With a tenure at Wilkin & Guttenplan PC that dates to 2005 – when he worked as an intern at the mid-size public accounting firm – Dan Fiorentino began the new year in a new role, as managing shareholder.

On Jan. 8, East Brunswick-based WilkinGuttenplan announced Ed Guttenplan’s transition from the leadership position after 40 years of service. According to the firm, he will remain an integral member of the leadership team. Fiorentino’s appointment was effective Jan. 1.

Following his internship with the firm, Fiorentino joined in a full capacity in 2006 and was named a principal in 2019. He specializes in providing consulting services to clients in all business cycle phases, from operational improvements, tax planning and compliance in early stages to succession planning and due diligence work in later phases.

According to the firm, the process to choose Guttenplan’s successor was meticulous, engaging partners and consultants to find “a collaborative team player with exceptional client service skills, a proficient listener, and a strategic thinker.”

The change comes as many accounting firms face challenges within an evolving profession. Amid the transition, WilkinGuttenplan said its vision to foster long-lasting relationships, promote a culture that values and supports employees and deliver proactive service remains steadfast. “This transition marks an opportunity to reinvigorate the firm’s commitment to understanding client needs intimately and providing tailored and innovative solutions,” which will include embracing technological advancements.

Fiorentino has played a part in its administrative duties for many years, the firm said, and has helped contribute to developing staff, including with training and orientation programs. Early in his career, he led the Advisory Council, which is charged with addressing all employee concerns – experience likely to serve him well in his new position as head of the Executive Committee. He also leads the Strategic Planning Committee, focused on both short- and long-term goals for WilkinGuttenplan.

“Dan’s integrity is unwavering, his accountability unquestionable, and his self-awareness and respect for others set a gold standard. A key architect in shaping the strategic trajectory of our practice groups, departments, and leadership teams, he navigates challenges with a blend of fearless resolve and empathetic wisdom,” said shareholder and COO Deb Norwicke. “A master of tactful communication, he emboldens individuals to take calculated risks and inspires them to aspire to their utmost potential.”

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Founded in 1983, WilkinGuttenplan serves closely held/middle market businesses and their owners, high-net-worth individuals; technology and life sciences companies; medical/health care practices; real estate entities; the sports/entertainment industry; condominiums; cooperatives and homeowner associations; as well as several niche markets.

“I am proud of what we have achieved during my tenure, and I am confident that Dan will lead the firm to new heights,” Guttenplan said. “His dedication and innovative mindset will be instrumental in our continued success.”

Co-founder and shareholder Ed Wilkin echoed that sentiment. “Dan Fiorentino, who started as an intern at WG, has flourished, evolving into a powerhouse of accounting, consulting, and leadership,” he said in a statement. “His credentials make him the ideal successor to fill the shoes of my esteemed friend, Ed G., as Managing Shareholder.”

“I feel incredibly honored and excited to take on this new role,” Fiorentino commented. “Our firm has a remarkable track record over the past 40 years under the guidance of Ed Guttenplan. I will do everything I can to continue this success, upholding WG’s core values while adapting to the changing world.”