James I. Rickard, III, CPA, formed the firm in 1978. Prior to the organization of the firm, he was with a national "Big Five" accounting firm for eleven years, functioning as a manager in its tax practice when he left them to join the local firm environment. His experience encompasses substantially all aspects of taxation with particular emphasis in both multi-corporate and international tax planning. In addition to being the managing partner of the firm, he directs his energies toward business and tax planning for the firm's uniquely diverse clientele. Mr. Rickard is a graduate of Northwestern University.