JAMES A. SAYRE CPA

Jim possesses more than 15 years of experience in consulting and advising public and privately held clients in the areas of income and franchise taxation. As a Shareholder in the tax department, Jim is one of our firm’s leading experts in the area of accounting for income tax, including accounting for mergers and acquisitions, in accordance with ASC 740.

Jim has served clients in various industries, including healthcare, retail, manufacturing, technology and professional services. He provides services to the firm’s clients that include the coordination and review of corporate, partnership and individual tax returns, including implementation of tax planning strategies.

Prior to working at Schneider Downs, Jim worked at a Big Four accounting firm and a large regional firm, where he provided tax compliance and advisory services to clients ranging from multi-national public entities to family-owned businesses.

Education

B.S.B.A.- Accounting, Youngstown State University

Professional and Community Involvement

Member—American and Pennsylvania Institutes of Certified Public Accountants

Member—Schneider Downs SEC and Private Equity Practice Groups

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Do you have a hobby/personal passion?
I enjoy playing and watching basketball.

What was the best advice you’ve ever received?
Everyone has something to teach so look for the lessons you can learn from other’s experiences.

Who is your role model?
I’ve had many in different aspects, but above all and for many reasons, my role model has been my grandfather.  He taught me to look for the value in a hard day’s work and that sometimes doing a task that others do not want to do can lead to better opportunities.

What was your childhood dream?
I wanted to be a doctor…..right up until I took my first science class and realized I should stick with math.

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your college self? 
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, because those will teach the most impactful lessons.

What is the best or most interesting thing about your career?
The collaborative environment helping to learn from each other’s viewpoints and experiences.

What was your first job?
I worked at a carnival running different games….my first experience with long hours.

When you have an hour of free time, what do you like to do?
Spend time with my son and daughter.

Do you have advice for young professionals? 
Stay open to new experiences especially those that challenge you.  The areas that are difficult provide the most learning opportunities and the struggle helps you grow.

Our Thoughts On

FEATURED

Big Problem: Incorrect Accounting Methods


Big Thinking: Seven Figure Tax Savings.

Shareholder GENNARO DIBELLO has widespread experience in all areas of tax and business planning associated with closely held companies, and he's been with Schneider Downs since 1987.
During a routine review of one of our client's operations, Gennaro's team identified something that wasn't very routine at all. They discovered that the client was using multiple incorrect methods and calculations for computing tax depreciation for their fixed assets. Gennaro met the client to discuss the issue, presented a solution to correct the problem, quantified the results, and implemented the changes resulting in a favorable adjustment of nearly $4.5 million. Gennaro's expertise and eye for detail was critical in helping this client fix a problem they didn't even realize that they had. "We're good at identifying opportunities or exposures that aren't on our clients' radars," Gennaro said. "It's not necessarily what we were originally retained to do, but while we're executing our engagements, we're always looking for new ways to help our clients and minimize their tax burden." Schneider Downs provides Big Thinking and Personal Focus in delivering a variety of services for large and small businesses, both publicly and privately held, as well as nonprofit organizations, government entities and more. Through our commitment to thought leadership and knowledge management, we deliver the solutions our clients need with a personal commitment to service.

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