Meet Willie Sublet III | President, Dallas/Fort Worth Alliance of Black Accountants

We had the good fortune of connecting with Willie Sublet III and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Willie, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
When I first assumed the role of President for the Dallas/Fort Worth Alliance of Black Accountants, my perspective on work-life balance was somewhat different than it is today. Like many passionate leaders, I was determined to take on every challenge head-on and immerse myself in the myriad of tasks and projects. A significant part of that approach stemmed from wanting to set a strong foundation and example.

Yet, with the passage of time and the accumulation of experiences, my perspective evolved. I’ve come to a profound realization about the value of the incredible time, talent, and treasures offered by my board. It’s not just about delegation in the practical sense, but also about fostering a culture of trust. Entrusting tasks to capable hands not only lightens the workload but also brings fresh and diverse perspectives to the fore. And this delegation and trust are not just managerial tools; they are essential safeguards against leadership burnout.

Balancing the demands of leadership with my personal life has always been crucial, especially given my role as an involved parent, brother, and son. These familial roles aren’t just responsibilities to me; they are the source of my energy, my grounding, and my sanctuary. Spending quality time with my family, engaging in the simple joys, and being there for the milestones – these are what recharge my batteries and provide me with the emotional and mental strength to lead with vigor.

In essence, my work-life balance is no longer about segregating work from personal life but finding ways they can harmoniously coexist. DFW-ABA remains a significant part of my life, but it operates alongside and in harmony with my cherished roles in my family. Embracing this integrated approach ensures that I remain present, both as a leader and as a family member, bringing the best of myself to every role I undertake.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
In sharing our story with the world, I want to highlight that the Dallas/Fort Worth Alliance of Black Accountants is more than a group of skilled professionals. We are a living testament to the brilliance, tenacity, and dynamism of the black community within the accounting, business, and finance sector. Our narrative is one of collective growth, of surmounting challenges, and of the unwavering belief that with the right support and resources, there’s no ceiling to our potential.

The Dallas/Fort Worth Alliance of Black Accountants has always been about more than just numbers or professional connections. What sets us apart is our commitment to purposeful action. We’ve adopted the term “intentional” as our guiding principle, ensuring every endeavor, program, and outreach is deeply rooted in this ethos. Our drive to make a meaningful impact is evident in the meticulous planning and dedication we invest in our projects. Every year, without fail, we spend the last two months reflecting on the current year’s achievements, challenges, and opportunities, while concurrently laying down a detailed roadmap for the year ahead. This isn’t just about ticking boxes but about deep introspection and foresight.

Navigating my way to the presidency of this esteemed organization was by no means a straightforward journey. Like any professional path, it was punctuated with challenges—times of doubt, stretches of overwhelming work, and moments where the roadmap seemed uncertain. But, grounded in our collective ethos of intentionality, I learned the importance of clarity of purpose. By being intentional, we’ve always managed to steer through challenges, turning them into opportunities for growth and learning.

Among the myriad lessons learned along the way, one stands out: the undeniable power of planning and creating a space for success. Success, we’ve realized, isn’t merely a product of chance or goodwill. It’s a result of meticulous planning, unwavering dedication, and creating the right environment for it to flourish. When you’re intentional about your goals and create the right ecosystem for them, success doesn’t just knock; it walks in and stays.

To the world, I’d like to say this about our brand and story: The Dallas/Fort Worth Alliance of Black Accountants isn’t just about accounting; it’s about intentionally crafting a legacy of excellence, mentorship, and empowerment. We don’t leave things to chance; we plan for them. And in this planning, we’re not just shaping an organization, but futures, careers, and a more inclusive professional landscape.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My best friends would tell you that I am not the one you call for a “We had a time last night” experience. I am a huge fan of visiting local eateries, lounges and mostly being at my house with my 75 gallon fish tank. I am the friend you all when you want to relax, talk and support local businesses.

If I had to plan a day it would start with my favorite drink at Black Coffee followed up with breakfast at Carpenter’s Cafe. I would most likely treat them to a full day at either Woodhouse or Boddy Scrubbery. Lunch would be at Doc B’s in Clearfork with a quick wine stop at Cru to see my girl Judy. The night would end with a quick trip to the Tiki lounge followed by drinks and food at my home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I would be remiss if I didn’t dedicate my shoutout to the heart and soul of the Dallas/Fort Worth Alliance of Black Accountants – our members. These individuals, from diverse backgrounds and experiences, come together with a shared purpose: to uplift, educate, and support one another in the accounting profession. Each member brings unique skills, perspectives, and passion to our collective table, making our alliance much more than just a group – it’s a family. Their unwavering commitment, enthusiasm, and dedication not only drive our initiatives forward but also create an environment that fosters growth, mentorship, and camaraderie. It’s through their collective efforts that we continue to make a mark in our community and industry.

As President, I’ve had the distinct honor of leading this organization, but it is the collective strength, wisdom, and drive of our members that have truly propelled us to greater heights. Every success story, every breakthrough, and even every challenge we’ve overcome, has been through the combined efforts of these outstanding individuals. They’ve not only given me an avenue to grow as a leader but have also shown me the true meaning of community, resilience, and unity.

So, to every member of the Dallas/Fort Worth Alliance of Black Accountants – this shoutout is for you. Your tireless efforts, dedication, and commitment to our shared mission don’t go unnoticed. You are the pillars of our success, and I am eternally grateful for the privilege of serving and growing alongside each one of you.

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