Prior to starting his own firm, Michael spent 20 years in various industries in the private sector, including transportation, automotive retail, waste removal, real estate, manufacturing and design & architecture, serving in upper managerial capacities including Controller, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer. Within these roles, Michael developed an extensive knowledge of business and its dealings not only from the financial and accounting perspectives, but also from the day to day operations as well. It was here that Michael developed a nack for achieving the effective administration and growth of company funds as well as implementing strategies and systems geared toward increasing profitability.
As CFO, Michael often often required to wear many hats which, in addition to managing corporate accounting and financial matters, afforded him the opportunity to oversee human resources and personnel matters including benefits, training and development as well as system conversions. As Controller, Michael was responsible for budget preparation and implementation, cash management, forecasting, and tax planning and return preparation.
Along with his extensive professional experience, Michael is also a business investor and has owned and managed such diverse entities as in the residential rental properties, coin-operated laundromats and dry cleaning industries. Michael also freelances as a portrait artist (www.tassiportraits.com) working on a project by project commission basis. These experiences have enhanced his knowledge of business dealings at every level ? from negotiating the acquisition, performing the due diligence, managing staff and the day-to-day operations, implementing and executing marketing plans, and negotiating the sale of the businesses. These experiences also have provided a unique and intimate view of business operations from an ownership perspective, which further enhances Michael?s business knowledge and expertise.
In addition to pursuing his professional career endeavors, Michael has devoted considerable time and effort in giving back to the community. He served successive years as Chairperson for American Cancer Society?s largest fund raising activity, ?Relay For Life? in his community as well being appointed to his village's Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals. Michael has also been involved as a volunteer member of Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago.
Michael graduated from
DePaul
University
in 1986 where he earned his bachelor degree in accounting. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Illinois CPA Society, the Sarbanes-Oxley Society and the Batavia Chamber of Commerce. Michael also is licensed in life & health insurance and is affiliated with MassMutual Life.
