Advantage Audit:
Authors
WithumSmith+Brown
With 15 offices throughout the mid-Atlantic region, Florida, Colorado, and the Cayman Islands, WithumSmith+Brown (Withum) brings clients the benefits of a larger organization without sacrificing the attention and personal service that one expects from a local business. Withum’s regional offices ensure easy access to our dedicated, experienced team and the advice you need to achieve greater growth and financial success. Our clients represent a broad spectrum of industries and range in size from small, entrepreneurial start-ups to billion-dollar, publicly held companies.CIRA
Alfred Erdmann, CPA, CGMA, is a partner based in WithumSmith+Brown’s New York office, has more than 20 years of professional accounting experience, and is the audit services leader of the firm’s real estate services group. He is a licensed certified public accountant in New York, New Jersey, and California and assists clients on both coasts. Specializing in accounting and auditing services for individuals and privately held entities, he has specific expertise with real estate entities. He is dedicated to educating businesses and individuals on the ever-evolving landscape within the accounting industry. Al received a bachelor of arts degree in accounting and information systems and economics as well as a master’s degree in accounting from Queens College. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). Al is a frequent speaker at various industry seminars and a former adjunct lecturer of accounting at Queens College of the City University of New York.Technical Reviewer
Eugene L. Smith, CPA, is based in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) New York office and has more than 40 years of professional accounting experience. As a quality review partner, Gene helps ensure that the firm’s accounting and auditing engagements meet or exceed the requirements of professional standards. His industry expertise includes real estate, common interest realty associations (CIRAs), service companies, distribution, manufacturing, not-for-profit organizations, and pension and profit-sharing plans. He has expertise in CIRA audits, reviews, and compilations. Gene is also a member of Withum’s Accounting and Auditing niche and is an author of the firm’s A&A blog, The Auditors’ Opinion. Gene received his bachelor of science degree in accounting from Brooklyn College. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). Prior to joining Withum, Gene was a partner with EisnerLubin llp (which merged with Withum in 2011). Gene resides in Staten Island, New York.
Construction
Stephen J. Antenucci, CPA, is a manager in the accounting and auditing department of WithumSmith+Brown’s Red Bank, New Jersey, office. Prior to joining Withum, Stephen was a Controller at a family-owned business that provides shoring and trenching equipment for construction companies. With more than 15 years of professional experience, Stephen provides attest and consulting services to companies in the construction and manufacturing industry. A graduate of Kean University, Stephen earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA). He resides in Middlesex County, New Jersey.Technical Reviewer
Paul E. Kuhl, III, CPA.CITP, CGMA, is a senior manager in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) accounting and auditing department. He has more than 30 years of professional experience, including accounting and auditing services in the construction industry and publicly traded companies. Paul is a team leader of WS+B’s Construction Services Team and is a member of the firm’s Professional Services Group. Prior to joining Withum, Paul gained extensive accounting and auditing experience, both public and private, by working with KPMG Peat Marwick and Deloitte & Touche as a senior manager and as the controller of an Engineering News-Record 100 heavy construction company. A graduate of Gettysburg College in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, Paul is a certified public accountant and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA). He is also on the board of directors and is the past president of the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA)–New Jersey Chapter. Paul is the chairman of the Lambertville Planning Board and is on the board of directors and is chairman of the MIDJersey Chamber of Commerce.
