As an entrepreneur—what you bring to a new business venture matters. Qualities like commitment, energy, ability to set goals and take innovative approaches. A willingness to take risks and look forward through challenges and setbacks. Leading by learning.
In 2002, Ian Hendry and Dan Warren brought all these traits, and a lot more, to the professional services firm that now bears their name. Not surprisingly, the small accounting firm flourished. But now, as they take a step back from the day-to-day operations of Hendry Warren LLP, it isn’t only what Ian and Dan brought to the firm that matters, it’s what they’re leaving behind.
And that’s a lot.
From its humble beginning in 2001 as a two partner public accounting firm, Hendry Warren LLP has grown into one of the most respected full service accounting firms in the National Capital Region. Today, with eight partners and a staff of over 60 professionals, the firm provides professional services to entrepreneurs, not for profit organizations, and corporations across a broad range of industries.
The firm’s core services include traditional accounting, assurance, tax planning, and compliance services. However, growth has brought in talent to allow the firm to offer its clients additional business valuation and advisory services as well as financial planning and retirement and estate planning. Small start-ups and budding entrepreneurs are as welcome as large, established corporations and not-for-profit organizations.
“Yes, we’re definitely a growing firm,” says partner Todd Hamilton. “We are double the size we were only 5 years ago. That rate of growth presents challenges but also creates opportunities for our highly skilled and talented staff moving into leadership positions. These are dynamic and committed young professionals, many of whom have grown up with the firm. They know our clients and our business and are constantly looking for ways to add value to meet the needs of our clients.”
Understandably, the eventual departure of the company’s founding partners has accelerated the transition process. But it did not initiate it. The process really picked up steam six years ago when the firm made a business decision to leave its cramped building on Gilmour Street for the 13,000 square foot space it occupies today. “It gave us the space, and the incentive, to spread our wings,” says Nancy Nicks, an assurance partner.
In addition to the move, Nancy mentions the importance of both internal and external collaboration.
“Collaboration enhances our ability to serve our clients. Reaching out to professionals who work with our clients gives us added insight, not only into our clients’ needs, but also into their thinking and into their plans.” This cross-pollination benefits everyone—Hendry Warren clients as well as those they work with.
Meanwhile, the Hendry Warren LLP team should probably put off buying a cake or signing a card for its founding partners, Ian and Dan. They’re not going anywhere just yet. Certainly, not while they still have so much to offer to the firm and their clients.
“They’ll be with us for at least two days a week for the foreseeable future,” says Todd. “They’ll be sharing their considerable expertise and mentoring the new leaders of the firm who are anxious to carry on the legacy of excellence over the past 18 years.”
In other words, they’ll be passing along those qualities that have made Hendry Warren the success it is today.
Partner and manager team left to right: Ian Hendry, Shona Scharf, Paul Rutherford, Robin Lawrence, Muhamad Adatia, Jennifer Dawe, Shaina Watt,
Jaime Wendland, Nancy Nicks, David Ienzi, Marie Fraser, Megan Bloskie, Dan Warren, Jacob Milosek, Todd Hamilton, Spencer Brooks, Blair Duffy,
Nicholas Raycroft, Brock McDonald, and Michelle Bouchard
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