Assurance Partner discusses firm growth, client service, and the future of accounting through AI integration
Pivot CPAs is proud to share that Sheryl Tschimpke, Assurance Partner and head of the firm’s Assurance Department, was recently featured on Legacy of Leaders, an inspiring business-focused Web TV series hosted by Whitney Mincey. The show spotlights high-performing leaders from around the world, offering insights into their careers, leadership philosophies, and industry trends.
During the episode, Sheryl shared her professional journey, the comprehensive services offered by Pivot CPAs, and how the firm is leading the way in integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its assurance services.
A Local Firm with Regional Strength
When introducing herself and the company, Sheryl emphasized Pivot CPAs’ status as the largest regionally owned, locally operated accounting firm in Northeast Florida. With 11 partners and a second location in Gainesville, Pivot CPAs provides a full spectrum of audit, tax, family office, consulting, and accounting services. This broad range enables Pivot CPAs to support businesses at every stage — from startup through growth and acquisition.
Sheryl also noted the firm’s specialty areas in assurance services: construction, manufacturing, transportation, logistics, nonprofits, and employee benefit plans. “We don’t service public companies anymore,” she explained, “but we have deep expertise with private, locally owned businesses — particularly medium to large operations.”
A Career Grounded in Service
During the interview, Sheryl reflected on her career path, which began in the U.S. Navy. During her time in the military, she handled recordkeeping and accounting for her squadron, including reporting to the Defense Accounting Office — an experience that laid the groundwork for her future in finance.
After earning her degree while still serving, Sheryl transitioned into the civilian workforce, starting as a staff accountant at the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and eventually rising to the role of Accounting Director. From there, she moved into public accounting and has now spent more than 25 years in the field.
“It’s always something new every day,” she said. “That’s what keeps it exciting and meaningful.”
Innovating Through AI
A highlight of the conversation focused on the role of artificial intelligence in modern accounting and how Pivot CPAs has made the investment to incorporate AI in its audit process. Sheryl revealed that out of all public accounting firms that have transitioned to this new AI integrated audit platform, Pivot CPAs is first firm in the country to transition 100% of all assurance engagements to the AI driven software — a bold move that has dramatically improved speed, accuracy, and risk assessment.
“What it’s really done is taken out a lot of the manual process,” she said. “It allows us to work more efficiently and focus on the areas of real risk. It’s also helped us analyze and make sense of data in ways that just weren’t possible before.”
As she explained, traditional audits often involved sampling data — a process that could miss anomalies if errors didn’t happen to appear in the sample. Now, thanks to AI-powered recalculations, the team can assess an entire data population, increasing accuracy and client confidence.
While some initial resistance to AI was expected, Sheryl noted that clients have quickly recognized the value. “The first year might be a little eye-opening, but after that, they know they’re in compliance and everything is working smoothly.”
Supporting Businesses at Every Stage
The conversation also touched on client relationships. Sheryl emphasized that Pivot CPAs works with companies at all phases of growth — from newly launched ventures to well-established operations preparing for acquisition or expansion.
Many clients begin with tax services and transition to assurance as they scale. “We’re there from the beginning,” she said. “And we grow with them.”
A Legacy of Leadership
Sheryl’s appearance on Legacy of Leaders highlights more than just technical expertise — it’s a testament to Pivot CPAs’ commitment to forward-thinking solutions, deep community ties, and the personal dedication of its partners and team.
As a firm rooted in relationships and driven by innovation, Pivot CPAs continues to be a trusted partner for businesses throughout Florida and beyond.
Watch the full interview from Legacy of Leaders, and to learn more about our services, visit www.pivotcpas.com.
Need help with assurance, tax, or accounting services tailored to your business?
Reach out to Sheryl and the team at Pivot CPAs — your growth is our priority.