Defined Benefit Pension Plan
Wendy Y. Terry, CPA, CGMA, is a partner in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) Florida office. She is an employee benefit plan audit specialist, with special concentration in defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Prior to joining Withum, Wendy led the Southeast region’s employee benefit plan audit practice for a large national firm. As a critical member of the firm’s employee benefits task force committee, she helped set policies and procedures for the firm. As an expert in her field, she has developed and presented a number of continuing education programs for all levels, delivered both internally and externally, including presenting various topics at the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) National Employee Benefit Conference and the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA) Continuing Professional Education Mega Conference. Wendy is a former member of the AICPA Employee Benefit Expert Panel; she is a past chair of the board of directors for the South Lake Chamber of Commerce. She serves on the board of directors of Cornerstone Hospice and is the current treasurer. Wendy is also a member of the Audit Committee for the Special Olympics Florida. Wendy volunteers extensively for various education initiatives and has served on the Lake County Career Technical Educational Advisory Board, the South Lake Community Foundation Education Grant Committee, and the Chamber’s Education Committee. In 2008, Wendy was one of three finalists for the Athena Award, a prestigious award that recognizes female leaders in the community.Technical Reviewer
David R. Dacey, CPA, is the practice leader for WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) Employee Benefit Plan services group, the group that conducts the audits of the firm’s Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) clients. He has specific expertise with defined benefit, defined contribution, limited scope 401(k), limited scope 403(b), and union health and welfare plans. Dave is also a partner in Withum’s Technical Resources department and is based in the firm’s New Brunswick office. With more than 30 years of professional accounting experience, Dave is a certified public accountant in the state of New Jersey. Dave works with the Withum accounting and auditing policy committee and is responsible for researching and disseminating updates on technical accounting and auditing pronouncements to the firm’s professional personnel. His experience spans many industries, including various aspects of manufacturing, wholesale and distribution, and service industries, including the legal and medical professions, construction, and retail. Dave received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey. Before joining Withum, Dave was a manager with a large regional firm and with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). He is a member of the AICPA, where he has participated in various task forces of the Securities and Exchange Commission Practice Section Peer Review Committee. He is also a member of the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA) and is a frequent presenter at various NJSCPA educational seminars, including the annual ERISA conferences for 2010 through 2016; the New York Society of Certified Public Accountants Employee Benefit Plan Conference for 2014, 2015, and 2016; and the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants Employee Benefit Plan Conference for 2015. Dave has also made numerous presentations to other organizations, accounting firms, and the business and civic communities and has been a presenter at the National Conference for Peer Reviewers sponsored by the AICPA. Dave resides in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Defined Contribution
Alfred Erdmann, CPA, CGMA, is a partner based in WithumSmith+Brown’s New York office and has more than 20 years of professional accounting experience. He is a licensed certified public accountant in New York, New Jersey, and California and assists clients on both coasts. Specializing in accounting and auditing services for individuals and privately held entities, he has specific expertise with defined contribution and limited scope 401(k) plans. He is dedicated to educating businesses and individuals on the ever-evolving landscape within the accounting industry. Al received a bachelor of arts degree in accounting and information systems and economics, as well as a master’s degree in accounting from Queens College. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). Al is a frequent speaker at various industry seminars and a former adjunct lecturer of accounting at Queens College of the City University of New York.Technical Reviewer
David R. Dacey, CPA, is the practice leader for WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) Employee Benefit Plan Services Group, the group that conducts the audits of the firm’s ERISA clients. He has specific expertise with defined benefit, defined contribution, limited scope 401(k), limited scope 403(b), and union health and welfare plans. Dave is also a partner in Withum’s Technical Resources Department and is based in the firm’s New Brunswick office. With more than 30 years of professional accounting experience, Dave is a certified public accountant in the state of New Jersey. Dave works with the Withum accounting and auditing policy committee and is responsible for researching and disseminating updates on technical accounting and auditing pronouncements to the firm’s professional personnel. His experience spans many industries, including various aspects of manufacturing, wholesale and distribution, and service industries including the legal and medical professions, construction, and retail. Dave received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey. Before joining Withum, Dave was a manager with a large regional firm and with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). He is a member of the AICPA, where he has participated in various task forces of the SEC Practice Section Peer Review Committee. He is also a member of the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA) and is a frequent presenter at various NJSCPA educational seminars, including the annual ERISA conferences for 2010 through 2016; the NYSCPA EBP Conference for 2014, 2015, and 2016; and the CTSCPA EBP Conference for 2015. Dave has also made numerous presentations to other organizations, accounting firms, and the business and civic communities and has been a presenter at the National Conference for Peer Reviewers sponsored by the AICPA. Dave resides in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Investment Entities
