Meet the 2023 Power Leaders 250 – Part 2: Banking & Finance and … – The Business Journals

This year’s Power Leaders 250 reveals how executives from South Florida’s top public and private companies continue to drive growth in their organizations and the region. In a word, their efforts are timeless.
Some have careers stretching back decades; some are relative newcomers to the area. Collectively, they’ve weathered recessions and a pandemic, along with the boom times that have made the Sunshine State in general – and South Florida in particular – the darling for investment, relocation, business development and a thriving economy – even in sagging economic times.
This year’s Power Leaders 250 includes executives from across the region, including 84 who are new to the list this year. This special section explores both their organizations’ successes – what earned each executive the title of “power leader” – and asks what excites and engages them outside the office. Part professional, part personal, this glimpse into such details as their birthplace, education and personalities lend an insightful lens into what forms their style and drives their decisions.
With each iteration of Power Leaders, we introduce new questions designed to tease out fresh and fun details. Some have traveled the world. Several play musical instruments. Quite a few – especially those in real estate, construction and design – admit to enjoying Legos as a child. Many gave praise to their teams and families for their support.
With every iteration of the Power Leaders franchise, familiarity rises high. You see the names of people, the organizations and institutions they lead, and developments that dot our landscape – and make a connection with the impact these individuals have made on Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties.
Power Leaders 250 is just one resource that South Florida Business Journal readers have come to rely on. Between Power Leaders and our annual Book of Lists, our subscribers have access to the companies and executives shaping the South Florida economy and landscape.
As always, we don’t do this alone. I’d like to extend special thanks to Baptist Health and Zimmerman Advertising for sponsoring this year’s publication. And thank you, our readers, for your continued support now and all year long. We wish you continued success.
Melanie Dickinson
President and Publisher
South Florida Business Journal
Editor’s Note: We began our online Power Leaders 250 coverage with the Banking & Finance and Technology sectors. Check back in the coming days for leaders in additional industries.
EDUCATION
David A. Armstrong
President, St. Thomas University
Miami Gardens
Armstrong has led St. Thomas to four years of record undergraduate enrollment and a top U.S. News & World Report ranking for social mobility. The university’s endowment has grown to $41 million in 2022 from $30 million in 2018. Armstrong was named to the Florida Council of 100 last year.
Birthplace: Cleveland
Education: B.A., political science. Mercyhurst University; J.D., Cleveland-Marshall College of Law
Favorite digital content: Kevin Bille’s “Good Stuff” and “The Ben Shapiro Show”
Favorite toy growing up: Marvel the Mustang ride-on galloping horse
Title of my life story: “He Got Things Done”
Most unusual talent: I can quickly recognize a recording artist or band, even when listening to a song for the first time
I’m a secret fan of: “Downton Abbey” and women’s softball
Personal note: I’m a two-time disco dance contest champion.
www.stu.edu, [email protected], 305-474-6800
Julio Frenk
President, University of Miami
Coral Gables
U.S. News & World Report ranked UM among the best universities, best for veterans and best value, and its medical, nursing and marine science schools consistently earn top rankings and awards. Prior to joining UM in 2015, Frenk was dean of the School of Public Health at Harvard University and, before that, Mexico’s Federal Secretary of Health.
Birthplace: Mexico City
Education: M.D., National Autonomous University of Mexico; Master of Public Health., Ph.D., University of Michigan
Most unusual talent: I’m well-versed in all things opera.
Personal note: I’m a twin.
I could spend an afternoon at: L’Atelier Grigorian (now defunct), a top place to buy music in Toronto
Go-to icebreaker: Asking people about their genealogy and family history
Favorite local getaway spot: Frost Museum of Science
Favorite movie growing up: “Casablanca”
president.miami.edu, [email protected]
Gregory Adam Haile
President, Broward College
Fort Lauderdale
Under the leadership of Haile, its seventh president, Broward College was again named a Top 10 candidate for the 2023 Aspen Prize. It was also the first grantee in Florida and first community college in the nation to receive a $30 million Promise Neighborhoods award.
Birthplace: Queens, New York
Education: B.S., Arizona State University; J.D., Columbia University; summer fellow, Higher Education Management Institute, Vanderbilt University
Go-to icebreaker: What do you like to do when you’re not working?
Favorite local getaway spot: Times Square Pizza with my daughters
Favorite podcast: “Revisionist History” by Malcolm Gladwell
Favorite TV show growing up: “The Honeymooners”
Personal note: I enjoy beekeeping.
I knew I had made it when: I realized that easing the lives of others would be my greatest contribution to the world.
www.broward.edu, 954-201-7350
George L. Hanbury II
President and CEO, Nova Southeastern University
Davie
In his post since 2011, Hanbury leads an institution with 22,000 students and more than 210,000 alumni worldwide. NSU’s Vision 2020 plan exceeded its goals of raising $250 million through philanthropy and $300 million in external funding.
