Richard S. Willinger

For Rick Willinger, it’s all about the clients. Rick is a Managing Director and Principal with Mercadien, who leads the firm’s tax department and works with individuals and businesses. Quarterbacking for his clients, Rick advises them through major life or business events, such as buying or selling a business, succession and exit planning, or sending children to college, planning for retirement, or planning for care for elderly family members. He reminds his clients of author, Shiv Khera’s words, “Positive action with positive thinking results in success.” He has extensive knowledge on the regulations business owner face and assists his clients in navigating them to improve their business.

Rick truly enjoys meeting face-to-face with his clients. He feels that he gets a better understanding of their needs, and even uncovers new needs, just by having a conversation. He will set up a series of meetings if clients need to discuss items in depth, or he will advise clients over the phone. Rick always makes his schedule work for his clients.

Rick started his career working as an entry level auditor at a Big Four firm. After a few years, he changed his focus to tax and worked his way up the ranks to eventually become a partner. When Rick joined Mercadien 20 years ago, the tax group consisted of four people. He had the pleasure of watching and helping the firm grow and see a shift toward specialization.