How Jackie Luna Entered the Music Industry as an Accountant

From bachata to salsa to merengue, music is a fundamental part of Latinx culture. As Latinx artists and celebrities continue making a mark on the global music industry, it is increasingly important that Latinas are represented—both creatively and in corporate settings. This representation ensures that the voices and perspectives of Latinas are included in shaping the industry’s future. That’s why Jacqueline Luna’s role in the industry is so vital.

As someone with Mexican grandparents, Jacqueline’s childhood was shaped by an ever-growing passion for music. Her early experiences with music were deeply influenced by her family’s traditions and cultural celebrations, which fostered a profound appreciation for the art form. In fifth grade, she began learning to play the flute and went on to perform in marching and concert bands in both high school and at Arizona State University.

As a college student, she joined EY US as a Launch intern, where she developed her skills in taxes, auditing, and consulting. Her internship experience provided a solid foundation in financial practices, equipping her with the tools to navigate complex accounting scenarios. Through networking with a diverse array of accountants and her own exploration, she discovered her passion for auditing, which led her to transition to a career as a full-time auditor. Still, she knew that she wanted to put her skills to work in the music industry, especially since it had been a major part of her life from a young age. Her desire to merge her dual passions for music and accounting allowed her to create a unique niche for herself in the industry.

In her current role at EY, Jacqueline is responsible for working with an important lineup of clients in the entertainment, music, and consumer industries, and her impact is far-reaching. She plays a crucial role in managing high-profile projects and navigating the intricacies of the entertainment business. She’s done everything from analyzing a company’s budget for Super Bowl licensing to assessing the performance of the newest novellas on the market. Every day, she uses her accounting skills in new and innovative ways, shaping how she sees the world through the lens of music and entertainment. Her work not only involves financial management but also contributes to the strategic direction and success of her clients’ projects. With accounting, she can expect a career that always feels engaging and exciting.

Jacqueline’s heritage and background has served as an asset, strengthening her impact in the industry. Her unique perspective, shaped by her cultural roots, allows her to approach problems and opportunities with a fresh, informed outlook. She has been able to create deep connections with Spanish-speaking clients, understand their unique backgrounds and points of view, and form trusting bonds. Rather than masking cultural upbringing and trying to assimilate to the perceived “right” way to show up at work, she recommends that the next generation fearlessly embrace their heritage—not only because it brings authenticity and diversity to the team, but also because it could accelerate and support professional development.

Through her accounting skills, Jacqueline has been able to transcend the music and entertainment industries and experience amazing opportunities, from professional growth to cool perks. Her journey demonstrates the power of combining personal passion with professional expertise, leading to a fulfilling and dynamic career. She can’t wait to see what’s to come for the profession as new generations of Latinx accountants join. Her optimism and forward-thinking approach highlight the potential for future professionals to continue breaking barriers and innovating in the field.

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