Birthplace: Virginia
Education: B.S., Virginia Tech; M.S., public administration, Old Dominion University; Ph.D., public administration, Florida Atlantic University
www.nova.edu, 800-541-6682
Kenneth A. Jessell
President, Florida International University
Miami
Jessell was officially installed as FIU’s sixth president in November after serving as interim president since January 2022. Prior to that, he was senior VP for finance and administration and CFO at FIU for 13 years.
Birthplace: Fort Lauderdale
Education: Bachelor’s degree, political science, MBA and Ph.D., finance, Florida State University
president.fiu.edu, [email protected], 305-348-2111
Arthur Keiser
Chancellor, Keiser University
Fort Lauderdale
Keiser University is reportedly Florida’s largest private, not-for-profit university. It was named the nation’s top school for social mobility in 2023 by U.S. News & World Report. Keiser chairs the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality, and is a member of the Southern Regional Education Board.
Birthplace: Philadelphia
Education: B.A., history, Tulane University; Ph.D., higher education administration, Union Institute and University
Car that matches my personality: 968 Lamborghini Miura P
Go-to icebreaker: Student choice in postsecondary education
Favorite podcast: CECU’s Podcast
Favorite TV show growing up: “Star Trek”
Most unusual talent: Cooking
Personal note: I have hitchhiked through South America.
www.keiseruniversity.edu, [email protected], 954-776-4476
Ava L. Parker
President, Palm Beach State College
West Palm Beach
Parker was named the first female president of Palm Beach State College in 2015. Prior to that, she served as the founding president of Florida Polytechnic University since 2012. In 2019, PBSC was named an Aspen Prize Top 150 U.S. Community College.
Birthplace: Milton, Florida
Education: B.S., journalism, and J.D., University of Florida
Car that matches my personality: A vintage convertible
Favorite podcast: “The Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast”
Traits that describe me: Tenacious, thoughtful, driven
I could spend an afternoon: At sea headed to Bimini
Favorite toy growing up: Easy-Bake Oven
Personal note: I love to dance.
www.palmbeachstate.edu, [email protected], 561-868-3501
Madeline Pumariega
President, Miami Dade College
Miami
Before being named the first female president at MDC in November 2020, she was president of its Wolfson Campus. She was also the first female and Hispanic chancellor of the Florida College System. A South Florida native, Pumariega was a student-athlete at Miami Dade College.
Birthplace: Hialeah
Education: Associate degree, Miami Dade College; bachelor’s degree, St. Thomas University; master’s degree, Florida Atlantic University; doctoral candidate, higher education, Barry University
www.mdc.edu, 305-237-8888
Debra A. Schwinn
President, Palm Beach Atlantic University
West Palm Beach
Schwinn joined the university in 2020. In fall 2022, PBAU welcomed the largest incoming class in the school’s history. A new campus master plan includes a six-story building for the Rinker School of Business, a health sciences complex, a performing arts center, and a student and alumni welcome center.
Birthplace: Mansfield, Ohio
Education: B.A., chemistry, The College of Wooster; M.D., Stanford University School of Medicine
Favorite local getaway spot: My backyard
I could spend an afternoon: Relaxing on a hammock, reading an interesting book
Favorite movie as a child: “Gone with the Wind”
Title of my life story: “Getting Out of the Way So God Can Shine Through”
Most unusual talent: Bluegrass violin (although trained classically)
Personal note: I never applied to university (only to conservatory)
www.pba.edu, [email protected], 561-803-2004
Stacy Volnick
Interim president, Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton
Volnick took over as the university’s interim president Jan. 1. Prior to that, she served as COO and was on FAU’s administrative staff since 1991. Volnick has 25 years of higher education experience. FAU is nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report and is known for transformative student outcomes.
Birthplace: Poughkeepsie, New York
Education: Bachelor’s degree, communications, M.Ed. and Ph.D., educational leadership, Florida Atlantic University
Car that matches my personality: BMW 440i convertible
Title of my life story: “Life and Leadership: Unscripted”
Most unusual talent: Painting
I’m a secret fan of: Reality TV. It’s a great mindless stress reliever.
Personal note: I’m a first-generation college graduate, which motivates me to serve our students.
www.fau.edu, [email protected], 561-297-6455
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Cesar L. Alvarez
Senior chairman, Greenberg Traurig
Miami
Alvarez has served as senior chairman of the region’s largest law firm since 2016. Prior to that, he was Greenberg Traurig’s CEO for 13 years and executive chairman for three years. During that time, the firm grew from 325 lawyers in eight offices to approximately 1,850 attorneys in 36 locations worldwide.
