In an era where businesses often come and go, the milestone of 75 years in operation is a testament to resilience, commitment, and a deep-rooted connection to the local community. Meyers Brothers Kalicka (MBK), an accounting firm based in Western Massachusetts, is celebrating this remarkable achievement with pride. Two of the firm's partners, James (Jim) Krupienski and Howard Cheney, both Westfield residents, are at the forefront of this celebration, sharing their insights into MBK’s journey, values, and vision for the future.
A Strong History of Local Commitment
MBK’s history is interwoven with the community it serves. Established in 1948, MBK has not only provided accounting and financial services but has also been a driving force behind the region’s growth and prosperity. Jim Krupienski reflects, "Being from Westfield, we have a unique perspective on the local landscape. Our roots are deeply embedded here, and we have seen this community evolve over the years. We feel a strong sense of responsibility to contribute to its success."
Howard Cheney adds, "Our firm is not just about numbers; it's about people and relationships. We believe in the power of community, and our clients aren't just clients; they are our neighbors and friends. Our work goes beyond financial statements; it's about supporting the ambitions of the people and businesses in Western Massachusetts."
Giving Back
In addition to offering growth-oriented services to clients, MBK has actively engaged in philanthropic endeavors, extending its impact beyond business. They have a strong conviction in contributing to the community, which is a fundamental aspect of their mission and vision. They consistently take proactive measures to bring their beliefs into action. Howard states, "We succeed when our community succeeds. Our people are service-minded and work hard to impact their community. Many of our professionals serve on boards, volunteer regularly, fundraise, serve as mentors, and coordinate firm-sponsored days of service."
MBK proudly gives back to the community year-round in three ways: monthly charitable initiatives, dress down days for charity every payday, and through corporate sponsorships. Last year, the firm donated to more than 75 local charities. Their dedication to community service is a testament to their values and their aspiration to be a beacon of community support, both in their professional work and their outreach efforts.
A Commitment to Clients
Central to MBK's enduring success is its unwavering commitment to its clients. For Krupienski and Cheney, the client relationship is the foundation upon which the firm is built. They have a passion for delivering the highest quality service and forging lasting partnerships with their Clients.
Cheney underscores this commitment, saying, "Our clients are not just a part of our business; they are at the heart of it. We view each engagement as an opportunity to make a difference, to help our clients achieve their goals. It's not just about providing accounting services; it's about being their trusted advisors and partners in success. I want each client to feel confident in us and to look at us as a great resource, working to make them successful."
Krupienski adds, "We have clients who have been with us for decades. We are proud of these long-standing relationships and the trust our clients have placed in us. It's a testament to our commitment to providing personalized, quality service that meets their unique needs."
Their Staff is Their Greatest Asset
As MBK celebrates its 75th anniversary, it does so with a clear vision for the future. The partners emphasize their commitment to becoming an employer of choice in the region. They envision MBK as a place where professionals are not just accountants but are also deeply engaged in the community they serve. Cheney elaborates, "We want to be known for our organizational culture and our commitment to the community. We are setting the bar high, not just for ourselves but for the entire industry."
MBK's dedication to its employees is evident in its commitment to providing the resources and training necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving field of public accounting. Krupienski says, "We are entering a new era of public accounting, one that demands innovation, adaptability, and a keen understanding of technology and its impact. We want to ensure that our professionals are well-equipped to meet these challenges and provide the highest level of quality service to our Clients."
Howard and Jim went on to share that in an industry often associated with long hours and high stress, MBK stands out by prioritizing the well-being and work-life balance of its employees. The firm understands that a healthy work-life balance is essential for employee satisfaction, productivity, and long-term success. They firmly believe that when employees are able to strike a harmonious balance between their professional and personal lives, they are better equipped to deliver top-notch service to clients and contribute positively to the community. They agreed, “It’s not just about the work; it's about empowering employees to lead fulfilling lives both inside and outside the office.”
Looking to the Future
In its 75 years of operation, MBK has consistently gone above and beyond to meet the needs of its clients. James Krupienski notes, "We take pride in our ability to anticipate our clients' needs and provide proactive solutions. It's about being responsive and reliable, ensuring that our clients have the peace of mind that we are always there for them."
MBK's commitment to its clients extends beyond the traditional scope of accounting services. The firm is dedicated to staying ahead of industry trends and technological advancements to better serve its clients in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
As MBK celebrates its 75th anniversary, it does so with a clear vision for the future, setting a higher standard for client service in the industry. Krupienski emphasizes, "We are not content with the status quo. We aim to raise the bar continually. Our clients deserve nothing less than excellence, and we are committed to delivering that excellence every day."
Cheney adds, "We are really focused on maintaining our independence as a firm and business here in Western Mass. We are really focused on making what will be a successful 4th generation of ownership. So you figure Joe Kalicka and Ben Meyers (1st), David Kalicka and Stu Meyers (2nd), Myself and partners (3rd), we are really focused on the next one.”
MBK is leveraging this milestone as a springboard for the future, reiterating its commitment to its employees, clients, and the community. The firm's strong dedication to its roots, values, and community is commendable, serving as a model for businesses everywhere. As they expand and adapt, Meyers Brothers Kalicka is not just an accounting firm; it embodies community, culture, commitment, and client-centric service, guiding the way for the next 75 years and beyond.
"We are not content with the status quo. We aim to raise the bar continually. Our clients deserve nothing less than excellence, and we are committed to delivering that excellence every day." - Krupienski
