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Citrin Cooperman Cofounder Joel Cooperman Departs After Over Four Decades of Leadership
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Joel Cooperman, cofounder of New York-based professional services firm Citrin Cooperman, officially departed the firm on March 31, marking the end of a career that spanned more than four decades. Having served as CEO for most of the firm’s history, including the last four years as executive chairman, Cooperman’s departure represents a significant transition for one of the industry’s most influential figures.
Cooperman co-founded the firm in 1979 alongside Niles Citrin. What began in a modest New York City apartment—funded in part by two iconic English rock bands—grew into one of the country’s leading advisory and accounting firms. Under Cooperman’s visionary leadership, Citrin Cooperman expanded its footprint and capabilities dramatically, most recently reporting FY23 net revenue of $674 million.
Reflecting on the firm's origins, Cooperman remarked, “I can assure you that Niles Citrin and I never had any plans to build a firm larger than the two of us and maybe a couple of others. In the early years, accounting was still viewed primarily as a profession and not as a full business – this never really made sense to me.” He added that creating a culture where employees and partners could thrive was essential for long-term success.
Cooperman was instrumental in steering the firm’s entrepreneurial trajectory. Over the years, he led Citrin Cooperman through more than 65 acquisitions and lateral partner additions. These strategic moves significantly enhanced the firm’s ability to offer comprehensive services to a broad client base while reinforcing a collaborative, team-centric approach to growth.
In offering parting wisdom to the next generation of professionals, Cooperman advised, “I have always been surprised that so many people do not understand how much they have to offer, how much potential they have. If I could offer any advice, it would be to figure out what you are good at and what you love to do, make a plan, write it down, and then go after it every day.”
Joel Cooperman leaves behind a firm that not only bears his name but also stands as a testament to his vision, leadership, and enduring impact on the accounting profession.
Until next time…
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