ASA’s Member Spotlight on Business Valuation Appraiser: Joan D’Uva, ASA

Editor’s Note: On Tuesday, June 20th, 2017, the American Society of Appraisers will air its Valuation Report: Preparing a Critique in a Litigation Setting webinar instructed by Joan D’Uva, ASA. Ms. D’Uva is a Partner for EisnerAmper LLP working under the firm’s Forensic Litigation and Valuation Services Group. Holding over 20 years of professional experience, a good portion of her work has been involved in “fair value” measurements for financial reporting purposes, intangible assets in purchase price allocation and impairment testing, warrants and options, as well as valuation review support for EisnerAmper audit teams. As an Accredited Senior Appraiser with the American Society of Appraisers and a Certified Public Accountant and recipient of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Accredited in Business Valuation, Ms. D’Uva combines her use of appraisal and valuation skills and other financial experience to solve complex problems in all types of civil, tort, and criminal litigation. ASA got a chance to chat with this marvelous individual regarding her experiences and viewpoint of the appraisal industry.  

What interested you in becoming a business valuation professional?

Joan D’Uva, ASA

Joan D’Uva, ASA

Originally, I was a Certified Public Accountant working as an auditor but over time I became interested in business valuation. I became interested in valuation because when I visited different businesses, I was fascinated at how they operated and what value they had beyond historical cost. When fair value for financial reporting was introduced, this sparked my interests in this specialty in business valuation because it was a progressive field.

What environmental obstacles did you face in this industry?
I’ve encountered clients that were unaware of this profession and its credentials. Several individuals could not differentiate a business valuation professional who has a designation and a business broker. I believe it is our duty to market and educate the public about this industry.

In your opinion, what do you think the biggest challenge will be for the next generation of inspiring professionals?
The biggest challenge they will face will be remaining cost competitive, due to automation, outsourcing, and simply the growing number of professionals in the field.

Is there any advice you can give to help prepare them?
There are two aspects they must take into consideration when entering this growing field. First they would have to think about efficiency when completing tasks and how they can improve their efficiency for their next assignment. Second, they would have to learn how to distinguish themselves by specializing in a particular area. For example, fair value measurements for financial reporting is a specialty and there is a new designation that they can acquire. It is important to have a specialty and to be able to recognize the technical elements needed to complete the engagements. While it is wonderful to have a general knowledge, I believe to distinguish yourself you must specialize in a particular area.

IMG_4832Last year did you attend ASA’s Woman’s Networking Reception at the International Appraisers Conference in Boca Raton, Florida?
Yes

Do you think it is valuable for professionals to attend networking events like the woman’s reception?
I definitely do. When you read publications, you recognize names of ASA members who have been on committees or recognize their work. Networking events like the woman’s reception gives you a chance to connect with these individuals and grow your professional network. At the woman’s reception, I was given the opportunity to meet with individuals whose names I knew but never met in person before the woman’s reception.

Do you think there is value for professionals to have the ASA designation? 
Absolutely, in my opinion, the ASA designation is the premiere credential.

For more information on upcoming events, visit ASA Online or contact us at (800) 272 -8258.

 

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