The Past
In the tapestry of time, some moments stand out as transformative. The year 1983 marked one such turning point for WilkinGuttenplan (WG), as two visionaries, both named Ed, embarked on a journey that would span four decades. From our humble beginnings as a small firm nestled in the heart of New Jersey, WG has blossomed into a dynamic institution with global reach, guided by core values and professionalism. Today, we find ourselves standing at a remarkable juncture in our journey with great pride and a profound sense of accomplishment as we celebrate 40 years in business. We reflect fondly on our extraordinary past, appreciate our present position, and eagerly anticipate the path ahead.
Forty years ago, two bold men took a leap of faith after a serendipitous encounter. Employees of the same firm, unfulfilled and unhappy with the current work culture, embarked on a journey to break the mold and start anew. The two Eds, equipped with complementary skills – one better suited to network while the other better suited to manage the practice – planned to start a firm where the culture would be the organization's backbone, employees would be heard, valued, and respected, and client satisfaction would be prioritized. It was an exciting time filled with so much promise. Many things would change over the years, but their vision and mission would remain constant. Like the reflection of the world outside, WG was a place of innovation, growth, and aspiration.
The Present
Emerging from that era, nimble and staff-focused, WG was recognized as a steadfast partner to businesses and individuals. The philosophy of their staff-focused culture was simple: if staff were happy, they would deliver excellent client service. Throughout the years, the size, talent, client base, and capabilities have drastically grown. A once small real estate practice group has exploded into an industry-leading practice. The firm was growing organically, and that organic growth was accelerated by merging in the Charles Jacobson CPA’s practice in 1986 and the McDevitt & Company in 1997. Continued growth became more strategic in areas where the firm wanted to develop deep expertise, and the acquisition of Kleiman & Weinshank, LLP in 2018, was a prime example. In a continued effort of evolution, WG launched a rebrand in 2019, introducing a new, modern look. In the last few years of this journey, the firm’s International, Real Estate, Client Accounting Advisory Services, and Life Sciences industries have gained exceptional momentum.
What began as a humble partnership has evolved into a nationally recognized, mid-sized accounting firm that provides flexible and unlimited work options to 150 people in multiple states while also providing proactive and expert services to clients around the globe. The firm has transformed into a fully diversified institution with 12 practice groups, serving various industries and cultivating and fostering long-lasting relationships with clients, employees, and strategic partners. Standing at this historical crossroads, we are excited to affirm our commitment to remaining independent. This decision reflects our dedication to preserving the values that have been at the heart of the firm from the very beginning. Our independence enables us to tailor our services to the unique needs of our clients, maintain an agile approach to the evolving industry landscape, and uphold our tradition of personalized attention to staff and clients.
Our Future Plans
We embark on a new chapter with an exciting announcement. Dan Fiorentino will be stepping into the role of Managing Partner in the upcoming year. Dan began his journey with the firm in 2005 as an intern and has risen to this honor. When asked about his most significant career success, he said,
Ed Guttenplan, the current Managing Shareholder whose steadfast guidance, along with Ed Wilkin and the other partners, has been instrumental in the firm’s journey so far, will remain an integral part of the leadership team. Their legacy will forever remain woven into the fabric of the firm.
Looking forward, we embrace the horizon with optimism and enthusiasm. We recognize the accounting industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and we will leverage our agility, experience, knowledge, and adaptability to navigate these changes. The relationships we’ve built, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the success stories we’ve been privileged to contribute to are a testament to the enduring partnerships we hold dear. As we celebrate these remarkable 40 years, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our cherished clients and strategic partners for their trust. We are honored to have been part of your journey. We will use this momentum to propel us into a future where we can better serve your needs, anticipate your challenges, and provide solutions that exceed your expectations. Our promise to you is one of resolute dedication, transparency, and a relentless pursuit of your success. To our dedicated team members and supportive strategic partners, none of this would have been possible without you. Your efforts have been instrumental in shaping this firm’s past, present, and future. The year 1983 may have been the beginning of our story, but it’s the collective efforts and shared achievements that have defined us.
Milestones have punctuated our journey, and as we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we also look ahead enthusiastically. The future holds exciting opportunities to deepen client relationships, expand our services and practice groups, and remain industry leaders. As we turn another page in the grand book of history and step into another transformative age, we do so with a sense of purpose and excitement, armed with the knowledge that the foundation we have built is solid and resilient.
