SAN FRANCISCO, June 19, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Burr Pilger Mayer, Inc. (BPM), one of the largest California-based accounting and consulting firms, today announced that it has selected James K. Wallace to become its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2016.
The appointment of Mr. Wallace follows a year-long search in which BPM, with assistance from an executive search firm, reached across the country to find an executive with the right combination of proven leadership ability, technical expertise and drive to lead the firm through its next stage of growth.
Mr. Wallace served most recently as COO, Treasurer and as an owner and principal at Rehmann, a full service CPA and wealth management firm based in Michigan. Mr. Wallace led the firm's rapid growth strategy with the integration and completion of more than 25 mergers to create a regional powerhouse with $110 million in revenue, 19 offices, 60 partners and approximately 800 associates. Rehmann's revenue more than doubled during his tenure as COO.
"Jim is the perfect fit for our firm," said Curtis Burr, a BPM founder and its current CEO. "He shares our people-centric focus and the belief that success is based on creating a culture of excellence that always puts clients' interests first. With his vision and leadership, BPM will be in an ideal position to take advantage of the many growth opportunities that lie ahead."
Mr. Wallace's experience spans every aspect of public accounting. He was responsible for implementing various programs at Rehmann that enhanced client services and increased revenue and profitability. He oversaw owner and principal performance and goal setting, and served as a member of the compensation team. He also was responsible for Marketing and Sales, Operations, Finance, Information Technology, and Human Resources.
Additionally, he helped develop and implement Rehmann's core values, mission and vision statements and won numerous Rehmann awards for integrity and promoting the success of associates, particularly women. Earlier this month, the Accounting & Financial Women's Alliance named Rehmann to its MOVE Project Best CPA Firms for Women list – a distinction the firm has earned for three consecutive years.
"Jim combines an in-depth knowledge of public accounting and the operations of CPA firms with an innate ability to mentor and inspire the people he works with," said Steven Kelly, Rehmann's Chairman and CEO. "I have no doubt that he will be an exceptional CEO for BPM, and I know I speak for everyone at Rehmann in wishing him and his family all the best."
Mr. Wallace will split his time between Rehmann and BPM for the rest of this year, making frequent visits here to thoroughly acquaint himself with BPM before officially assuming the office of CEO. He attended high school on the Peninsula, and he and his family are looking forward to rejoining their extensive family that resides in the Bay Area and Southern California.
"I am honored to have been selected CEO of a firm with BPM's reputation and which serves such a vibrant, creative and diverse business community," Mr. Wallace said. "I am eager to listen to and learn from the firm's partners and employees and to meet with BPM's clients to understand their needs and work with them as they continue to grow and succeed. BPM's outstanding talent is at the heart of the firm's success, and I look forward to adding my experience to this team."
About BPM
Burr Pilger Mayer, Inc. is one of the largest California-based accounting and consulting firms, ranking in the top 50 in the country. It has served the San Francisco Bay Area's emerging and mid-cap businesses, as well as high-net-worth individuals, since 1986. BPM has extensive experience in a broad range of industries including technology, life science, manufacturing, food, wine and craft brewing, automotive, nonprofits, real estate and construction. The firm's international tax practice is one of the largest on the West Coast and builds value for clients across the globe. The firm also has a well recognized SEC practice, representing approximately 35 public reporting companies, mostly in the technology industry. BPM was named one of the Best Accounting Firms to Work For by Accounting Today and was recently named one of the Best Places to Work by the Silicon Valley Business Journal and San Francisco Business Times. For more information, please visit www.bpmcpa.com.
SOURCE Burr Pilger Mayer, Inc.
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