Richard Lenderman, EA has over 14 years of individual and small business tax planning experience, and in 2025 he was promoted to firm partner of LittleOwl CPA. We wanted to ask him his thoughts on the future, his accounting experience, what he’s most looking forward to, and more. Here’s what Atlanta’s newest accounting firm partner had to say!
Congratulations, Richard! What excites you about becoming a partner at LittleOwl CPA?
When I joined LittleOwl CPA two years ago, becoming partner was a top goal of mine. Our company has an elite staff and we continue to grow organically at a lightning pace. Tabitha is an unbelievable human being and I could not be more excited to join her as we look to grow and expand for years to come. Additionally, becoming partner fulfills a professional goal I’ve looked to achieve for years. Making it happen here has been special on many levels.
When did you first start in accounting and how has the industry changed since you first started?
I first started in accounting back in 2009, coincidentally with Tabitha! The industry has changed substantially. At my first two jobs, all accounting preparation was still very manual. We did have software but the documents were paper and keeping up with everyone’s documents was more time consuming. In today’s world, we have an array of software that keeps us moving at a faster pace and allows to focus our time on more advisory versus just tax preparation and bookkeeping.
What were some of the pivotal moments in your career?
I’d say the pivotal years in my career were from 2010 to 2014. I worked for two different firms that really took the time to invest in me as an employee. I learned a significant amount about bookkeeping, payroll and tax. The bookkeeping and payroll laid a strong foundation to fully understand business taxes. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention my former employers, Randall Brittain and Sam Levy, who played a pivotal role in my professional development. Their patience and willingness to invest in a young employee propelled me to where I am today.
What is your favorite part of being a “trusted guide” for your clients?
My favorite part of being a trusted advisor is the relationship with my clients. I truly enjoy getting to know my clients so I can best advise them. I enjoy understanding their goals and helping them develop a gameplan to help clients work towards their vision.
Any passion projects?
I really enjoy helping clients resolve complicated tax issues. Though these projects can be time consuming, it is rewarding to help a client resolve outstanding notices or fix errors in previous years’ filings. Going back as far as I can remember, I have always enjoyed solving problems, which has translated well in my accounting career.
What do you love about LittleOwl?
I love our efficiency. We have a strong team who each care about making sure the process is working as efficiently as possible. This ensures our clients are getting the best possible service. It also ensures we are on the cutting edge of new developments that can benefit both the firm and our clients.
How do you envision contributing to the firm’s growth over the next few years?
I envision LittleOwl CPA continuing to grow substantially over the next few years. I will continue to help lead the business and tax advisory services and further develop our staff’s knowledge and expertise. There are so many small businesses that need our help and guidance. It is great to be in a position to help these small businesses thrive while staying on top of their regulatory needs.
What’s your favorite part of being a tax expert?
My favorite part of being a tax expert is being able to guide clients with certainty. When it comes down to it, our tax system is complicated. Sometimes, it’s about keeping advisement simple. I enjoy breaking down the complexities into small bites so my clients can understand. To me, it’s crucial for the client to understand the plan so we can work together to execute the best advisement possible.
Want to connect with Richard? You can connect with him via Calendly.