Birthplace: Havana
Education: A.A., Miami-Dade Community College; B.S., MBA, J.D., University of Florida
Traits that describe me: Fair, trustworthy, relentless
Favorite movie growing up: “The Godfather”
Title of my life story: “Who is That Guy?”
Most unusual talent: My ability and willingness to listen
I knew I had made it when: The clubs and organizations that had excluded me started to recruit me for membership. But I never accepted.
www.gtlaw.com, 305-579-0500
David W. Appel
Florida market leader, Cherry Bekaert LLP
Coral Gables
Appel provides tax consulting services to individuals, privately held corporations and portfolio companies owned by private equity groups. The firm, one of the region’s largest, was nominated as one of America’s Best Tax and Accounting Firms by Forbes for 2023.
Birthplace: Key West
Education: B.S., Florida State University
Car that matches my personality: Jeep Wrangler
Favorite podcast: “The Megyn Kelly Show”
I could spend an afternoon: At The Biltmore playing golf
Favorite movie growing up: “It’s a Wonderful Life”
Title of my life story: “I Had the Time of My Life”
I’m a secret fan of: “The Crown”
www.cbh.com, [email protected], 786-693-6433
Antonio “Tony” Argiz
South Florida managing partner, BDO USA LLP
Miami
Argiz was named to his current post following the 2021 merger of BDO with MBAF. Prior to that, he had led the Miami-based firm as CEO and chairman since 1997. It became a leading regional accounting firm by number of CPAs and billings, ultimately reaching the $150 million revenue mark.
Birthplace: Havana
Education: B.B.A., graduate studies in auditing and taxation, Florida International University
Car that matches my personality: 1962 Ford Fairlane 500 – proud, hungry and determined
Go-to icebreaker: Baseball. My favorite team was the Havana Sugar Kings.
Favorite local getaway spot: Adrienne Arsht Center
Favorite podcast: “The Daily” by The New York Times
I could spend an afternoon: At my grandson’s soccer game
Favorite TV show growing up: “The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin”
Title of my life story: “Consistency”
I’m a secret fan of: Cuban activist Oswaldo Payá
www.bdo.com, 305-373-5500
Michael Balter
Regional managing partner, Marcum LLP
Fort Lauderdale
Balter leads Marcum’s regional operations, strategy and client growth, including oversight of more than 290 professionals. The nationally ranked accounting and advisory firm is among South Florida’s largest.
Birthplace:Manhattan, New York
Education:B.S., accounting, University of Florida; MBA, Florida Atlantic University
Car that matches my personality: Tesla (cutting edge)
Go-to icebreaker: Inquiring about the person’s passion
Favorite podcast: “Revisionist History” by Malcolm Gladwell
I could spend an afternoon: At any sporting event
Favorite TV show growing up: “The Six Million Dollar Man”
Personal note: I have been to every U.S. state.
www.marcumllp.com, [email protected]
Richard A. Berkowitz
Founding and executive chairman, Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs; chairman, Provenance Wealth Advisors
Aventura
The firm Berkowitz founded over 45 years ago is today a Top 100 firm nationally and one of South Florida’s largest. It serves national and international clients in the real estate, not-for-profit and health care sectors, as well as trusts and partnerships, and closely held businesses.
Birthplace: Newton, Massachusetts
Education: B.S., organizational psychology and accounting, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill; J.D., University of Miami
Go-to icebreaker: Do you want to dribble a basketball with me to fight cancer on March 12?
Favorite local getaway spot: Fisher Island
I could spend an afternoon: Skiing at Mt. Snow or cycling in New England
Favorite toy growing up: Flexible Flyer
Most unusual talent: I’m a farmer.
I’m a secret fan of: Business management speaker and author David Maister
www.bpbcpa.com
Javi Borges
Office managing partner, EY
Miami
Borges leads over 450 professionals across EY service lines of assurance, consulting, strategy and transactions, and tax services.
Education: Bachelor’s degree, International Affairs, Florida State University
Car that matches my personality: 2006 Toyota 4 Runner Sport (old car of mine)
I could spend an afternoon at: Doak Campbell Stadium, tailgating before a Florida State game
Title of my life story: “Well, How Did I Get Here?” (borrowed from Talking Heads)
I’m a secret fan of: ABBA and electronic music
Personal note: I was at Woodstock ‘99
I knew I had made it when: I crossed Seventh Avenue on March 14, 1999, to start my career at EY in New York City
www.ey.com, [email protected], 305-984-1841
Nicholas “Nick” Christin
Managing partner, Wicker Smith
Miami
Christin has practiced law in Florida for over 40 years. Since joining the firm in 1997, it has grown from three to 16 offices, and currently has over 250 attorneys. Christin has taught income taxation of trusts and estates at the University of Miami for over 30 years.