Joseph M Cassano Jr., CPA, is an audit senior manager in WithumSmith+Brown’s New York office. He has over 12 years of experience providing accounting, tax, and consulting services to clients in the alternative investments sector. Joe is currently focused as a business advisor to all kinds of alternative investments including hedge funds, funds-of-funds, and private equity funds. Joe’s experience with alternative investment (including hedge and private equity funds-of-funds) includes funds with assets under management ranging from $1 million to $5 billion and includes a wide range of financial products including common stock, derivatives and various debt instruments. In addition to his client responsibilities, Joe is actively involved in the development of best practices in the hedge fund industry, and the development of in-house training programs to all levels of professional personnel. Joe is a graduate of the Pace University with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in public accounting. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA), and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). Joe is also an active member of the Investment Management Committee of the NYSSCPA. He resides in Monmouth County, NJ.Technical Reviewer
Frank R. Boutillette, CPA/ABV, is a partner based in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) New York office and has more than 30 years of accounting and auditing experience. He is a licensed certified public accountant in the states of New York and New Jersey and specializes in accounting and auditing and business valuation services. Frank is the practice leader of Withum’s Financial Services & Investment Group and has a great deal of experience working with investment companies (hedge funds and mutual funds), broker-dealers, private equity companies, registered investment advisors, closely held businesses, and construction companies. He also performs peer and quality reviews of CPA firms. A graduate of Rutgers University-Newark, Frank received his bachelor’s degree in accounting. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA), where he served as president. Frank is a member of the NJCPA Peer Review Executive Committee, which administers peer reviews on behalf of the AICPA in New Jersey. He is past chair of both the NJCPA Accounting and Auditing Standards Interest Group and the NJCPA Accounting and Auditing Resource Group. Frank is a former member of the Audit Committee for the NJCPA and past treasurer of the NJCPA. He recently completed a three-year term on the AICPA Peer Review Board. The Peer Review Board is responsible for maintaining, furthering, and governing the activities of the Peer Review Program, including the issuance of peer review standards and peer guidance, while being mindful of the profession’s covenant to serve the public interest with integrity and objectivity. Frank is a frequent lecturer on accounting and auditing topics to professional and business groups. He has been quoted in several publications and is the coauthor of three books on accounting. Frank resides in Ocean County, New Jersey.
Limited Scope 401(k)
Alfred Erdmann, CPA, CGMA, is a partner based in WithumSmith+Brown’s New York office and has more than 20 years of professional accounting experience. He is a licensed certified public accountant in New York, New Jersey, and California and assists clients on both coasts. Specializing in accounting and auditing services for individuals and privately held entities, he has specific expertise with defined contribution and limited scope 401(k) plans. He is dedicated to educating businesses and individuals on the ever-evolving landscape within the accounting industry. Al received a bachelor of arts degree in accounting and information systems and economics, as well as a master’s degree in accounting from Queens College. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). Al is a frequent speaker at various industry seminars and a former adjunct lecturer of accounting at Queens College of the City University of New York.Technical Reviewer
David R. Dacey, CPA, is the practice leader for WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) Employee Benefit Plan Services Group, the group that conducts the audits of the firm’s Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) clients. He has specific expertise with defined benefit, defined contribution, limited scope 401(k), limited scope 403(b), and union health and welfare plans. Dave is also a partner in Withum’s Technical Resources Department and is based in the firm’s New Brunswick office. With more than 30 years of professional accounting experience, Dave is a certified public accountant in the state of New Jersey. Dave works with the Withum accounting and auditing policy committee and is responsible for researching and disseminating updates on technical accounting and auditing pronouncements to the firm’s professional personnel. His experience spans many industries, including various aspects of manufacturing, wholesale and distribution, and service industries including the legal and medical professions, construction, and retail. Dave received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey. Before joining Withum, Dave was a manager with a large regional firm and with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). He is a member of the AICPA, where he has participated in various task forces of the SEC Practice Section Peer Review Committee. He is also a member of the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA) and is a frequent presenter at various NJSCPA educational seminars, including the annual ERISA conferences for 2010 through 2017; the NYSCPA EBP Conference for 2014, 2015, and 2016; and the CTSCPA EBP Conference for 2015. Dave has also made numerous presentations to other organizations, accounting firms, and the business and civic communities and has been a presenter at the National Conference for Peer Reviewers sponsored by the AICPA. Dave resides in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Limited Scope 403(b)
Virginia Piccolo, CPA, RMA, PSA, is a partner based in WithumSmith+Brown’s Red Bank, New Jersey, office and has more than 25 years of direct experience in providing audit, tax, and consulting services to various companies ranging from closely held businesses to multinational corporations with a special interest in distribution, manufacturing, real estate, technology, nonprofit organizations, and pension plans. Virginia is also part of the leadership committee for the firm’s Manufacturing, Distribution and Transportation Group and Employee Benefit Plan Services Group. Virginia received her bachelor of arts degree in accounting from William Paterson University, New Jersey. She started her career in 1990 at United Weight Control, a private company, and then joined Lerch, Vinci, & Higgins, CPAs, from 1991–1996, and Schonbraun, Safris, McCann, and Bekrisky, CPAs, from 1996–2000. She is a certified public accountant in the state of New Jersey and is a member of both the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). She is a registered municipal accountant in the state of New Jersey (RMA) and a licensed public school accountant (PSA). Virginia is chair of the audit committee and board member of the United Way of Monmouth County. She is also a board member for the Midland Corporation Board Development Committee and actively participates in various chambers of commerce in the Monmouth County area.Technical Reviewer
