Richard F. Waigand

Partner
SFW Partners LLC

Location: St. Louis, MO
Founded: 1994
Industry: Accounting

Richard F. Waigand reaps what he sows.

As a leader, his mission is ”to serve and support people, achieving more together,” he said. Waigand is a partner at SFW Partners LLC, an accounting firm located in St. Louis, MO.

After graduating with his bachelor of science in accountancy from Missouri State University in 1992, Waigand earned his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certificate in 1993. Since joining SFW Partners in 2005, Waigand has become one of the firm’s senior partners.

Today, with more than 49 team members, Waigand has helped grow SFW’s client base significantly. With specializations in construction, real estate, hospitality, not-for-profit organizations, as well as employee benefit plans, he also works directly with the internal staff.

“The firm believes that the only way to move forward is to invest in its biggest asset – their employees,” Waigand said.

Whether it’s through training, mentoring, helping coordinate company-wide events, Waigand is always trying to find ways to help motivate staff and let them know that they are appreciated and valued.

Waigand’s leadership and dedication goes beyond the office.

In addition to his affiliations with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), Employee Benefit Audit Quality Center (EBPAQC), and Missouri Society of Certified Public Accountants (MOCPA), he is currently on the boards of Lafayette Industries and the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership.

He has received numerous awards for his work at SFW including: Best Accountant (Small Business Monthly) and being named one of STL’s Top Leaders (Small Business Monthly).

Additionally, he was instrumental in helping to get the SFW Gives Back foundation off the ground. He continues to be a good steward of the organization and is committed to ensure that the company will continue to see financial growth and stability well into the future.

“My vision of SFW Partners in five years is simply a better version of ourselves,” Waigand said. “We will stay committed to our core purpose to serve and support people, achieving more together.”

He added that SFW will continue to attract and retain customers by offering the highest quality of customer service.

“In the current highly competitive accounting industry, companies that compromise the quality of service are set on a path to failure,” Waigand said. “Our team members strive every day to build strong relationships, to foster the potential of those in our circles of influence and find ways to bring creative solutions to our clients. We strive to deliver high levels of service and to provide more in value than what is expected out of traditional CPA relationships so that our current clients become walking ambassadors for our firm.”

And with Waigand’s leadership, there is no doubt that SFW will continue to thrive.

“Leadership comes from caring about the development and well-being of those in your charge,” he said. “Give abundantly and be open to receiving.”