Birthplace: Warren, Ohio
Education: B.B.A, M.S., J.D., LL.M., estate planning, University of Miami
Car that matches my personality: 2022 Corvette
I could spend an afternoon: Playing poker
Favorite TV show growing up: “Bonanza”
Title of my life story: “I Love to Drive Fast”
Most unusual talent: Making pasta from scratch
Personal note: I attend cheer competitions with my grandchildren.
www.wickersmith.com, [email protected], 305-461-8718
Richard P. Cole
Managing partner, Cole, Scott & Kissane, P.A.
Miami
Cole oversees management and supervision of the firm, which is one of the region’s largest. The Martindale-Hubbell AV-rated preeminent attorney previously served as president of the Dade County Bar Association and the American Board of Trial Advocates, Miami, and as a delegate to the U.S. 11th Circuit Conference.
Birthplace: Miami
Education: B.S.B.A., J.D., University of Florida
Car that matches my personality: Lexus – steady, comfortable, safe
Go-to icebreaker: Sports
Favorite local spot: Key Biscayne
I could spend an afternoon at: The British Museum
I’m a secret fan of: Janis Joplin
Personal note: I was a competitive tennis player.
I knew I had made it when: I had no debt.
www.csklegal.com, [email protected], 305-350-5305
Timothy R. Devlin
Managing partner, Daszkal Bolton LLP
Boca Raton
Devlin leads one of the region’s largest independent public accounting firms. It provides accounting and consulting services to private and public, domestic and international companies, high-net-worth individuals and families, and not-for-profit organizations.
Birthplace: Douglaston, New York
Education: B.S., accounting, University of Florida
Go-to icebreaker: What business are you in?
Favorite local getaway spot: Houston’s on the Pompano Beach waterfront
Favorite podcast: “Milk Street Radio”
Traits that describe me: Vonsistent, entrepreneurial, trustworthy
I could spend an afternoon: Riding my bike down A1A, or at a Miami Marlins or Miami Dolphins game
Title of my life story: “Who Said Being a CPA Isn’t Interesting?”
www.dbllp.com, [email protected], 561-953-1520
Christopher Duke
Office managing partner, Akerman LLP
West Palm Beach and Boca Raton
Duke practices employment law and complex commercial litigation at one of the region’s largest firms. He represents clients in federal and state courts, as well as in various arbitration forums and before federal, state and local administrative bodies.
Birthplace: New Orleans
Education: B.A., Davidson College; J.D., University of Florida
Favorite local getaway spot: Anywhere in the Keys
Favorite podcast: “American History Tellers”
I could spend an afternoon: At the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary in Jupiter
Title of my life story: “It’s a Wonderful Life”
I’m a secret fan of: All things Walt Disney World
Personal note: In my former life, I was a scuba instructor and dive guide.
www.akerman.com, [email protected], 561-653-5000
Michael J. Fichtel
CEO and principal partner, Kelley Kronenberg
Fort Lauderdale
Fichtel heads a firm with more than 400 employees in 12 locations throughout the U.S. It is slated to complete construction this year on a second building at its Fort Lauderdale headquarters. The firm has been recognized by the Inc. 5000 and as a Top 5 Firm for Diversity.
Birthplace: Monroe, New York
Education: B.A., University of Florida; J.D., Nova Southeastern University
Car that matches my personality: Ferrari
Go-to icebreaker: Business
I could spend an afternoon: In the Miami Design District (I enjoy cafés and shopping.)
Most unusual talent: Making light of difficult situations
I’m a secret fan of: The History and Discovery channels
Personal note: I don’t enjoy being the center of attention.
www.kelleykronenberg.com, [email protected], 954-370-9970
Alan Garcia
Office managing partner, EY
Boca Raton
Garcia leads the Boca Raton office, where he is responsible for developing and engaging the firm’s people, creating high-performing teams, driving market leadership across service lines and enhancing the EY brand. He also is the firm’s U.S.-Central region technology media and telecommunications assurance market segment leader.
Birthplace: Miami
Education: B.B.A. and master’s degrees, accounting, University of Miami
Go-to icebreaker: Florida Panthers
Favorite local getaway spot: Naples
I could spend an afternoon: At a winery
Favorite movie growing up: “Fletch”
Most unusual talent: Playing chess
I knew I had made it when: I was promoted to partner.
www.ey.com
Giuseppe Garcia-Salamone
Co-founder, Tentho
Miami
Garcia-Salamone heads Tentho, the region’s second-fastest growing company with revenue under $25 million, with 349% growth over two years.
Birthplace: Hackensack, New Jersey
Education: B.A., international studies, University of South Florida; M.S., accounting, Southern New Hampshire University
Car that matches my personality: Volvo XC90
Go-to icebreaker: Favorite ice cream
Title of my life story: “A Road Worth Traveling”
Most unusual talent: Ability to hear and mimic accents
I’m a secret fan of: MMA fighting
I knew I had made it when: I looked around and realized I had all the things I said I wanted years ago.
www.tentho.com
Matt Gorson
Senior chairman, Greenberg Traurig
Miami
Gorson joined the firm in 1973 as its 14th lawyer. He was instrumental in developing its national real estate practice and has served as its chair. Today, the multinational firm has over 1,800 attorneys.