David R. Dacey, CPA, is the practice leader for WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) Employee Benefit Plan Services Group, the group that conducts the audits of the firm’s ERISA clients. He has specific expertise with defined benefit, defined contribution, limited scope 401(k), limited scope 403(b), and union health and welfare plans. Dave is also a partner in Withum’s Technical Resources Department and is based in the firm’s New Brunswick office. With more than 30 years of professional accounting experience, Dave is a certified public accountant in the state of New Jersey. Dave works with the Withum accounting and auditing policy committee and is responsible for researching and disseminating updates on technical accounting and auditing pronouncements to the firm’s professional personnel. His experience spans many industries, including various aspects of manufacturing, wholesale and distribution, and service industries including the legal and medical professions, construction, and retail. Dave received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey. Before joining Withum, Dave was a manager with a large regional firm, and with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). He is a member of the AICPA, where he has participated in various task forces of the SEC Practice Section Peer Review Committee. He is also a member of the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA) and is a frequent presenter at various NJSCPA educational seminars including the annual ERISA conferences for 2010 through 2017; the NYSCPA EBP Conference for 2014, 2015, and 2016; and the CTSCPA EBP Conference for 2015. Dave has also made numerous presentations to other organizations, accounting firms, and the business and civic communities and has been a presenter at the National Conference for Peer Reviewers sponsored by the AICPA. Dave resides in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Manufacturing
James J. Hannan, CPA, is a partner based in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) Whippany, New Jersey office and has more than 30years of experience with a focus on multinational private and publicly held manufacturing, distribution, technology, professional services, and pharmaceutical companies. Jim has extensive expertise and knowledge in public offerings, Securities and Exchange Commission filings, International Financial Reporting Standards, private placements, and mergers and acquisitions. Jim, in his role as practice leader of Withum’s Manufacturing, Distribution & Logistics services group, is actively involved in the delivery of services to clients within those industries and sectors. He earned a bachelor of science degree in accounting from Villanova University and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA), the New Jersey Business & Industry Association Manufacturing Council, and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce. Jim is a board member of the Somerset County Business Partnership,Saint Peter’s University Hospital Foundation (emeritus), the Diocese of Metuchen’s Foundation for Education, and the Immaculata High School Advisory Board.Technical Reviewer
Robert W. Van Arnum, CPA, is based in Withum’s Princeton, New Jersey, office and is a partner in the firm’s Technical Resources department and a member of the Manufacturing, Distribution & Logistics services group. He is a licensed certified public accountant in the state of New Jersey and has more than 30 years of experience in private and public accounting, specializing in manufacturing companies. He administers the firm’s Quality Control Department and assists many of the firm’s largest clients on technical accounting projects such as Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) implementations, acquisition accounting, and equity transactions. In addition, he directs and coordinates the accounting, auditing, and reporting activities related to the firm’s publicly held clients. He is a graduate of Seton Hall University, where he received a bachelor of science in business administration. A member of the AICPA and the NJSCPA, Bob resides in Mercer County, New Jersey.
Medical Practice
Joseph J. Perez, CPA, is a partner based in the New Brunswick, New Jersey, office of WithumSmith+Brown (Withum), PC, and has more than 20 years of professional accounting and auditing experience. He is a certified public accountant in the states of New Jersey and New York and specializes in providing accounting, auditing, tax, financial, and reimbursement consulting services to healthcare and not-for-profit organizations. Joe is a graduate of Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, School of Business with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA), and the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA). He formerly was the chairman of both the NJSCPA healthcare interest group and the Accounting and Audit Resource Group. He has authored several articles that have been published in HFMA’s Garden State Focus and WS+B’s The Journal. Joe is currently a board member of Bridgeway Rehabilitation Services and also currently serves as a councilman and finance chair in his town.Technical Reviewer
Michael A. Serluco, CPA, is a partner with WithumSmith+Brown (Withum), Certified Public Accountants and Consultants, based in the firm’s Red Bank, New Jersey, office. With more than 25 years of professional accounting and auditing experience, he is a certified public accountant in New Jersey and New York and specializes in providing accounting, auditing, tax, financial, and reimbursement consulting services to healthcare and not-for-profit organizations. A graduate of the University of Maryland located in College Park, Maryland, Michael earned his bachelor of science degree in accounting. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA), the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA), and the Homecare Association of New Jersey. He is a past chair of the NJSCPA Nonprofit Interest Group and is a frequent speaker on current healthcare audit, tax, and reimbursement matters. Michael is very active in his community, having served on a number of hospital and other healthcare entity governing boards and committees.
