Meet the SST Partners: Ryan Schilhab
Welcome to the second installment of our “Meet the SST Partners” blog series! In this series, we’re getting to know the talented leaders who guide our firm with their vision, expertise and dedication.
This month, we’re highlighting SST Tax Partner Ryan Schilhab. Former managing partner of boutique Dallas tax firm Schilhab Bezner CPAs, Ryan joined the SST team earlier this year when both firms merged to provide integrated services and specialized industry expertise to a growing clientele.
Read on for an in-depth conversation with Ryan about his career, goals for SST and advice for young professionals.
As your first anniversary with SST approaches, can you briefly share your history with the firm and prior experience?
I started my career in public accounting at a small firm in San Antonio. After nine years, my family decided to make the move to Dallas, where I explored a few different entrepreneurial opportunities. In 2018, I acquired J Bezner, Inc., PC-CPA and founded Schilhab Bezner CPAs (SBCPA), where I tripled our team size and expanded the firm’s services. Earlier this year, I made the decision to merge SBCPA with SST to continue that growth, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the journey that led me here today.
What has been your favorite moment or memory at SST so far?
Merging two firms has been both a valuable opportunity and a challenging one, as growing pains are inevitable. My favorite moments have been hearing my (formerly SBCPA) team members express that, since the merger, SST feels like home. Knowing that both teams fit so well together has confirmed that joining SST was the right decision.
In your opinion, what sets SST apart from other accounting firms?
SST is positioned in the middle of the market. We’re not too small, but not too big. We’re the right size to offer relational client service while also bringing a variety of industry expertise and technical depth to our work.
What are some of your goals for the firm moving forward?
My goals for SST are to maintain the same level of high-quality service and employee work-life balance that has historically set both firms apart while also embracing growth opportunities and innovation in the accounting industry. Currently, there’s a nationwide shortage of CPAs, and I’m passionate about encouraging young professionals to enter the field. Attracting great talent is key to investing in our team for the long haul.
What advice would you give to other accountants or CPAs who are just starting their careers?
My biggest piece of advice is to be intentional with your career. Taking the initiative to try new things and assume more responsibilities demonstrates maturity and makes you indispensable to your employer. Be patient, commit to your career and advocate for yourself – good things will come. Never stop learning.
What advice would you give yourself ten years ago?
Learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Take risks and embrace change. Anxiety can be common in the tax and accounting industries, but nothing ever gets solved by worrying. Don’t stress – just work hard, be adaptable and stay patient.
