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2018 Trusted Advisers Accountant: Chris Myers

Elliott, Robinson & Co. LLP

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Chris Myers has gone from intern to partner in his 13 years working at accounting firm Elliott, Robinson & Co. LLP.

His strategy of providing personalized attention to clients while anticipating their needs is paying off.

“It is the willingness to go the extra mile for the client that sets you apart,” says Myers, who was named partner Jan. 1. “Getting to know the client and (the) client’s business and taking the stance that I am an integral part of their business.

“Their success is tied to my success.”

As a partner, he specializes in nonprofit financial statement and governmental low-income housing audits. Most of his clients are small to midsize businesses and nonprofits.

Myers makes it a priority to stay up to date on the latest tax laws and financial reporting system requirements.

He also assists with the firm’s Accounting and Auditing Committee to monitor policies, procedures and quality control.

“Proactive planning,” he says, “can help tailor both operational and structural decisions that take advantage of tax savings or assist in producing accurate and reliable financial reporting.” 

Myers has grown his annual billings by 39 percent over the last three years. In 2017, he billed over $546,000 to 130 clients representing $50 million in assets.

Many of Myers’ clients have been consistent throughout his career, and he says more than half of all new clients are referrals from current clients and the other half come from attorneys, bankers or investment advisers.

“The continuity of relationship speaks to their view of me being a highly trusted adviser,” Myers says, adding, “People only refer their friends and family to people for whom they have confidence and respect.”

He belongs to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Missouri Society of Certified Public Accountants.

Outside of work, he lends his expertise to forward the mission of Boys & Girls Club of Springfield Inc. as a member of the nonprofit’s board since 2010 and currently serving as president.

Boys & Girls Club Executive Director Pat Gartland says Myers impressed him from the onset.

“He has helped to develop strong fiscal policies enabling the club to have a firm financial position and to continue to expand its services to the community,” Gartland says. “During Chris’ tenure on the board, we added a new club program, the Sertoma Unit, which included a capital campaign.”

Gartland says Myers is generous with his “time and treasure,” noting his leadership and team spirit have been critical to the club that serves 2,500 kids annually.

His years of service received recognition with a 2017 honor of the National Service to Youth Award from Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

Myers also serves as treasurer and past president for the Christian County Children’s Charities Sertoma Club and in 2013 was named Sertoman of the Year.

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