Non-Public Companies/Distribution
Robert W. Van Arnum, CPA, PSA, is based in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) Princeton, New Jersey, office, and is a partner in the firm’s Technical Resources Department and a member of the Manufacturing, Distribution and Transportation Services Group. He is a licensed certified public accountant in the state of New Jersey and has more than 30 years of experience in private and public accounting, specializing in manufacturing companies. He administers the Firm’s Quality Control Department and assists many of the firm's largest clients on technical accounting projects such as FASB implementations, acquisition accounting and equity transactions. In addition, he directs and coordinates the accounting, auditing and reporting activities related to the firm's publicly held clients. He is a graduate of Seton Hall University, where he received a bachelor of science degree in business administration. A member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA), Bob resides in Mercer County, New Jersey.Technical Reviewers
Leonard Hecht, CPA, is a manager in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) Technical Resources Department. He is a licensed certified public accountant in the states of New York and New Jersey. He has more than 30 years of professional experience and performs technical reviews of audit and review engagements, handles technical research and consultation involving accounting and auditing matters for staff and clients, and performs numerous technical reviews of not-for-profit and single audit engagements. Len has expertise in the reviews, compilations and audits of investment companies and Common Interest Realty Associations (CIRAs). He is also a member of Withum’s Real Estate Group, Insurance Services Group, and Financial Services and Investment Group. A graduate of Brooklyn College, Len earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting. He started his career in a mid-sized accounting firm in New York City, and also worked at Ernst & Young. Len spent much of his career at the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), working in the professional ethics division, reviewing audit engagements of not-for-profit and governmental entities. Len is a member of the AICPA, the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA). Len has conducted external training on accounting and auditing issues, concentrating in the not-for-profit and government audit arenas.
Beverly H. Linane, CPA, PSA, is based in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) Red Bank, New Jersey, office, and is a manager and a member of the Technical Resources Department responsible for reviewing audit, review and compilations. Beverly is a member of the Government Services, Not for Profit and Education, and HealthCare Services Groups. She is a licensed certified public accountant in the state of New Jersey and a licensed public school accountant. Beverly has more than 30years of experience in public accounting, specializing in the nonprofit area, particularly in the educational arena and engagements requiring compliance with governmental regulations. She provides technical research and consultation regarding accounting and auditing matters to the firm and clients and has conducted internal and external training on accounting and auditing issues, concentrating in the not-for-profit and government audit areas. Beverly received her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Monmouth University, Long Branch. A member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA), Beverly resides in Ocean County, New Jersey.
Not-for-Profit
James J. Decker, CPA, is a partner based out of WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum)) East Brunswick office and has more than 30 years of experience in professional accounting. His areas of focus include not-for-profit organizations as well as closely held businesses in a variety of industries. Jim specializes in audit and consulting engagements for not-for-profit organizations, including those who receive state and federal financial assistance. Jim is the practice leader of the firm’s Not-for-Profit and Education Services Group. Jim graduated from the University of Scranton with a bachelor of science degree in accounting. He is a licensed certified public accountant in the states of New Jersey, New York, and Florida, and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA). Jim has earned the AICPA Advanced Single Audit Certificate and a licensed public school accountant in the state of New Jersey. Jim is an active member on many boards. He currently serves as vice chair for the New Brunswick and Long Branch Ronald McDonald Houses, and as a board member for the Kilgore Foundation. Prior to these positions, he was treasurer for the Katelyn Schwenzer Foundation and the Intersect Fund.Technical Reviewer
James P. Mulroy, CPA, CGMA, CGFM, is a partner in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) East Brunswick office with more than 30 years of experience in the financial affairs of not-for-profit and governmentally funded organizations—specifically, auditing and consulting. Jim’s expertise is auditing agencies funded by a wide variety of federal, state, and local programs. Jim serves as a team leader both for the firm’s Not-for-Profit and Education Services Group and for its Real Estate Services Group’s Affordable Housing subset. He has spoken on the topics of revenue recognition for not-for-profits and not-for-profit financial statements. Jim has also authored some of the articles for newsletters, which are released from the firm’s Not-for-Profit and Education Services Group members. Upon receiving his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Mount Saint Mary’s College, Jim went on to become a licensed certified public accountant in the states of New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. He is also a certified government financial manager (CGFM), and a licensed public school accountant in the state of New Jersey. Jim is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA), where he is the past leader of NJCPA’s Not-for-Profit Interest Group, and the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA). Jim has earned the AICPA Advanced Single Audit Certificate and Not-for-Profit Certificate II.
