Steven (Steve) E. Ritchie, CPA, CFE became managing partner of Kernutt Stokes on June 1, 2017.
After months of deliberate planning, Steve was selected as the firm’s fifth managing partner in its 70+ year history. His predecessors include Bill Minihan, Don Kernutt, Peter Brandt, and the firm’s most recent managing partner, Warren W. Barnes.
Warren W. Barnes held the position of managing partner for 16 years and, under his leadership, the firm experienced significant growth and success. “I’m happy to see Steve take on this new role,” says Barnes. “I value his experience and energy. I know he will promote excellence by continuing our firm’s focus on superior service and strong client relationships. Stepping back as a managing partner allows me to spend more time with my clients and I am looking forward to that.” Barnes will remain a full-time partner at the firm.
Don Kernutt, Peter Brandt, Steve Ritchie, and Warren Barnes
A native of Oregon, Steve grew up in Portland and received his degree from the University of Oregon. He has been with the firm for more than twenty years, having been promoted to partner in 2007. Steve focuses on privately held, owner-managed, entrepreneurial businesses in the manufacturing, distribution, forest products, wholesale, retail, and insurance industries.
“When I started my career with Kernutt Stokes, I never imagined I would one day lead this amazing firm,” says Steve. “Kernutt Stokes proves year after year that we are a firm that thrives in adapting to new challenges – that’s how we’ve stayed so successful for more than seven decades. I look forward to leading this team of knowledgeable professionals, backed by the support of my fellow partners. We will continue to go beyond the normal expectations of CPAs to deliver excellence to every client we work with.”