2024 Most Influential Women: Krystal Creach

Last year, Krystal Creach achieved an objective 20 years in the making when she was named partner at Forvis Mazars LLP.

“It has been a goal of mine since college when I knew that I wanted to get my CPA license and go into public accounting,” says Creach, who provides tax and advisory services and leads the Forvis Mazars Private Client team for high-net-worth individuals.

“Krystal’s leadership has contributed to significant growth on the Forvis Mazars team, which is a testament to her passion, dedication and ability to lead,” says Gary Schafer, local managing partner for Forvis Mazars. “Krystal’s deep technical expertise is valued by clients and colleagues alike, and her practical, innovative approach and genuine interest in helping others shines through in all her interactions.”

Creach joined Forvis Mazars in 2007. In addition to serving private clients with an emphasis on physicians, Creach has extensive experience in health care, education and non-for-profit organizations.

Her path has provided challenges as Creach navigated work and family responsibilities.

“There have been many times throughout my career that have made me question the amount of work and commitment it takes to make it to this level, but I can absolutely say that I am proud of myself for staying dedicated to that goal,” she says. “I am most excited about this achievement allowing me the opportunity to have a voice in bringing up others and providing them with a path to reach their goals. I want to have an impact on their lives the way that my mentors have had an impact on me.”

As a partner, Creach is responsible for coaching fellow employees and helping them achieve in their careers, something she’s done for seven people so far.

“At Forvis Mazars, our DNA is to be builders,” she says. “Some of my best moments have been helping these individuals to work through strengths and weaknesses and find their true passion.”

Creach has lent her time to numerous community organizations, including Junior League of Springfield, Ozarks Counseling Center and the Accounting and Financial Women’s Alliance. She sits on the board for the Greene County Estate Planning Council and is the finance committee chair for Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland.

“Not only is Krystal influential within Forvis Mazars, where she is seen as a dynamic leader, she is respected in the accounting industry for her deep technical expertise,” Schafer says. “Her passion for serving her clients, family, colleagues and community is truly inspiring to see. … We are truly fortunate to have Krystal in our community and as a key leader on the Forvis Mazars team, and I am excited to see the amazing things she will accomplish in the years ahead.”