Real Estate
Alfred Erdmann, CPA, CGMA, is a partner based in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) New York office, has more than 20 years of professional accounting experience, and is the Audit Services Leader of the firm’s Real Estate Services Group. He is a licensed certified public accountant in New York, New Jersey, and California and assists clients on both coasts. Specializing in accounting and auditing services for individuals and privately held entities, he has specific expertise with real estate entities. He is dedicated to educating businesses and individuals on the ever-evolving landscape within the accounting industry. Al received a bachelor’s degree in accounting and information systems and economics, as well as a master’s degree in accounting, from Queens College. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). Al is a frequent speaker at various industry seminars and a former adjunct lecturer of accounting at Queens College of the City University of New York.Technical Reviewer
Rebecca Machinga, CPA, CGMA, is the Practice Leader of WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) Real Estate Services Group and is a partner based in Withum’s Princeton office. She is a licensed certified public accountant in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida and has more than 20 years of professional accounting experience. She specializes in audits, reviews, and tax and consulting services, primarily with real estate entities and closely held companies. Rebecca earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting at Trenton State College (now The College of New Jersey). She is a member of the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and is Advisor and Past-President of Commercial Real Estate Women, Inc. of New Jersey (CREW NJ) and an active committee member of the Real Estate Business Alliance of the Princeton Regional Chamber of Commerce. Rebecca is a member of the HLB International Real Estate Committee and former chair of the Dean’s Advisory Council for The College of New Jersey’s School of Business. She has served on the AICPA National Mentoring Task Force, has chaired part of a large fund-raising committee for the University Medical Center at Princeton, and served many years on the board of directors of the Princeton chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants. In addition to client service and community/professional activities, Rebecca has made many contributions within the firm. She has taken on leadership roles with Withum’s Women’s Leadership Development Initiative, the firm’s mentoring program, and firm recruiting. She has also served on Withum’s Performance Evaluation Committee and various other firm committees. She has been named one of New Jersey’s Best 50 Women in Business by NJBIZ, named to NJBIZ’s “Forty Under 40” list, and most recently was honored as one of the 2016 honorees of Executive Women of New Jersey’s Salute to the Policy Makers.
Restaurant/Bar
Terry Moncrief, CPA, is a partner based in WithumSmith+Brown’s Red Bank, New Jersey, office and has more than 25 years of professional experience specializing in consumer products, restaurants, and retail establishments and has significant administrative and finance experience in the private sector. He specializes in supervisory audits, accounting, tax, consulting, and business valuations. Terry received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Stockton University. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA). Terry is also active in the community, serving as a member of the Toms River Chamber of Commerce, the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society–Metro Jersey Chapter, The Jersey Shore Council of the Boy Scouts of America, and the Business Advisory Committee at Ocean County College.Technical Reviewer
Glenn Bellomy, CPA, is based in Withum’s Red Bank, New Jersey, office and has more than 25 years of accounting experience and comprehensive background in audit, accounting, tax, and management advisory services for clients in a variety of industries, including consumer products, not-for-profit, distribution, manufacturing and technology. He is the practice leader of WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) Consumer Products Services Group, working extensively with clients in the restaurant, food and beverage, auto, publishing, and retail industries. Here, he assists clients in securing financing, mergers and acquisitions and strategic planning, and implementing business and tax strategies. Glenn received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Monmouth University, New Jersey. He is a member of both the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). In addition, Glenn is very active in the community, serving as a trustee of the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties and as a member of the Eastern and Western Monmouth Chamber of Commerce, and the Monmouth University Business and Industry Council. He is a member of the New Jersey Restaurant Association, the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey, and the New Jersey Food Council.
