Headshot of Ryan Cislo.

Occasionally, I’ll surf on Lake Michigan in the middle of winter. Midwest weather can be brutal (especially when it’s 20 degrees and icicles are growing off your wetsuit), but I think it builds character!

Ryan Cislo
Senior Manager, CPA, CFF, CFE

Experience

My practice is focused on forensic investigations, litigation support, and other dispute advisory matters. Most of the time, this involves identifying and calculating economic losses experienced by an individual or an organization from fraud, a contract dispute, or other contentious situations. I typically work alongside management, legal counsel, or claims specialists in these matters.

Since fraud affects all organizations, I’ve had the opportunity to work across a wide variety of industries and to work on several nuanced and complex issues, such as Chinese reverse mergers, delinquent tax certificates, and student loan collections.

Many clients and co-workers know me as someone who enjoys a good puzzle, both literally and figuratively. I’m eager to roll up my sleeves and dive into the details of issues that may appear difficult or overwhelming to others. The problem-solving nature inherent in forensic and litigation work is what drew me to it years ago and drives me today. Most people (even accountants) will admit that accounting isn’t a very exciting topic. However, in my forensic and litigation work, I enjoy seeing how a relatively dry topic has significant real-world applications. Each day, I feel that I’ve provided my clients with significant value — each engagement is unique and presents different challenges. It keeps me on my toes.

I’m a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Illinois CPA Society, and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. I have a B.S. in commerce (accounting and finance) from DePaul University.

In my free time, I like to get away from my computer, spend time with my family, and stay active. I enjoy fishing, camping, cooking, hiking, beach volleyball, and woodworking.