Birthplace: Philadelphia
Education: B.A., Tulane University; J.D., University of Chicago Law School
Car that matches my personality: Mercedes-Benz EQS
Favorite local getaway spot: Kennedy Park
I could spend an afternoon: Walking by the bay and listening to music
Favorite TV show growing up: “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson”
I’m a secret fan of: Shakira
I knew I had made it when: I was made a shareholder at Greenberg Traurig.
www.gtlaw.com, 305-579-0500
Barry Gould
Partner in charge, Florida, EisnerAmper
Miami
Under Gould’s leadership, the firm has more than doubled the number of colleagues and expanded to West Palm Beach, Stuart and Fort Myers.
Birthplace: New Jersey
Education: B.S., accounting, master’s degree, taxation, University of Florida
Car that matches my personality: Convertible
Favorite local getaway spot: Any golf course
Favorite podcasts: “SmartLess” and “How I Built This”
I could spend an afternoon at: One of my kids’ lacrosse games
Personal note: I once took a half-court shot at a Miami Heat game at halftime. I hit the rim.
I knew I made it when: I made partner at my firm.
www.eisneramper.com, [email protected], 305-371-6200
Gerald Greenspoon
Co-managing director, Greenspoon Marder LLP
Fort Lauderdale
Greensppon co-founded the firm in 1981 with partner Michael Marder. Today, he oversees a firm with over 240 attorneys in 25 offices throughout the U.S. Practice areas include real estate development, resort and timeshare development, condominium conversions, finance and transactions.
Birthplace: Montreal
Education: Bachelor of Commerce, Sir George Williams University; License of Laws, University of Ottawa, Canada; J.D., Nova Southeastern University
Car that matches my personality: Range Rover
I could spend an afternoon: At my golf club
favorite tv show growing up: “Gilligan’s Island”
I’m a secret fan of: Rock stars
Personal note: I love to play music and perform.
I knew I had made it when: I first had grandkids.
www.gmlaw.com, [email protected], 954-491-1120
Jerry D. Hamilton
Organization managing partner, Hamilton, Miller & Birthisel LLP
Miami
Hamilton leads a trial firm that covers multiple practice areas. It is one of the country’s largest black-owned law firms, and holds both national and metro rankings in the 2023 Best Law Firms report by U.S. News & World Report.
Birthplace: Kingston, Jamaica
Education: B.A., University of Miami; J.D., University of South Florida
Car that matches my personality: Souped-up Mini Cooper
Favorite podcast: “TED Talks Daily”
I could spend an afternoon: At the beach or a poker table
Favorite movie growing up: Anything James Bond
Title of my life story: “Gratitude: How Being Grateful is One of Life’s Best-Kept Secrets”
I knew I had made it when: I graduated from law school. I knew I was unstoppable.
www.hamiltonmillerlaw.com, [email protected], 954-379-3686
Blain L. Heckaman
CEO, Kaufman Rossin
Miami
Heckaman has led the firm as CEO since 2015, and was managing principal for three years prior. Now in its 61st year, Kaufman Rossin is among the Top 100 CPA and advisory firms in the U.S., and the largest independent accounting firm in Florida.
Birthplace: Elkhart, Indiana
Education: B.S., accounting, Ball State University
Car that matches my personality: BMW X5 – versatile, performs and comfortable
Favorite local getaway spot: Islamorada
I could spend an afternoon: Snorkeling and spearfishing
I’m a secret fan of. ; Post Malone
Personal note: I played college basketball.
I knew I had made it when: I met and married my wife, Jill.
www.kaufmanrossin.com, 305-858-5600
Armando Hernandez
CEO, H&CO LLP
Miami
Founded in 1992, H&CO LLP provides tax, technology and professional services to global businesses, families and entrepreneurs. Forbes has recognized it as one of America’s top recommended tax and accounting firms.
Birthplace: Cuba
Education: Bachelor’s and master’s degrees in taxation, Florida International University; MBA, Duke University
www.hcoadvisors.com, [email protected], 305-444-8800
Carlos Hernandez
Miami office managing partner, board member, RSM
Miami
Hernandez has almost 25 years of public accounting and financial management experience focused in the health care industry. The firm was named to Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For and Great Places to Work in 2022, and among People magazine’s People Companies that Care in 2021.
