Background

After more than 40 years in the industry, there’s not much Rick hasn’t seen, and there’s nothing he shies away from. “There’s literally never a dull moment, and that very challenge keeps me going. For people who have been around this long, it’s important to stay tuned into the work we’re doing, and also to help mentor new people just coming up.” After his first 30 years working with Big 4 firms, Rick felt the need to change, and approached Geffen Mesher about coming aboard. “I’ve always enjoyed working with closely held, middle market companies, whether they’re building toward growth, acquisition or something else. In my mind, the bigger accounting firms have gotten away from this focus. I’d rather have a direct, one-on-one connection with business owners and ownership groups.”

Since his move to Geffen Mesher, Rick’s been instrumental in paving the way for others from larger firms who have the same desire. “When you’re new to any firm, it’s important to have someone who’s looking out for you, or else it’s easy to get lost. I take it upon myself to reach out to anyone who’s really trying to find their way, and is serious about getting better at what they do. Effort means more than whether or not we share the same interests.” Rick donates considerable time and resources to a number of non-profit groups and organizations, including the Portland State Foundation, where he was the Board President and member of its Board for 13 years, as well grassroots organizations such as Loaves and Fishes.