From In-Charge Auditor to Audit Manager
Growing up in Sharpsburg, MD, and now living in Hagerstown, MD, Addie Blickenstaff has always called Washington County home. In June 2017, she joined DeLeon & Stang as an In-Charge Auditor, bringing her expertise and passion for accounting to the firm’s Frederick office. Eight years later, she’s an Audit Manager and an integral leader in shaping the firm’s audit services.
Growing Into an Audit Manager Role
As an Audit Manager, Addie leads attest engagements for a variety of nonprofit organizations and local governments. She oversees planning and execution, manages client relationships, and ensures her team’s work is accurate and compliant.
Beyond client work, she's also helping shape the audit department itself—spearheading technology and process initiatives and guiding interns and new hires as they integrate into the firm's culture.
CPA Support and Professional Development
“DeLeon & Stang has been incredibly supportive of my professional and personal growth,” Addie reflects. “The firm’s mentorship and open-door leadership have helped me gain confidence in managing teams, communicating with clients, and thinking strategically about how we serve our communities. They encouraged me to continue my education, supported me in earning my CPA certification—covering exam fees and study materials—and gave me many opportunities to lead engagements early in my career.”
That support has continued throughout her time at D&S, opening doors to meaningful professional development. A highlight was attending the ASAE Conference last year, which Addie calls “a huge stepping stone for both me and D&S in networking and learning best practices for growth and development.”
Strengthening the Audit Department
"Honestly, I think my biggest achievement has been participating in the growth and leverage of our department," Addie reflects. "We’re in a much different place than we were structurally eight years ago, and I am proud to be part of that progress."
Her contributions haven't gone unnoticed—she was nominated for the MACPA Women to Watch award and has received internal recognition for her leadership, mentoring, and process improvements.
Mentoring Auditors and Supporting Team Growth
Balancing professional growth with personal milestones, Addie has welcomed two daughters during her time at D&S, with the firm supporting her every step of the way. Looking ahead, she is focused on continuing to grow as a leader—nurturing the next generation of auditors, strengthening client services, and helping shape the firm’s future.
"D&S supports my dreams and wants to see me achieve," Addie says.
FAQS
What does an Audit Manager do?
An Audit Manager oversees the audit process and leads the audit team. Audit Managers are responsible for planning engagements, managing client relationships, reviewing their team members’ work, and ensuring audits are accurate and compliant.
How long does it take to become an Audit Manager?
Most professionals become Audit Managers after about 5–8 years of audit experience, depending on performance, certifications, and firm structure.
Do you need a CPA to become an Audit Manager?
In most cases, yes. A CPA license is typically required or strongly preferred for promotion into Audit Manager roles, especially in public accounting firms.
Does DeLeon & Stang support CPA exam preparation?
Yes. DeLeon & Stang supports team members pursuing their CPA with study resources, flexibility, encouragement, and a CPA bonus program for those who earn their license while at the firm.
What does MACPA stand for?
MACPA stands for the Maryland Association of Certified Public Accountants. It provides networking opportunities, education and resources for accounting and finance professionals in the Maryland area.