s leadership. Recognizing his strategic vision and skillset, they brought him on board, a decision that would shape the trajectory of both his career and the institution.

Over a partnership spanning more than 15 years, Roger has driven significant innovations within UAC. From establishing new departments to modernizing training programs and eventually assuming the role of President, his leadership has consistently pushed boundaries. Under his guidance, UAC has become a premier institution offering comprehensive training, certifications, and coaching programs, equipping accounting professionals with the skills, confidence, and insight needed to excel.

For over four decades, UAC has empowered professionals in bookkeeping, accounting, and tax services. Roger’s leadership has strengthened this mission, ensuring the institution remains relevant, adaptive, and committed to nurturing the next generation of accounting leaders.

MAPPING the Business: A Blueprint for Productivity

As a self-described workaholic, Roger approaches productivity with methodical precision. He relies on a system known as MAPPING the Business, derived from UAC’s Universal Business Model. This framework distills complex responsibilities into three core categories:

• Marketing & Sales (M) – Strategies and actions to grow the business.
• Accounting (A) – Ensuring financial stability and oversight.
• Production (P) – Optimizing operations and delivering exceptional client service.

By documenting, categorizing, and prioritizing tasks, Roger fosters clarity and accountability, enabling professionals to focus on high-impact areas. This disciplined approach allows for effective delegation, ensuring resources and time are utilized efficiently while maintaining operational excellence.

Work-Life Harmony: Redefining Balance

While Roger is deeply committed to professional success, he emphasizes the importance of achieving work-life harmony rather than traditional balance. He likens life to spinning plates, each demanding attention, energy, and focus.

“Success comes partly from sacrifice,” Roger observes. “It’s unrealistic to expect everything to work perfectly at once. Accepting this reality makes life more manageable and less stressful.”

By embracing presence and prioritization, Roger maintains harmony between personal and professional responsibilities. This philosophy not only shapes his own life but also informs his coaching practices, enabling clients to manage competing demands while maintaining well-being and focus.

The Future of Accounting: From Tasks to Advisory Excellence

Roger envisions a transformative shift in the accounting industry. Technological advancements, particularly AI-based tools, are moving accounting from transactional work to advisory functions. He predicts that accountants will increasingly serve as interpreters of data, guiding business owners in strategic decision-making.

“With AI handling repetitive processes, accounting professionals can focus on translating insights into actionable strategies,” Roger explains. “By asking the right questions and providing clarity, accountants become indispensable advisors, not just record-keepers.”

This evolution elevates the profession, positioning accountants as critical drivers of business success and empowering them to deliver strategic value to clients in an increasingly complex market.

GrowCon: Building Community and Connection

Roger’s vision for UAC extends beyond training; it encompasses building a vibrant, collaborative community of accounting firm owners. Through initiatives like GrowCon, UAC hosts annual conferences that bring together professionals in bookkeeping, accounting, and tax services.

“GrowCon is more than a conference,” Roger explains. “It’s a platform for learning, networking, celebrating achievements, and staying ahead of industry trends. Our goal is to foster a thriving community where knowledge, inspiration, and collaboration drive growth.”

Through events like GrowCon, Roger emphasizes connection, shared learning, and mentorship, reinforcing UAC’s commitment to holistic professional development.

Legacy of Empowerment and Innovation

Roger Knecht’s career embodies a rare blend of strategic acumen, empathetic leadership, and transformative coaching. He has redefined what it means to lead in the accounting sector, transforming UAC into a hub of excellence while inspiring countless professionals to achieve their potential.

His coaching philosophy, rooted in accountability, insight, and practical strategy, continues to resonate across industries. By combining technical expertise with human-centered guidance, Roger enables clients to navigate complex challenges and realize sustainable growth.

Looking ahead, Roger remains committed to innovation in the accounting profession. Whether through AI-driven advisory services, advanced training programs, or initiatives like GrowCon, he continues to shape the future of the industry while uplifting professionals worldwide.

Conclusion: Shaping Futures with Strategy and Heart

Through his work at UAC, Roger Knecht exemplifies the power of vision, skill, and heart in leadership. He has not only driven organizational success but also fostered individual empowerment, demonstrating that leadership is about more than metrics; it’s about people.

By merging coaching excellence with strategic insight, Roger has created a legacy that is both transformative and enduring. His journey reminds professionals that success is not merely a destination but a journey, enhanced by guidance, accountability, and a clear vision.

As Roger continues to lead, innovate, and inspire, his impact will be felt not just in the accounting profession but across industries, shaping the futures of businesses and the lives of the individuals who drive them forward.