Chris Schmidt
Seattle
President & COO
Moss Adams LLP
"The size of Moss Adams helps you grow at your own pace, develop your individual leadership style, and reach your full potential.”
PROFILE
Chris became interested in accounting in college when he realized that he wanted to study the building blocks of business and embark on a career that would give him many options. He joined us after working at a local accounting firm in Orange County, California. In addition to the people, Chris was attracted to Moss Adams because of our size: big enough to work on a variety of client engagements and able to compete with large and small firms. He made partner in 1991 and focused on providing assurance services to construction, manufacturing, and distribution businesses until 1997, when he became managing partner of the Orange County office. Chris was appointed President and COO of Moss Adams for a five-year term in 2004 and was reappointed to a second term in 2009.
STORY
Chris thrives on daily interactions with the Moss Adams team, the opportunities here, and the fast pace. He also appreciates the challenges and growth that come with a career in public accounting. “I can’t think of one day in my career when I haven’t learned something new,” he says. “And I get to work with smart people who really care about each other as well as our clients.” Chris also knows that without rest, you won’t do well, so he makes a point to take time off when he needs it. When he’s not in the office, he likes to spend time with his family and pursue various hobbies, including skiing, hiking, climbing, and cycling.