From July 1, 2017, to July 1, 2024, I served as managing partner of Plante Moran, helping to expand our capabilities by increasing service offerings, investing in top talent, and helping us compete in a digital world.
I found myself attracted to business at a young age. In high school, while working at a landscaping business, I was intrigued by the business model. I had a good relationship with the owner, who entrusted me to help run the business — even though I was a teenager. While this might have been my first taste of working with numbers and consulting with a business owner, with a tax attorney for a dad, some might say it’s in my blood.
In 1984, after graduating from the University of Michigan, this love of business brought me to Plante Moran — which was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Throughout my career, I’ve held a number of leadership positions, including 13 years as a Group Managing Partner, where I focused on our industry practices, client service, growth, people development, and risk management. Here, I was part of a team that created a number of new services, including Plante Moran Group Benefit Advisors, the Enterprise Risk Management group, Plante Moran Global Services, and developing the firm’s Shanghai, Monterrey, Tokyo, and Mumbai offices. Earlier in my career, I served as office managing partner of the Ann Arbor location.
I have more than 35 years of public accounting experience, serving clients primarily in the manufacturing and higher education industries. My specific experience includes audit services, business and personal tax consulting, as well as serving as an advisory board member to several clients.
I also take great pride in perpetuating Plante Moran’s great culture. In fact, in 2023, I received a Leadership Award from the Detroit Free Press based solely on staff responding to the statement: “I have confidence in the leader of this company” and, in 2020, I received a Great Place to Work™ “For All” leadership award for that culture. In 2019 I was named one of the 500 Most Powerful Business Leaders in Metro Detroit, according to DBusiness magazine.
Most recently, I’ve been focused on keeping our culture strong as staff and the world adjust to a new normal. I’ve been working with firm leaders to ensure that Plante Moran continues to be a caring, supportive workplace that allows staff flexibility and fulfillment while serving existing clients and pursuing new business. While some things may have changed, one thing remains the same – our commitment to our hard-working staff who are the backbone of our “We care” culture.
When I’m not working, I enjoy traveling and outdoor activities with my wife, Cathy, and two sons.
