PITTSBURGH — Schneider Downs, one of the largest independent accounting, consulting and advisory firms in the region, announced a series of leadership appointments and structural changes effective July 1, 2026, including a transition from a co-CEO structure to a single-CEO governance model.
Adam Goode, currently serving as chief executive officer–elect, will assume the role of CEO on that date. The shift to a single‑CEO model is intended to strengthen corporate governance, improve decision‑making efficiency and better align leadership responsibilities across the organization.
“As Schneider Downs continues to grow in size and complexity, it is important that our leadership structure supports both operational excellence and long‑term strategic focus,” Goode said. “These changes position the firm to remain nimble, disciplined and well‑governed as we look to the future.”
Creation of Chief Operating Officer Role
As part of the new structure, Schneider Downs will establish the role of chief operating officer for the first time in the firm’s history. The COO will be responsible for executing the firm’s strategy, overseeing day‑to‑day operations and leading the firm’s operating committee.
Justin Steele has been appointed Schneider Downs’ first COO, effective July 1. Steele currently serves as tax practice unit leader and has been with the firm since 2017.
In his new role, Steele will oversee all operating segments of the firm, as well as operational excellence functions including accounting and finance, technology and internal control systems, artificial intelligence and technology initiatives. Practice unit leaders and affiliate leaders across tax, audit, consulting, wealth management, SD Digital and SD Capital will report to the COO.
“This role allows the CEO and board of directors to remain focused on long‑term growth and strategy, while ensuring strong execution and operational alignment across the firm,” Goode said.
Growth and people functions, including sales and marketing and human resources, will continue to report directly to the CEO.
Tax Practice Leadership Update
With Steele’s transition to COO, Evan Ogrodnik has been appointed tax practice unit leader, effective July 1.
Ogrodnik has been with Schneider Downs since 2005 and is widely recognized for his technical expertise, client service and leadership across multiple industries. In addition to his client work, he is known within the firm as a mentor and advocate for professional development.
Additional Leadership Transitions
As part of the leadership changes, Carley Taslov has been promoted to practice unit leader of the consulting group, succeeding Goode in that role. Taslov has been with Schneider Downs since 2009 and is recognized for her business acumen, strategic insight and team leadership.
After July 1, current Co‑CEOs Chris McElroy and Steve Thompson will continue to play active roles during the leadership transition and going forward. Both will support the new leadership team, help ensure continuity for clients and team members and contribute to the firm’s ongoing growth initiatives.
Positioning for the Future
Schneider Downs’ leadership changes reflect a deliberate, multi-year planning process designed to prepare the firm for continued growth and industry transformation.
“These leaders understand who we are, what we stand for and what has enabled Schneider Downs to thrive for more than 70 years,” Goode said. “Together, this team is well positioned to guide the firm into its next chapter.”
About Schneider Downs
Schneider Downs is a Top 60 independent Certified Public Accounting (CPA) firm providing accounting, tax, audit and consulting services to public and private companies, not-for-profit organizations and global companies. We also offer risk advisory, transaction advisory, digital consulting, wealth management, retirement plan solutions and investment banking services. Schneider Downs serves individuals and companies in Pennsylvania (PA), Ohio (OH), West Virginia (WV), New York (NY), Maryland (MD), metropolitan Washington (DC) and additional states in the United States with offices in Pittsburgh, PA, Columbus, OH, and McLean, VA.