Birthplace: Miami
Education: Bachelor’s degree, accountancy, MacMurray College
Car that matches my personality: Audi Q5
Go-to icebreaker: The best way to travel through Walt Disney World and Las Vegas
Favorite local getaway spot: Galiano Cigar Room
Favorite podcast: “The Joe Rogan Experience”
I could spend an afternoon: At Hard Rock Stadium, watching the Dolphins or Hurricanes
Most unusual talent: Waking up every day at 4:30 a.m. without an alarm clock
www.rsmus.com, [email protected]
Timothy Iszler
Office managing partner, Crowe LLP
Miami
Iszler has almost two decades’ experience and specializes in auditing and advising companies in manufacturing and distribution, construction and real estate. His firm is among the region’s largest by both CPAs and South Florida gross billings.
Birthplace: Jamestown, North Dakota
Education: B.B.A., finance, University of Miami
www.crowe.com, [email protected]
Tansy Jefferies
Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach office leader, national transfer pricing leader, RSM
Fort Lauderdale
Jefferies is an international tax principal and national transfer pricing leader for RSM, which serves the tax, audit and consulting provider to middle market companies.
Birthplace: Reading, U.K.
Education: Bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Japanese and social and political studies, Cambridge University
Car that best matches my personality: Land Rover (the old one) – gets the job done
Favorite local getaway spot: Dry Tortugas
Favorite podcast: “The Dropout: The Story of Elizabeth Holmes and Theranos”
Title of my life story: “Roads Less Traveled”
Most unusual talent: Dressage. I take lessons every weekend and occasionally compete.
Personal note: I’ve visited all the continents.
www.rsmus.com, [email protected], 954-356-5772
Helen Braswell Kakouris
Co-founder, Tentho
Miami
Tentho works with companies in over 35 states nationwide. It was recognized as the second-fastest growing company in South Florida in 2022, with a two-year growth rate of 349%.
Birthplace: Torrance (Rancho Palos Verdes), California
Education: B.S., accounting, M.Accy., University of Denver
Car that matches my personality: Lincoln Aviator
Favorite podcast: “Super Women” with Rebecca Minkoff
Favorite movie growing up: “The Sound of Music”
Title of my life story: “Adapt”
I’m a secret fan of: Warm towels fresh out of the dryer
Personal note: I sailed from California to Hawaii (18-day crossing, age 14) on a 97-foot 1812 warship replica with only 12 people (none family).
www.tentho.com, [email protected], 786-292-9519
Neisen Kasdin
Miami office managing partner, Akerman LLP
Miami
Kasdin heads the Miami office of the region’s top law firm. A land use and development attorney, his efforts helped revitalize Miami Beach and deliver such projects as Brickell City Centre, the Miami Design District, the Faena District and the Magic City Innovation District.
Birthplace: Miami Beach
Education: B.A., Northwestern University, J.D., University of Florida
Car that best matches my personality: BMW X5
Go-to icebreaker: Our granddaughters
I could spend an afternoon at: Indian Creek Country Club
Most unusual talent: Knowledge of history
I’m a secret fan of: Japan
I knew I had made it: The year I led the representation for the Design District and Brickell City Centre Special Area Plans
www.akerman.com, [email protected], 305-374-5600
Steven F. Klein
Managing partner, Gerson Preston Klein Lips Eisenberg Gelber
Miami and Boca Raton
The firm was founded over 60 years ago and today is one of the region’s largest. Klein leads partners who share responsibility for governance, finances, service delivery, recruitment and growth strategy.
Birthplace: New York City
Education: B.A., accounting, New York University
Car that matches my personality: 1972 Camaro Z28 – my first car
Go-to icebreaker: Anything related to wine, food and golf; definitely not politics
Favorite local getaway spot: Home
Favorite podcast: “All-In Podcast”
Traits that describe me: Passionate, loyal, analytical. A little sarcastic, too.
I knew I had made it when: Those I work with or oversee began to confide in me.
www.gpkleg.com, [email protected], 305-351-7900
Marc List
Senior managing director, CBIZ MHM
Boca Raton
List leads the South Florida business unit of the national Top 10 accounting and professional services provider. A published author and expert witness in estate tax planning, he joined CBIZ in 1995 after working with several national accounting firms.
Birthplace: Flushing, New York
Education: B.B.A., Hofstra University; J.D., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Go-to icebreaker: Travel
Favorite local getaway spot: Playa Largo Resort
I could spend an afternoon: On the tennis court
Favorite movie growing up: “Star Wars”
Personal note: I started college as pre-med, but hated the sight of blood.
I knew I had made it when: I got my first window office.
www.cbiz.com, [email protected], 561-922-3002
Raimundo Lopez-Lima Levi
Managing partner, AbitOs
Coral Gables
With over 25 years’ accounting experience, Levi has served as an auditor and tax advisor to both public and private companies in the U.S. with both domestic and overseas operations. The firm is a member of CPAmerica, an association of independent certified public accounting firms, and part of Crowe Global, the eighth-largest global accounting network.
