Robert E. Grote, CPA

Robert E. Grote, CPA, Partner, Manufacturing & Distribution Niche Practice Leader

"A client had no viable strategy for an exit plan, and their succession plan would have forced them to go bankrupt. We helped the client create a comprehensive plan, including an S-Corp employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), along with deferred compensation arrangements. This plan pleased both the client and their credit grantors. We created an environment where 40% of their overhead (taxes) was eliminated and laid out a successful plan for the future of the company."

Robert E. Grote is a partner at Grassi & Co. He specializes in public accounting, tax planning and management consulting. He provides expert guidance to clients in internal control assessment, fraud prevention and investigation, cash flow and budget planning and projection, acquisition or lending due diligence, and employee benefit plan development. Since beginning his career in 1993, he has served clients in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, distribution, construction, real estate, professional service, and not-for-profit.

Rob has led many educational seminars and written articles on employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) and corporate succession planning. Rob takes a proactive, yet patient and team-focused approach with clients as he develops strategies and applications to help them succeed. In addition to providing excellent advice and service to clients, Rob holds a special place in the hearts and minds of the Grassi & Co. staff as the architect of the firm's Mentor-Protégé Program. The program pairs staff members with designated mentors, who help them develop technical and interpersonal skills.

Rob is active in numerous industry trade organizations, such as the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), where he serves as President. In addition, he is a member of the New York State Society of CPAs (NYSSCPA) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).  Always looking to give back to the community, Rob serves on the Board of the Nassau County Chapter of the American Red Cross and is Chairman of the organization's audit committee. Rob was named to the Long Island Business News 40 Under 40 Class of 2008, recognizing his success and accomplishments. Rob holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from St. John's University, where he graduated magna cum laude.