THEODORE M. PETTKO CPA

Since joining Schneider Downs as a CPA in 1997, Ted has earned a reputation for his insightful knowledge and experience working with both public and privately-owned companies across diverse industries, including construction, natural resources and real estate. He has earned a reputation for not just knowing his own industry, but also those of his clients, as well. By immersing himself in the businesses of his clients, Ted is viewed as an astute business advisor and student of matters falling outside of traditional accounting.

Ted has served as a member of the Schneider Downs Board of Directors since 2016, helping to guide the firm’s future direction and growth. He serves as the leader of Schneider Downs’ Construction industry group, one of the 25 largest construction accounting practices in the nation. He also chairs the firm’s overall industry niche program—a primary vehicle for Schneider Downs business leadership.

Ted is a frequent participant at national conferences, remaining current with the latest trends and insights. Through these experiences, he channels his passion to work with numerous industry-specific associations, serving on several Boards and Committees as a volunteer and active member (see listing below). He also serves his community as a board member of the Sarah Heinz House and the Laurel Highlands Council of the Boy Scouts of America, and serves on the Advisory Council for the Saint Vincent College School for Business.

He is a much-sought-after mentor to younger professionals and considers leadership and community service to be opportunities, rather than obligations.

Professional and Community Involvement

Member—American and Pennsylvania Institutes of Certified Public Accountants

Member—Master Builders Association of Pittsburgh

President—Council of Petroleum Accountants Societies of Appalachia (COPAS)

Member—Surety Association of Pittsburgh

Board Member—Sarah Heinz House

Board Member—Laurel Highlands Council of the Boy Scouts of America

Board Member—The Club at Nevillewood, Treasurer

Committee Member—Marcellus Shale Coalition, Membership

Leadership Pittsburgh XXVIII graduate

Board of Directors—Schneider Downs & Co., Inc.

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Do you have a hobby or personal passion?

Exercise, model trains and my family.

What was the best advice you’ve ever received?

You are responsible and accountable for your career.

Who was your role model?

My father.

People would be surprised to know that I…….
…have more than 9 million views on YouTube with the Anchorage Polar Bear Attack.

When you have an hour of free time, what do you like to do?
I go for a run.

Do you have advice for young professionals?
Don’t be passive with your career. Take charge, and don’t be afraid to make a mistake.

Our Thoughts On

FEATURED

Big Problem: Emerging Technology Client Unaware Of Sales Tax Requirements Upon Exit


Big Thinking: Perform Multi-jurisdictional Tax Exposure Analysis To Ensure Compliance

Shareholder TREVOR WARREN joined Schneider Downs in 2001 and has more than 20 years of experience in public accounting. He mainly focuses on audit, review and compilation engagements, and he services a diversified number of industries, from automotive to nonprofit. He also leads the firm’s Emerging Technology Services Group.
When one of the firm’s emerging technology clients was making plans to sell their business, Trevor and his team noticed that they were unaware of sales tax filing requirements. Knowing from experience how complex such requirements can be for emerging technology companies who sell products across multiple taxing jurisdictions, Trevor and his team understood that this missing piece would pose issues during due diligence and could negatively impact the client’s sale. To help ensure that the sale went smoothly, Trevor and his team suggested that the Schneider Downs state and local tax group perform a sales tax nexus study on the company. The group performed an analysis on both the client’s material revenue streams and the sales tax reporting requirements in the jurisdictions where they had customers. Then, Trevor and his team used that information to estimate the client’s total tax exposure, pinpoint the jurisdictions with significant exposure and help draft Voluntary Disclosure Agreements in those the jurisdictions. “We know that these requirements can be hard on early-stage companies when they have limited staff and revenue generation is a primary focus,” said Trevor. “By doing this analysis and going through the voluntary disclosure agreement process, we were able to get the company compliant with their sales tax filing requirements at a significantly reduced cost.” In addition, this process eliminated tax issues and exposure for the company upon exit. 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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