Today we’d like to introduce you to Steven Klein.
Hi Steven, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’m originally from Brooklyn, New York. Having developed a strong work ethic, I earned my bachelor’s degree with honors in accounting from New York University in 1983. I began my career at Ernst & Young, where I was promoted from staff to manager within three and a half years. At Ernst & Young, I developed my skills in audit and advisory services. In that position, recently married, I was looking for new opportunities and a different lifestyle, so I requested a transfer to Miami. That one career move proved to be the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the city and its wonderful community. In 1988, I had the chance to work on an initial public offering where we worked alongside Gerson Preston Klein Lips Eisenberg Gelber (Gerson Preston), who represented the principal. I saw a great opportunity with their firm, especially being a local boutique and iconic independent accounting firm, and soon joined the team.
In this role, I grew to chair our firm’s Assurance & Accounting Services practice, where I oversaw financial reporting, audits, attestation, and accounting advisory services. In my current position as Managing Partner, I have guided the firm through its successful transition from its founding partners to the next generation of leadership. Today, I lead a collaborative and diverse group of partners responsible for the firm’s governance, finances, service delivery, recruitment, and growth strategy. Throughout my professional life, I’ve taken a hands-on approach to advising clients and building meaningful relationships to fully understand and guide them in meeting their operational and financial goals. I am proud that today our firm has national and international reach, with a dedicated team of hardworking professionals who put our clients’ needs at the forefront each and every day.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Overall, I would say my road in the accounting industry has been an incredible journey that I have enjoyed very much, but it has certainly come with its own set of challenges. When I first stepped into my current Managing Partner role here at Gerson Preston, there was a great deal of uncertainty as I sought to honor the legacy of our founder, Gary R. Gerson, while guiding the firm into a new era. We’ve faced obstacles, including major technological shifts, hurricanes, COVID-19, and changing legislation and regulations.
The key factor in us meeting these challenges and moving forward in the right direction will always be people. As simple as it sounds, it is the truth. Our team and our clients are critical in weathering any change in the business climate. By developing trust, open dialogue, and collaboration within our team, we’ve been able to see roadblocks coming and turn challenges into growth opportunities, all while maintaining a positive company culture. This approach has allowed the firm not only to navigate obstacles successfully but also to emerge stronger and more resilient each and every time.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Gerson, Preston, Klein, Lips, Eisenberg & Gelber, P.A.?
Gerson, Preston, Klein, Lips, Eisenberg & Gelber, P.A. (Gerson Preston) is South Florida’s premier, full-service accounting firm specializing in Domestic and International Assurance & Accounting Services, Tax Services, Private Client Services, Business Valuation Services, Advisory Services, and Transaction Services. Founded in 1959 by Gary R. Gerson, our firm has deep roots in South Florida and has evolved from its boutique beginnings into a major player on the international stage. Our talented team of top-notch professionals is highly skilled in a variety of disciplines. Gerson Preston serves a wide range of industries, both domestically and internationally, including Real Estate & Construction, Professional Services, Technology, Aviation, Manufacturing & Distribution, Retail, Private Equity, Media & Entertainment, Healthcare, Employee Benefits, Communications, Transportation & Logistics, and Non-Profit Organizations. Brand-wise, I am proud that Gerson Preston stands today as the only accounting firm in Florida that is a member of both the International Association of Public Accountants (IAPA) and The International Accounting Group (TIAG). Our firm has offices in Miami, Boca Raton, and Denver, with a team of expert professionals who work tirelessly to help their clients achieve their financial goals.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The quality I believe is most important to my success is the ability to truly listen and understand others. By valuing people’s perspectives, building trust, and fostering collaboration, I can empower those around me and create an environment where everyone thrives. This approach, which applies to all people I interact with, whether it be clients and colleagues or friends and family, has been central to achieving meaningful results with a lasting impact.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gpkleg.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gerson-preston-robinson-&-co./