Health & Welfare
Wendy Y. Terry, CPA, CGMA, is a partner in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum’s) Florida office. She is an employee benefit plan audit specialist, with special concentration in defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Prior to joining Withum, Wendy led the Southeast region’s employee benefit plan audit practice for a large national firm. As a critical member of the firm’s employee benefits task force committee, she helped set policies and procedures for the firm. As an expert in her field, she has developed and presented a number of continuing education programs for all levels, delivered both internally and externally, including presenting various topics at the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) National Employee Benefit Conference and the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA) Mega Conference. Wendy is a former member of the AICPA Employee Benefit Expert Panel; she is a past chair of the board of directors for the South Lake Chamber of Commerce. She is on the board of directors of Cornerstone Hospice, and is the current treasurer. Wendy is also a member of the audit committee for the Special Olympics Florida. Wendy volunteers extensively for various education initiatives and has served on the Lake County Career Technical Educational Advisory Board, the South Lake Community Foundation Education Grant Committee, and the Chamber’s education committee.Technical Reviewer
David R. Dacey, CPA, is the practice leader for WithumSmith+Brown's Employee Benefit Plan Services Group, the group that conducts the audits of the Firms ERISA clients. He has specific expertise with defined benefit, defined contribution, limited scope 401(k), limited scope 403(b), and union health and welfare plans. Dave is also a partner in WithumSmith+Browns Technical Resources Department and is based in the firms New Brunswick office. With more than 30 years of professional accounting experience, Dave is a certified public accountant in the state of New Jersey. Dave works with the WS+B accounting and auditing policy committee and is responsible for researching and disseminating updates on technical accounting and auditing pronouncements to the firms professional personnel. His experience spans many industries, including various aspects of manufacturing, wholesale and distribution, and service industries including the legal and medical professions, construction and retail. Dave received his bachelors degree in accounting from Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey. Before joining WS+B, Dave was a manager with a large regional firm and with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). He is a member of the AICPA, where he has participated in various task forces of the SEC Practice Section Peer Review Committee. He is also a member of the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA) and is a frequent presenter at various NJSCPA educational seminars, including the annual ERISA conferences for 2010 through 2017, the NYSCPA EBP Conference for 2014, 2015 and 2016, and the CTSCPA EBP Conference for 2015. Dave has also made numerous presentations to other organizations, accounting firms, and the business and civic communities and has been a presenter at the National Conference for Peer Reviewers sponsored by the AICPA. Dave resides in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Review
Jeffrey A. Shlefstein, CPA, is a partner based out of the New York City office of WithumSmith+Brown (Withum), PC, and has more than 20 years of professional accounting and auditing experience. He specializes in providing accounting and auditing services to a variety of industries including not-for-profit, investment partnerships, transportation and distribution, service companies, manufacturing, technology and startups, branding, and design. Jeff is a member of the startup and emerging growth technology group. In addition, Jeff has expertise in audit and advisory services for closely held businesses and entrepreneurial companies. Jeff received his BBA degree in accounting from Brooklyn College of the City University of New York and is a licensed certified public accountant in the state of New York. He is a member of the AICPA, NYSSCPA, the New York Technology Council (NYTC), and the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce (MCC).Technical Reviewer
Leonard Hecht, CPA, is a manager in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) Technical Resources department. He is a licensed certified public accountant in the states of New York and New Jersey. He has more than 30 years of professional experience and performs technical reviews of audit and review engagements, handles technical research and consultation involving accounting and auditing matters for staff and clients, and performs numerous technical reviews of not-for-profit and single audit engagements. Len has expertise in the reviews, compilations, and audits of investment companies and common interest realty associations (CIRAs). He is also a member of Withum’s Real Estate Group, Insurance Services Group, and Financial Services and Investment Group. A graduate of Brooklyn College, Len earned his bachelor of science degree in accounting. He started his career in a midsized accounting firm in New York City and also worked at Ernst & Young. Len spent much of his career at the AICPA, working in the professional ethics division reviewing audit engagements of not-for-profit and governmental entities. Len is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA). Len has conducted external training on accounting and auditing issues, concentrating in the not-for-profit and government audit arenas.
