What does it take to build a global career in accounting? For SMU Accountancy alumnus Kenneth Murwanto, it began with a bold move. 

In 2013, Kenneth took a leap of faith by moving from Singapore to the US, restarting his international tax career by taking an entry-level Associate position in a Big Four firm. Twelve years on, he’s specialised in the field, and was recently appointed Partner, International Tax at Grant Thornton US.

Congratulations on your recent appointment to Partner, International Tax, at Grant Thornton US. Can you share more about your role? 

Kenneth: I lead our firm’s international tax practice in the West region of the US, helping multinational clients navigate complex business challenges and implement tax-efficient, sustainable strategies that support their business goals. 

As a Partner, I'm also responsible for driving new client opportunities, nurturing client relationships, delivering tailored tax advice, and mentoring the next generation of leaders on our team.

Share with us more about your journey in the accounting profession in the US, and how it led you to becoming a Partner in 12 years. 

Kenneth: After graduating from SMU in 2011, I started my career in corporate tax at KPMG Singapore, before discovering my passion for international tax about a year later. After nearly three years at KPMG Singapore, I moved to the US in 2013 to pursue a career in international tax. 

I started as an entry-level Associate to master the complexities of the US tax system, which greatly differs from most tax systems around the world. Over the next decade, I worked at a couple of Big Four firms and RSM here in the US. 

This journey led me to Armanino, a top 20 national accounting and consulting firm, where I became Partner in 2023, and eventually to my current role as a Partner with Grant Thornton.

Having spent the past 10 years building your career in the US, what motivated you to remain and develop your career there? 

Kenneth: Frankly, during my first few years in the US, I considered moving back to Singapore or Jakarta, my hometown. On top of being homesick, there seemed to be better opportunities for career progression toward partnership at Big Four firms in Asia.

However, when I relocated from Seattle to Orange County in 2017 (my fourth year in the US), everything changed. I fell in love with Orange County's weather, lifestyle, and perfect balance of professional ambition and quality of life. I truly believe Orange County is one of the best places (if not the best place) to live in the US. 

At that same time, I moved from a Big Four firm to RSM – the range of growth opportunities and entrepreneurial environment in a middle-market firm suited me well. 

These two turning points led me to settle down and build my life here in the US.

You’ve been in the tax field since graduation. What led you to specialise in this field for more than a decade?

Kenneth: I love thinking out of the box and developing creative tax strategies to help my clients grow and succeed in their business. 

On a more fundamental level, I've always believed that businesses generally do a better job putting money to work than the government. 

Delivering tax savings enables my clients to reinvest their funds and expand their businesses, creating value for shareholders and job opportunities for the community. This impact, along with the personal and professional rewards of being a Partner, keeps me motivated every day.

How has your undergraduate education at SMU School of Accountancy helped you achieve your success today? 

Kenneth: SMU has played a big role in instilling confidence. The University’s interactive pedagogy encouraged me to be bold and express my ideas with conviction. The communication and presentation skills that I developed at SMU have helped me to stand out, both in Singapore and the US. 

Without my SMU degree, I probably wouldn't have kickstarted my career at KPMG Singapore. My journey might have looked very different.

Having spent time working in both Singapore and the US, what advice do you have for graduates interested in exploring an accounting career overseas?

Kenneth: If you're thinking of moving to the US (or a Western country), my advice is to build the confidence to speak up. 

Respectfully challenge your boss; flag areas for improvement and suggest solutions – even if they're unconventional. You can never have too much confidence in a US working environment and while this mindset can sometimes be frowned upon in Singapore, it will help you succeed in the US. 

I also recommend choosing a field that’s transferrable globally (and fits your interest). This could be: 

• International tax
• Transfer pricing
• Strategy consulting
• Supply chain consulting
• Data analytics 

And finally, understand the educational or licensing requirements in your target country, and start working on them early. It's also helpful to find someone who has relocated there and is working in your field, so they can help you navigate the processes and give recommendations. 

Above all, consider all personal and family implications throughout this process, which I’d argue is the most important piece of the puzzle.

Kenneth’s journey exemplifies how bold choices, adaptability, and perseverance can pave the way for a global career in accounting. 

Inspired by his journey to becoming an international tax specialist in the US? Discover how the SMU Bachelor of Accountancy can open doors to a world of opportunities.