Richard Groover, CPA, MSA – 2018 40 Under 40 Honoree

• Instagram: @walleinhornchernitzer
• Facebook: @weccpa

Professional Associations/Memberships: 

• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (governing council)
• Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants (chair, executive committee member, board member)
• Tidewater Chapter of the Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants

Career highlights:

I am the youngest person to be named Shareholder/Partner in the history of the firm, an achievement which came as a result of intense dual focus on developing individual expertise and serving as a mentor to a team of professionals within the firm. Over a span of 10 years, I joined the firm as an entry-level Staff Accountant and earned five promotions, culminating in my being named one of the firm’s 9 Shareholders.

A few years ago, I noticed room for improvement in the firm’s audit procedure, so I led the selection and implementation teams for a complete overhaul of audit software and methodology.

What are you doing to make a difference in the profession, your community, the world?

I regularly meet one-on-one with lower-level staff in the firm as a part of our formal mentorship program, encouraging and empowering them to develop the accounting and leadership skills that will equip them to take on higher-level roles within the firm. I was part of the development of VSCPA’s “Vision 2025,” a strategic vision that includes facilitating CPA community involvement and improving access to financial education across Virginia. I am also a member of the United Way of South Hampton Roads Young Philanthropists and also serve as an adjunct professor in the accounting department of Old Dominion University.

Favorite books/websites/speakers:

In general Jim Collins is a fantastic author and the studies and research in his work really make me reflect on my own choices.

What do you see yourself doing professionally in 10 years?

I see myself continuing to grow with WEC, this is an exciting time in the industry with the infusion of IT into every aspect of our business and I expect to be part of several new service lines in the next 10 years. I am determined to be a major force in the growth and success of the firm and the industry.

What accounting conferences do you normally attend?

I generally attend the Virginia Society of CPA’s Audit and Accounting conference, the AICPA Employee Benefit Plan Conference and various other AICPA conferences depending on the overall business and regulatory climate.

What websites/magazines do you use to keep up on news of the accounting profession? Accounting Today, The Journal of Accountancy and The Wall Street Journal are all great sources.

 

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See more of the 2018 40 Under 40 Honorees, and the 20 Under 40 Vendor Superstars.