Mar 14 March Sax Spotlight: Michael Doyle and Tod Christianson
In this month’s Sax Spotlight, we highlight the work ethic and dedication of Partner, Tod Christianson, and A&A Associate, Michael Doyle.
Michael Doyle,CPA
This month, we are proud to shine our Sax Spotlight on Accounting & Auditing Associate, Michael Doyle. Throughout his career so far, Michael has obtained an extensive amount of accounting knowledge and wants to continue his education to best serve his clients and to be a go-to person for the firm.
Read on to learn more about Michael in our Q&A:
What college did you attend? What was your major?
I attended Rutgers University in New Brunswick where I received my Bachelor’s in Economics. I then attended William Paterson University and received my Bachelor’s in Accounting.
Do you have any continued education or credentials?
I recently earned my CPA license and plan on attending Graduate School within the next few years.
When did you start working at Sax?
I was an intern for Sax in early 2018 and began my full-time position in November that same year.
What is your current title?
I am currently an Accounting & Auditing Associate.
What are your day-to-day responsibilities at Sax? What do you specialize in?
I have not yet chosen an industry to specialize in, but the majority of my work has been for the Manufacturing & Distribution niche. My day-to-day responsibilities include working through our client files, and performing tests on revenue, expenses and liabilities.
What are a few things you have learned at Sax?
I have gained an extensive amount of accounting knowledge since I began working at Sax, as well as the importance of teamwork. As I am just starting out in my career, I have found Sax to be a great place to learn and enhance skills, whether it be from the internal trainings the firm provides, or simply working in an environment where everyone is hands-on with helping each other to grow and excel.
Explain some of your biggest achievements while working at Sax.
Two of my biggest achievements include passing all four parts of the CPA exam, as well as receiving my full-time position at Sax.
Do you have a vision or goal for your career?
I want to move through the ranks of Sax. I also want to go to Graduate School so that I can serve our clients to the best of my ability.
What volunteer work and/or charities do you participate in?
I recently participated in the Paterson Habitat for Humanity project that Sax facilitated, and it was a very rewarding experience. I look forward to participating again next year.
Are there any other interesting facts about you outside of your work life?
I really enjoy traveling and playing basketball in my free time. I also love animals and have 3 dogs. In the winter, I enjoy snowboarding.
Tod Christianson, CPA
This month, we are proud to shine our Sax Spotlight on Partner, Tod Christianson. Tod became a part of the Sax team when the firm merged with The Hunter Group in 2017. He is a valuable Partner in the Accounting & Auditing Department and specializes in Employee Benefit Plan Audits. His main goal is to best serve his clients by helping them address any needs or challenges they may be facing.
Read on to learn more about Tod in our Q&A:
What college did you attend? What was your major?
I attended Penn State University and majored in Accounting.
Do you have any credentials?
After college, I obtained my CPA license.
When did you start working at Sax?
I began my career at Sax about two and a half years ago when the firm merged with The Hunter Group, where I began working at in January of 1992.
What is your current title?
I am a Partner in the firm’s Accounting & Auditing Department.
What are your day to day responsibilities at Sax? What do you specialize in?
Overall, I try to provide the best service to address my clients’ needs, which can include outsourced CFO work to help them successfully run their business. I mainly specialize in employee benefit plan audits.
What are a few things you have learned at Sax?
With policies and laws frequently changing, Sax facilitates an environment of consistent training. Because of that, I am always learning something new which has prepared me to be fully equipped at all times to guide my clients to success.
Explain your biggest achievement in your career.
My biggest achievement was being promoted to a Partner of the firm.
Explain some of your biggest achievements in life.
My biggest achievements in life are marrying my wife and raising our children. I also take a lot of pride in being an active member of my community. I tend to gravitate towards community service and being able to help others whenever I am given the chance.
Do you have a vision or goal for your career?
I strive for continual growth and to never be complacent in where I am. I always stay open minded and ready to try new things so I remain innovative for my clients.
Do you frequently speak at events to demonstrate expertise?
I actively speak at The Fair Lawn Chamber of Commerce events.
What volunteer work and/or charities do you participate in?
I am a coach in my local community for the baseball, flag football, and street hockey teams. I am also involved in The Fair Lawn Chamber of Commerce and The Fair Lawn Economic Development Corporation.
Are there any other interesting facts about you outside of your work life?
I am an avid mountain biker and love to go fishing. My wife is also a triathlete and competes in Iron Man competitions. I have 3 sons and get so much joy out of coaching their sports teams.
