Norfolk, Va. - Wall, Einhorn & Chernitzer, P.C. (WEC), a CPAmerica member firm, announces shifts in leadership after several years of thoughtful succession planning. Shareholder Angela Kerns, CPA, HCCP, assumed the role of managing shareholder on Jan. 1, 2020, as successor to Marty Einhorn, who has served as managing shareholder since the firm was established in 1989. Einhorn will retire Dec. 31, 2019, after 30 years of distinguished service to WEC and his clients. His leadership and vision have been an integral component of the growth and success of the firm. Of the three founding shareholders, he is the first to retire. Alvin Wall, CPA, continues as an active member of the tax department and Jeffrey Chernitzer, CPA, PFS, is a wealth management and investment advisor.
The decision to name Kerns as managing shareholder was reached after careful consideration by the founders and fellow shareholders Joanna Brumsey, CPA, David Chase, CPA, Paul DiNardo, CPA, Richard Groover, CPA, MSA, and Nancy Hall, CPA, AEP®. In her expanded role, Kerns will be responsible for all aspects of the CPA firm’s performance. Penelope Bustamante, the firm’s chief operating officer, will assist Kerns in her transition.
Kerns has 20 years of public accounting experience. Since joining the firm in 2002, Kerns has been a key member of the accounting and auditing department. Currently, she leads the firm’s real estate client service team specializing in affordable housing audits and providing accounting and consulting services. She is also the co-leader of the firm’s not-for-profit and employee benefit plan client service groups. Outside the firm, Kerns is an active member of the Rotary Club of Norfolk, the Planning Council and the Virginia and Tidewater Chapters of Certified Public Accountants. A graduate of James Madison University, she is an avid supporter of the Dukes football team.
“When it came to selecting a successor, the decision of the shareholder group was unanimous that Angela be the one leading the firm going forward,” said Einhorn. “One of the most important roles of managing shareholder is leading your people. She has been a trusted source of guidance, always putting our team first.”
“I am excited and honored to take on the responsibilities of managing shareholder at Wall, Einhorn & Chernitzer,” said Kerns. “As the accounting industry is changing at a rapid pace, I look forward to leading WEC as we continue to evolve and grow.”