Before pursuing a career in accounting, I earned a music performance degree and was an accomplished trombone player. I loved the way it challenged me to hold myself to high standards while also being an outlet for creativity and theoretical analysis.”
Michael Sommerfeld
Principal, CPA
Experience
As a firm principal, I serve as a strategic advisor and technical specialist for tax matters. I provide tax compliance, planning, and consulting services for domestic and globally active middle-market businesses, and specialize in helping clients leverage tax incentives, implement effective tax structuring strategies, and navigate complex state and local tax matters. The majority of my clients are private equity-owned, family-owned, and foreign-owned organizations in the manufacturing, distribution, and service industries.
Clients appreciate that I apply my creative and strategic mindset to every engagement and that I am always looking for opportunities to enhance their tax position. I take a holistic view of their business to uncover the best ways to optimize their overall tax strategy — not just for today, but for future success. I’ve always enjoyed solving puzzles and was drawn to this career for the chance to tackle the new challenges that each client’s situation brings. With over a decade of experience, my greatest accomplishments include providing clients with thoughtful tax solutions to business challenges and adapting to the ever-changing tax legislation. Around the office, I’m known for providing a unique perspective and always seeking to learn something new.
I’m a member of the AICPA, the Illinois CPA Society, and the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG). I graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in accounting from Liberty University.
Outside of work, I volunteer as a youth baseball coach, and I’m involved with the children’s ministry at my local church. When I’m not spending quality family time with my wife and our three children, or watching their respective sports, I also enjoy partaking in beach days at the lake or playing chess with friends.
