March 4, 2016
It’s not often that an incredibly talented, driven professional walks through your office doors in the hopes of being hired.
It’s even less likely that such a person comes around twice.
Such was the case, however, with Lawrence DeBaltzo, CPA, CGMA, CVA. Lawrence first came to Hobe and Lucas in search of an accounting position in 1992, and we soon learned we were lucky to have him, as he expertly provided accounting, consulting and tax services to many pleased clients. When Lawrence announced he would be leaving the firm after eight years to take a partner position at another firm (and eventually to start his own consulting business), it was disappointing, but we were all the more pleased when he returned to the firm in 2010 with more energy and valuable experience than ever.
Lawrence’s story is not only a special one because he came back; it is special because he came back and thrived to the point that today we proudly announce his appointment to partner in the firm.
Lawrence has drawn upon his varied professional experience to become an even more trusted advisor to clients in the construction, hospitality, retail, professional services, not-for-profit and other markets. That experience, combined with Lawrence’s Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA) certification, have been especially valuable given his recent focus on providing business valuation services for our clients. He is fond of saying that accountants are historians writing the story of a business, and he now has a special ability to help business owners write the next chapter for their businesses—whether it be through assisting with the sale of a business, buy-sell agreements, gift and estate tax issues, or succession planning.
Lawrence graduated with honors from John Carroll University in 1991 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, a major in accounting and a minor in economics. He is currently a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants, the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts, and Beta Gamma Sigma. He also serves as an adjunct instructor of tax and accounting education at Cuyahoga Community College.
“I am proud to be a partner in Hobe & Lucas—a keeper of the legacy of success of the firm’s founders, Dave and Jerry,” Lawrence explains. “It’s funny—I was here for nearly eight years, took a different path and somehow ended up back where I started… I guess you eventually just know when you’re home. I am excited about the possibilities this new appointment allows, and I look forward to working toward growing the firm and delivering all the more value to our clients.”
You can connect with Lawrence anytime at LawrenceD@Hobe.Com, or by calling 216-524-8900 x250.
Hobe & Lucas Certified Public Accountants, Inc. is a full-service accounting and business consulting firm dedicated to providing clients with exceptional value.
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