The Past
In the tapestry of time, some moments stand out as transformative. The year 1983 marked one such turning point for WilkinGuttenplan (WG), as two visionaries, both named Ed, embarked on a journey that would span four decades. From our humble beginnings as a small firm nestled in the heart of New Jersey, WG has blossomed into a dynamic institution with global reach, guided by core values and professionalism. Today, we find ourselves standing at a remarkable juncture in our journey with great pride and a profound sense of accomplishment as we celebrate 40 years in business. We reflect fondly on our extraordinary past, appreciate our present position, and eagerly anticipate the path ahead.
Forty years ago, two bold men took a leap of faith after a serendipitous encounter. Employees of the same firm, unfulfilled and unhappy with the current work culture, embarked on a journey to break the mold and start anew. The two Eds, equipped with complementary skills – one better suited to network while the other better suited to manage the practice – planned to start a firm where the culture would be the organization’s backbone, employees would be heard, valued, and respected, and client satisfaction would be prioritized. It was an exciting time filled with so much promise. Many things would change over the years, but their vision and mission would remain constant. Like the reflection of the world outside, WG was a place of innovation, growth, and aspiration.
The Present
Emerging from that era, nimble and staff-focused, WG was recognized as a steadfast partner to businesses and individuals. The philosophy of their staff-focused culture was simple: if staff were happy, they would deliver excellent client service. Throughout the years, the size, talent, client base, and capabilities have drastically grown. A once small real estate practice group has exploded into an industry-leading practice. The firm was growing organically, and that organic growth was accelerated by merging in the Charles Jacobson CPA’s practice in 1986 and the McDevitt & Company in 1997. Continued growth became more strategic in areas where the firm wanted to develop deep expertise, and the acquisition of Kleiman & Weinshank, LLP in 2018, was a prime example. In a continued effort of evolution, WG launched a rebrand in 2019, introducing a new, modern look. In the last few years of this journey, the firm’s International, Real Estate, Client Accounting Advisory Services, and Life Sciences industries have gained exceptional momentum.
What began as a humble partnership has evolved into a nationally recognized, mid-sized accounting firm that provides flexible and unlimited work options to 150 people in multiple states while also providing proactive and expert services to clients around the globe. The firm has transformed into a fully diversified institution with 12 practice groups, serving various industries and cultivating and fostering long-lasting relationships with clients, employees, and strategic partners. Standing at this historical crossroads, we are excited to affirm our commitment to remaining independent. This decision reflects our dedication to preserving the values that have been at the heart of the firm from the very beginning. Our independence enables us to tailor our services to the unique needs of our clients, maintain an agile approach to the evolving industry landscape, and uphold our tradition of personalized attention to staff and clients.
The Future
We embark on a new chapter with an exciting announcement. Dan Fiorentino will be stepping into the role of Managing Partner in the upcoming year. Dan began his journey with the firm in 2005 as an intern and has risen to this honor. When asked about his most significant career success, he said,
“Being selected by the shareholders to become MP. It’s not about the title, though. They have the confidence and trust in me to follow in Ed’s footsteps. I can’t think of a better compliment. I am honored to continue the legacy and good work of the Eds.”
Looking forward, we embrace the horizon with optimism and enthusiasm. We recognize the accounting industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and we will leverage our agility, experience, knowledge, and adaptability to navigate these changes. The relationships we’ve built, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the success stories we’ve been privileged to contribute to are a testament to the enduring partnerships we hold dear. As we celebrate these remarkable 40 years, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our cherished clients and strategic partners for their trust. We are honored to have been part of your journey. We will use this momentum to propel us into a future where we can better serve your needs, anticipate your challenges, and provide solutions that exceed your expectations. Our promise to you is one of resolute dedication, transparency, and a relentless pursuit of your success. To our dedicated team members and supportive strategic partners, none of this would have been possible without you. Your efforts have been instrumental in shaping this firm’s past, present, and future. The year 1983 may have been the beginning of our story, but it’s the collective efforts and shared achievements that have defined us.
Milestones have punctuated our journey, and as we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we also look ahead enthusiastically. The future holds exciting opportunities to deepen client relationships, expand our services and practice groups, and remain industry leaders. As we turn another page in the grand book of history and step into another transformative age, we do so with a sense of purpose and excitement, armed with the knowledge that the foundation we have built is solid and resilient.