Birthplace: Havana
Education: B.S., accounting, Florida International University; master’s degree, accounting, St. Thomas University
Car that matches my personality: 1967 Aston Martin
Favorite local getaway spot: Key Biscayne
Favorite podcasters: Ray Dalio and Dr. Tony Evans
Title of my life story: “A Survivor”
Most unusual talent: Opening anything with my teeth
I’m a secret fan of: Musicals
www.abitos.com, 305-774-2945
Mark Margulies
Office managing partner, South Florida, Grant Thornton LLP
Fort Lauderdale
Margulies oversees Grant Thornton’s two offices in South Florida and its accounting, consulting and tax services. The firm was among the region’s largest by CPAs.
Birthplace: Davenport, Iowa
Education: Bachelor’s degree, accounting, master’s degree, taxation, University of Miami
www.gt.com, [email protected]
Jennifer Miller
Founding partner, Fort Lauderdale, and managing partner, U.S. Virgin Islands, Hamilton, Miller & Birthisel LLP
Fort Lauderdale
Miller co-founded the minority certified law firm that consistently ranks among the 10 most diverse law firms in South Florida. For two decades, her practice has focused on civil litigation, and her transactional work includes maritime, cruise sector and marine industry clients.
Birthplace: Fairbanks, Alaska (dad was stationed there while in the Air Force)
Education: B.S., criminology, J.D., University of Florida
Go-to icebreaker: Funny stories about my kids and dog.
Favorite local getaway spot: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa
Favorite podcast: “Wandering Earl”
Title of my life story: “Breaking Ceilings”
Most unusual talent: I learned to play five instruments.
I’m a secret fan of: The Kardashians
www.hamiltonmillerlaw.com, [email protected], 305-379-3686
Leslie Miller Tomczak
Office managing partner, Akerman LLP
Fort Lauderdale
Miller Tomczak is office managing partner for one of South Florida’s largest law firms. She is board-certified by the Florida Bar in construction law, and her practice focuses primarily on the representation of developers, owners, landlords, contractors, subcontractors, architects and other design professionals.
Birthplace: Colorado
Education: B.A., Florida Atlantic University; J.D., University of Florida
Car that matches my personality: Fire truck (always putting out fires)
Favorite podcasts: “Literally!” (Rob Lowe) and “SmartLess” (Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes)
Favorite movies growing up: Any movies starring Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler
Title of my life story: “Somehow, I Manage” 
Most unusual talent: Can fall asleep at a moment’s notice
I’m a secret fan of: Veterinarian and true-crime shows
www.akerman.com, [email protected], 954-759-8926
Stephen Nesi
South Florida office managing partner, PwC
Fort Lauderdale
Nesi leads some 700 regional PwC professionals and works in its financial services practice. Organizations he serves with include the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, Salvation Army, 100 Black Men of South Florida and the National Association of Black Accountants.
Birthplace: Philadelphia
Education: B.S., accounting and finance, master’s, corporate accounting, Florida State University
Go-to icebreaker: Vacation
Favorite local getaway spot: Fort Lauderdale Beach
I could spend an afternoon: At a golf course looking for my sliced golf balls.
Favorite TV show growing up: “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”
Title of my life story: “Who Needs a Helping Hand?
I’m a secret fan of: Musicals. My favorite is “Dreamgirls.”
www.pwc.com/us, 305-375-7400
Luis A. Perez
Office managing partner; chair, Latin America and Caribbean practice, Akerman LLP
Miami
Perez leads the Miami office of one of the region’s largest law firms. He focuses his practice on dispute resolution, and handles commercial litigation and arbitration across the U.S. and Latin America for clients in various sectors.
Birthplace: Havana
EducationL B.B.A., finance, J.D., Loyola University
Car that matches my personality: Mercedes-Benz, which I drive
Favorite local getaway spot: My backyard, in the pool with my daughters and grandkids
Favorite TV show growing up: “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”
Most unusual talent: I never forget a face.
I’m a secret fan of: James Bond (Sean Connery, of course)
Personal note: I am an avid reader and speak various languages.
www.akerman.com, [email protected], 305-374-5600
H. William “Bill” Perry
CEO and managing shareholder, Gunster
West Palm Beach
Under Perry’s leadership, the firm has added scores of attorneys in the past two years and today has 240 attorneys and consultants. Founded in 1925, it is currently ranked on the National Law Journal’s list of the 500 largest law firms, and is among Law360’s Top 100 Diverse Law Firms.
