Rick Chrisman CPA, MST

Rick Chrisman

Shareholder

Education/Certification

I received my undergraduate degree in accounting and business from Aquinas College in 1980 and my master’s degree in taxation from Grand Valley State University in 1991. I earned my CPA in Michigan in 1983.

What is your area of specialty – how do you best help your clients?

I provide advisory services to a variety of family-owned businesses and individual clients. Those services usually involve strategic, tax and/or succession planning. I also try to meet with my clients on a regular basis and help them navigate the ongoing challenges of running a business. Other services provided include audit, review and compilation of financial statements, and tax return preparation.

My primary internal responsibilities include firm management, staff development and new business development.

What are your top 5 strengths? What is your favorite strength?

1. Arranger
2. Maximizer
3. Developer
4. Individualization
5. Learner

Developer is my favorite strength. I enjoy developing individual players or employees. I often can see the potential they have and want them to see it too and eventually reach it. It is very satisfying to me to see them develop over time.

How do you like to give back to the community?

I am an active board member in the Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce and CASA of Kent County. I also am active at Our Lady of Consolation Church and the Knights of Columbus. I have been blessed in many ways and enjoy spending time helping others that can benefit from my skills.

What are your superpowers – something you’re good at that others should know about?

I believe my super power is that my leadership style is that of a coach. I spent many years coaching my kids in basketball, soccer and baseball. My coaching philosophy is to focus on individual fundamentals, team chemistry and having fun. My role was to make sure kids developed a love for the game and the skills needed to advance in the sport. A lot of what I learned from coaching I have been able to use managing the Hungerford team. I think of myself as the Hungerford coach. I want our staff to continually improve as individuals, improve as a team, and enjoy what they are doing and who they work with.

Accomplishment you’re proud of?

Business – I am proud of the organization we have built here at Hungerford. We have an amazing team and we strive each day to maintain a culture where our employees will enjoy coming to work and can thrive in their careers.

Personal – I have been married to my wife Brenda for over 36 years. All six of our kids have graduated from college and are living happy and healthy lives. They all live locally and we see them and our grandkids often.

Tell us about your life outside of work (family/pets/sports/activities/interests/hobbies)

I enjoy boating, camping, skiing, running, biking and spending quality time with my family and friends.

What is your favorite part of working at the firm?

I really enjoy the people I work with and the opportunity to interact with them on a daily basis.