CIRA Review
Alfred Erdmann, CPA, CGMA, is a partner based in WithumSmith+Brown’s New York office, has more than 20 years of professional accounting experience, and is the audit services leader of the firm’s real estate services group. He is a licensed certified public accountant in New York, New Jersey, and California and assists clients on both coasts. Specializing in accounting and auditing services for individuals and privately held entities, he has specific expertise with real estate entities. He is dedicated to educating businesses and individuals on the ever-evolving landscape within the accounting industry. Al received a bachelor’s degree in accounting and information systems and economics as well as a master’s degree in accounting from Queens College. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). Al is a frequent speaker at various industry seminars and a former adjunct lecturer of accounting at Queens College of the City University of New York.Technical Reviewer
Eugene L. Smith, CPA, is based in WithumSmith+Brown’s (Withum) New York office and has more than 40 years of professional accounting experience. As a quality review partner, Gene helps ensure that the firm’s accounting and auditing engagements meet or exceed the requirements of professional standards. His industry expertise includes real estate, common interest realty associations (CIRAs), service companies, distribution, manufacturing, not-for-profit organizations, and pension and profit-sharing plans. He has expertise in CIRA audits, reviews, and compilations. Gene is also a member of Withum’s Accounting and Auditing niche and is an author of the firm’s A&A blog, The Auditors’ Opinion. Gene received his bachelor of science degree in accounting from Brooklyn College. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). Prior to joining Withum, Gene was a partner with EisnerLubin llp (which merged with Withum in 2011). Gene resides in Staten Island, New York.
CIRA Compilation
Jeffrey A. Shlefstein, CPA, is a partner based out of the New York City office of WithumSmith+Brown (Withum), PC, and has more than 20 years of professional accounting and auditing experience. He specializes in providing accounting and auditing services to a variety of industries including not-for-profit, investment partnerships, transportation and distribution, service companies, manufacturing, technology and startups, branding, and design. Jeff is a member of the startup and emerging growth technology group. In addition, Jeff has expertise in audit and advisory services for closely held businesses and entrepreneurial companies. Jeff received his BBA degree in accounting from Brooklyn College of the City University of New York and is a licensed certified public accountant in the state of New York. He is a member of the AICPA, NYSSCPA, the New York Technology Council (NYTC), and the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce (MCC).Technical Reviewer
Leonard Hecht, CPA, is a manager in Withum’s Technical Resources department. He is a licensed certified public accountant in the states of New York and New Jersey. He has more than 30 years of professional experience and performs technical reviews of audit and review engagements, handles technical research and consultation involving accounting and auditing matters for staff and clients, and performs numerous technical reviews of not-for-profit and single audit engagements. Len has expertise in reviews and compilations, audits of investment companies and common interest realty associations (CIRAs). He is also a member of Withum’s Real Estate Group, Insurance Services Group and Financial Services and Investment Group. A graduate of Brooklyn College, Len earned his bachelor of science degree in accounting. He started his career in a midsized accounting firm in New York City and also worked at Ernst & Young. Len spent much of his career at the AICPA, working in the professional ethics division reviewing audit engagements of not-for-profit and governmental entities. Len is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA). Len has conducted external training on accounting and auditing issues, concentrating in the not-for-profit and government audit arenas.
Compilation
Jeffrey A. Shlefstein, CPA, is a partner based out of the New York City office of WithumSmith+Brown (Withum), PC, and has more than 20 years of professional accounting and auditing experience. He specializes in providing accounting and auditing services to a variety of industries including not-for-profit, investment partnerships, transportation and distribution, service companies, manufacturing, technology and startups, branding, and design. Jeff is a member of the startup and emerging growth technology group. In addition, Jeff has expertise in audit and advisory services for closely held businesses and entrepreneurial companies. Jeff received his BBA degree in accounting from Brooklyn College of the City University of New York and is a licensed certified public accountant in the state of New York. He is a member of the AICPA, NYSSCPA, the New York Technology Council (NYTC), and the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce (MCC).Technical Reviewer
Leonard Hecht, CPA, is a manager in WithumSmith+Brown‘s (Withum) Technical Resources department. He is a licensed certified public accountant in the states of New York and New Jersey. He has more than 30 years of professional experience and performs technical reviews of audit and review engagements, handles technical research and consultation involving accounting and auditing matters for staff and clients, and performs numerous technical reviews of not-for-profit and single audit engagements. Len has expertise in reviews and compilations, audits of investment companies and common interest realty associations (CIRAs). He is also a member of Withum’s Real Estate Group, Insurance Services Group and Financial Services and Investment Group. A graduate of Brooklyn College, Len earned his bachelor of science degree in accounting. He started his career in a midsized accounting firm in New York City and also worked at Ernst & Young. Len spent much of his career at the AICPA, working in the professional ethics division reviewing audit engagements of not-for-profit and governmental entities. Len is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA). Len has conducted external training on accounting and auditing issues, concentrating in the not-for-profit and government audit arenas.