Birthplace: Manchester, Connecticut
Education: B.A., University of Pennsylvania; J.D., University of Florida; studied at King’s College, London
Car that matches my personality: Ford Explorer
Go-to icebreaker: Anything to do with flying or fishing
Favorite local getaway spot: The Breakers Palm Beach
Favorite podcast: “Hope, Through History” with Jon Meacham
I could spend an afternoon at: Jonathan Dickinson State Park
I’m a secret fan of: Bruce Springsteen
www.gunster.com, 561-655-1980
Lisa J. Roney
Office managing partner, Crowe LLP
Fort Lauderdale
A partner in the firm’s audit and assurance group, Roney specializes in working with financial services organizations. She has over 20 years’ experience providing audit services in the areas of SEC reporting, Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 404 compliance, interim financial statement reviews, merger and acquisition consulting, and internal control attestation.
Education: B.S.B.A., accounting, Indiana University, Bloomington
www.crowe.com, 954-202-2927
Gary Rosen
CEO and managing shareholder, Becker
Fort Lauderdale
Rosen leads the firm that celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Becker recently endowed the University of Miami’s Alan S. Becker and Gary A. Poliakoff Leaders in Law Speaker Series. Rosen was appointed to his post in 2012.
Birthplace: Worcester, Massachusetts
Education: B.A., Brandeis University; J.D., Catholic University
Car that matches my personality: Mustang Electric SUV – a real American, pragmatic, and looks to the future
Go-to icebreaker: Anything about the other person
Favorite local getaway spot: The beach in Delray Beach
Traits that describe me: Loyal, family-oriented, practical
Favorite TV show growing up: “Get Smart”
I’m a secret fan of: Steely Dan
www.beckerlawyers.com, [email protected], 954-985-4133
Joseph L. Saka
CEO, Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs
Miami
Saka leads a firm of more than 300 individuals working from five offices in Florida and New York. The firm has been named to Accounting Today’s Top 100 Firms for 28 years and Inside Public Accounting’s Best of the Best for 22 years.
Birthplace: Miami Beach
Education: Bachelor’s and master’s degrees, accounting, Florida International University
Go-to icebreaker: Do you have kids?
Favorite local getaway spot: A 2-mile radius from my house. It’s where I take all my important phone calls.
I could spend an afternoon: In isolation with just my kids and wife
Title of my life story: “He Made An Impact”
Most unusual talent: Focusing amid chaos
I’m a secret fan of: Change
www.bpbcpa.com, 305-379-7000
Daniel Santaniello
Managing partner, Luks Santaniello Petrillo Cohen & Peterfriend
Boca Raton
The firm Santaniello co-founded in 1995 now employs more than 125 attorneys in 12 Florida offices. With three decades of trial experience in insurance defense litigation, he is certified as an expert in civil trial by the Florida Bar and is rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell. He previously served as the president of the Florida Defense Lawyers Association
Education: B.S., criminal justice, Northeastern University; J.D., Nova Southeastern University
www.insurancedefense.net, 561-226-2525
Steven Sonberg
Managing partner, Holland & Knight LLP
Miami
Since being named managing partner in 2008, Sonberg has seen the firm grow to some 1,400 attorneys in 27 offices worldwide. He was previously a partner since 1992. The firm recently announced a deal to acquire Waller Lansden Dortch & Davis LLP, the largest law firm in Nashville, Tennessee.
Birthplace: New York City
Education: B.S., accounting, LL.M, New York University, J.D., University of Miami School of Law
www.hklaw.com, [email protected], 305-789-7794
Jeffrey Taraboulos
Managing partner,Kabat, Schertzer, De La Torre, Taraboulos & Co.
Miami
Taraboulos leads an accounting firm with about 150 professionals, making it one of South Florida’s largest. It was recognized in 2022 on Inside Public Accounting’s annual ranking of the Top 500 accounting firms, and by Forbes as one of America’s best tax and accounting firms.
Birthplace: Miami
Education: Bachelor’s and master’s degrees, accounting, Florida International University
Car that matches my personality: Tesla Model S Plaid
Go-to icebreaker: What do you do for a living?
Favorite podcast: “The Big O Show”
I could spend an afternoon: Riding my bike in Shark Valley.
I’m a secret fan of: Reality TV shows
Personal note: I appeared in two episodes of CMT reality TV show “Racing Wives.”
I knew I had made it when: I was made managing partner.
www.ksdtcpa.com, [email protected], 305-670-3370
Steven A. Templeton
Founding and managing partner, Templeton & Co. LLP
Fort Lauderdale
Templeton earned his CPA designation in 1976 and today his specialties include audit, real estate and construction, tax and general accounting. The firm has been named a Business of the Year finalist and a software technology award winner.
Birthplace: Jacksonville
Education: B.S., accounting, Florida State University
Car that matches my personality: A black SUV. I currently have a Mercedes-Benz.
Favorite local getaway spot: The Breakers Palm Beach
Favorite TV show growing up: Saturday baseball game of the week (usually the Yankees)
Title of my life story: “My Relationship With Christ”
Personal note: I play the drums for fun and stress relief.
I knew I had made it when: I no longer had to mow my own lawn.
www.templetonco.com, [email protected], 954-333-0001
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