Benjamin J. Ritenour, CPA, CGMA

Ben brings fifteen years of eclectic experience to the firm’s clientele. After beginning his career in the tax department of a large regional firm, he spent seven years as a controller of a regional distributor and retailer, overseeing the finances of seven locations across four Mid-Atlantic states before joining Walz Group in the Assurance Division.

As a Director in the Assurance Division, Ben’s broad expertise supplements the firm’s traditional offerings. Not only does he oversee compilation and review engagements, but his hands-on experience in the private industry allows him to perform various consultative services for clients, including outsourced CFO services and bank examination procedures.

In light of the myriad recent law changes and proposed bills resulting from the economic response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, Ben has led the firm’s charge in addressing and helping clients assess the implications of this legislation. In particular, Ben has been the leading voice in the firm in educating employees and clients about all facets of the Paycheck Protection Program and related forgiveness. In addition, he has appeared on webinars hosted both by the firm and by outside organizations, such as the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce and Industry, to display his deep knowledge and insight into PPP.

In addition to his work within the Assurance Division, Ben also oversees and directs the EasyKeep division of bookkeepers. Ben’s leadership has created greater cohesion between the weekly, monthly, and quarterly tasks handled by the firm’s bookkeepers and the annual reporting responsibilities within other areas of the Assurance Division.

Ben’s easy-going temperament builds rapport with those he works with and teams with an impressive ability to master complex concepts quickly. He excels at educating both newer staff and seasoned controllers and CFO’s. Ben has distinguished himself as one of the firm’s foremost presenters of in-house continuing education and informal lectures to clients, referral sources, and business partners.