John Rizzo: Managing Partner, RDG+Partners CPAs, PLLC
Years in current role: 18
What was the biggest challenge you faced over the past year?
In 2023, our primary challenge was guiding our clients through significant economic shifts, including rising interest rates, inflation, and limited access to financing and capital. Despite these hurdles our unique service model and completely unified approach to management, compliance, and advisory allowed us to support clients in reaching their goals. We remained steadfast in our mission to assist businesses in navigating challenges, gaining momentum, and ultimately achieving success. Our clients are unstoppable, and we are dedicated to supporting them every step of the way.
What are your top goals for 2024?
Our top goals for 2024 revolve around enhancing our service model at 1RDG. We are focused on perfecting our unique approach that integrates wealth management, payroll, benefits, accounting, tax, and strategic consulting all under ONE financial center roof. We’re dedicated to developing our team and cultivating future leaders, both within our industry and community. These objectives reflect our unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional service and driving both organizational and individual success.
What are the biggest changes you expect to see in your industry in the next 3-5 years?
We anticipate significant shifts in how firms support clients facing economic adversity. Business owners increasingly seek comprehensive solutions from a single provider to guide them through all stages of their business journey. We expect more local firms to reassess remote work policies in response to ongoing challenges in managing remote workforces.
What is one thing you wish you knew when you started your career?
Reflecting on our journey, one crucial lesson I wish I had understood earlier is the importance of starting with a clear vision of our long-term goals and beginning with the end in mind. Recognizing the impact, we can have on the lives of both clients and staff is essential. It’s easy to get caught up in daily operations, but dedicating time to align personal and professional goals has proven invaluable in making a meaningful difference.
What are your favorite things to do in the Rochester area?
In the free time I do have, I am typically involved in family activities. Coaching football and basketball, attending baseball games, playing a round or two of golf, attending a concert or spending time on the lake with friends and family. In Rochester, we’re fortunate to have access to a variety of activities, and we make it a point to seek out new experiences every year.