Founding Leaders Herb Alexander and Jack Finning Retire After Decades of Dedication

AAFCPAs is proud to have honored two of its founding leaders, Herb Alexander, CPA, CFF, CGMA, and Jack Finning, CPA, CGMA, upon their retirement at the end of 2024. These remarkable entrepreneurs have not only shaped the company’s legacy but also set a standard for excellence in client service, leadership, and social responsibility.

Herb Alexander, who founded the company in 1973, envisioned an organization built on collaboration, integrity, and a passion for helping clients thrive. Over his distinguished career, Herb provided invaluable guidance to closely held businesses, led AAFCPAs’ trust services, and advised on countless mergers, acquisitions, and transitions. His financial acumen extended beyond the firm, as evidenced by his long-standing board service at Boston Private Financial Holdings Corp. Herb’s dedication to community service, recognized with awards like the Parker Trowbridge Award and the Good Scout Award, underscores his belief in using business as a force for good.

Reflecting on Herb’s contributions, Carla McCall, CPA, CGMA, Managing Partner, shared: “Herb, as the founder of AAFCPAs, created a culture of teamwork and unity. His vision, passion, and unwavering desire to help others have left an indelible mark on the firm and the community. We will continue to honor what he started, ensuring the firm’s mission and sustainability for years to come.”

Jack Finning, who joined the firm in 1981 and became its third partner, has been instrumental in shaping AAFCPAs’ success. A trusted advisor to businesses and nonprofits alike, Jack is known for his expertise in tax strategy, exit planning, and nonprofit financial management. His ability to build strong client relationships and mentor the next generation of leaders reflects his commitment to fostering growth and upholding the values that have sustained the firm for more than 50 years. Beyond his professional work, Jack’s generous volunteer efforts enriched the communities he’s served.

Carla adds: “Jack taught us the importance of building meaningful relationships and the power of peer support. His genuine care for clients, colleagues, and the community has made a lasting impression at AAFCPAs. We are grateful for his guidance and look forward to hearing about his future adventures on the golf course and with his family.”

Herb and Jack’s leadership have been instrumental in creating a unique and enduring culture at AAFCPAs, one that continues to set the firm apart. Herb often reflects with pride on the rare achievement of successfully passing the torch to the next generation, a feat that most firms of this size struggle to accomplish. “I’m so proud to be able to turn it over to people who are better than the first generation,” Herb shared. “Not many firms are able to do that.” He recognizes the exceptional talent within AAFCPAs and the strength of its management, a testament to the company’s ongoing commitment to excellence.

From day one, AAFCPAs embraced a ‘one firm’ mentality, where the collective strength of the team has always taken precedence over individual achievement. This philosophy has fostered a collaborative environment where new partners are welcomed and supported with a solid foundation of clients, easing their transition and setting them up for success. The firm has also served as a nurturing ground for ‘homegrown’ talent, including college graduates who joined the firm with no book of business, providing them with the opportunity to grow and thrive.

As Herb and Jack transition into their next chapter, joining their colleague Joel Aronson who retired in 2019, they leave behind a company rooted in the values they upheld for decades. AAFCPAs is grateful for their entrepreneurial courage and commitment to excellence, which will continue to guide the firm’s growth. We extend our heartfelt thanks to both for their extraordinary contributions and wish them much happiness in this next chapter, surrounded by family, friends, and the joys of a well-earned retirement.