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How well do you know GJM Senior Audit Associate Ryan Avery? You may have worked with Ryan for a while, but you’re sure to learn something new. Enjoy this Q&A.

Name and title: Ryan Avery, Senior Audit Associate

Describe your role at GJM. I work in our audit and risk assurance practice where I work closely with our clients to help them better understand the company’s potential risks and assist them with meeting reporting deadlines. I often have the privilege to help mentor our young staff and interns while on the job.

When did you start at GJM? I started right out of college with GJM in September of 2013.

Why did you choose the accounting industry? What first led me to the accounting industry was watching my uncle as a kid who was a financial advisor. He was always very successful, and I wanted to be like him when I grew up. When I got to high school, the only business class that was offered was accounting. Therefore, I decided to try it and enjoyed the challenges of my accounting classes throughout college and my internships.

GJM is quite involved in the community. Any particular programs or volunteer work you’ve enjoyed being involved in here? I have really enjoyed being a part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Christmas party that GJM puts on ever year. I love seeing the excitement on the kids’ faces throughout the event.

What do you like best about the accounting profession? My favorite part of the accounting profession is that I am always learning new things. I am constantly learning not only from my co-workers but from our clients as well. I really enjoy getting to work with so many different types of people and seeing the logistics of many businesses.

Are you from the Toledo area originally? If not, where are you from? I was born in Toledo, raised in Perrysburg, and currently reside in Monclova. Northwest Ohio has always been home!

What do you like about living in Northwest Ohio? My favorite part about living in Northwest Ohio is most of my family lives in the area. With only having one sibling, it was nice growing up with my cousins around as well. I feel so blessed having such a close and supportive extended family.

Where did you go to school? I completed both my undergraduate and Masters of Accountancy degrees at Bowling Green State University.

Do you have any pets, hobbies, family? My wife says that I knew what I signed up for when I married her given that she is a self-diagnosed crazy cat lady. Currently we have six cats, three indoor and three outdoor. Our outdoor cats do a good job of keeping the mice out of the hay, which is great for our two horses. We enjoy taking them for rides at Oak Openings and to the ice cream shop. Our farm still felt like it was missing something, so in June we are getting a blue heeler to help keep everyone in line.

How do you like to spend your free time? When I am not hanging out with my animals, I am usually reading the latest Dave Ramsey or other business development books. I enjoy waking up early to meet up with my 5:30 am workout group. Recently, I have taken up woodworking. My wife loves this hobby, so I can build her more cat towers.

Are you involved in any community organizations, do any volunteer work? I am very excited to be leading a Financial Peace University class at my church this spring. My wife and I have recently started volunteering with our church at Vision Kitchen.

What is something people may be surprised to find out about you? I am always up for a challenge, which is why I think I enjoy doing extreme mud runs such as the Tough Mudder and Spartan races. I have also completed two 50-mile ultra-marathons. One of my goals is to complete a 100 miler in the near future.    

Established in 1996, Gilmore Jasion Mahler, LTD (GJM) is the largest public accounting firm in Northwest Ohio, with offices in Maumee and Findlay. Locally owned, GJM offers cloud-based accounting services and provides comprehensive services including assurance, business advisory, tax, risk advisory and healthcare management. The Firm's professionals specialize in industries including construction & real estate, healthcare, manufacturing & distribution and utilities.