Joseph D. Santese III, MBA

Manager

Joseph is a manager in AAFCPAs’ audit practice, where he oversees the planning and administration of financial statement audits for sophisticated nonprofits, including community development corporations (CDCs) and their affordable housing projects, community development finance institutions (CDFIs), and multi-service human and social services providers.

Joseph offers comprehensive solutions for clients that need to achieve single audit and Uniform Guidance compliance audit requirements as well as those with state filing requirements, such as the Massachusetts Uniform Financial Statement (UFR). He provides expertise in addressing the unique audit considerations of entities receiving state and federal funding—with a focus on internal control over compliance for major programs. He also leads program-specific audits for limited partnerships in select HUD Housing programs and assists clients with cost certifications along with 50% and 95-5 tests related to development properties.

As audit engagement ‘quarterback’, he assists with the preparation of individual audit plans and reviews client operations to identify new areas of audit significance as appropriate. Joseph also provides clear direction and oversight to junior auditors and resolves questions and issues that arise during the audit, referring to management or audit partners as appropriate.

In addition to his client-service responsibilities, Joseph is an active member of the firm’s Accounting and Assurance Committee. He conducts internal training sessions on UFR, CDC, and CDFI topics while mentoring and developing junior staff. Joseph is based in Westborough, Massachusetts and is currently working toward his CPA certification. He has been a dedicated long-distance runner since his college years and still enjoys four- to five-mile runs to recharge.

Education

  • Nichols College – Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Nichols College – Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Accounting & Finance, summa cum laude

Professional and Civic Associations

  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
  • Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants