“We have always had a saying: ‘See risk, seek help.’”
That’s been a guiding tenet for John Mather’s career. “Whenever a complex opportunity arises, I make sure to consider all the relevant options and seek counsel and guidance from those I trust,” he said.
Mather is the managing partner for the FORVIS St. Louis and Decatur markets. A professional services firm, FORVIS provides assurance, tax, and advisory services. As managing partner, Mather oversees the administration, planning and operations for more than 150 personnel serving more than 4,500 business and individual clients.
Mather is a 1991 graduate of Southeast Missouri State University, with a B.S. degree in accounting. Early on, he knew he wanted to be an accountant and help people financially and help their companies grow. Over the years, he built his career with the firm, formerly called BKD, moving from local office to regional leader roles.
Prior to becoming the St. Louis and Decatur offices’ managing partner, Mather was the national industry partner for FORVIS’ Commercial Products Practice and was responsible for overseeing a team of approximately 500 advisors who serve more than 4,600 commercial entities.
“John has grown our firm through his leadership with the commercial products team throughout the company and grown our St. Louis/Decatur practice since taking the helm. He has brought new energy and continues to forge a positive company culture while being active in his profession and community,” said his nominator.
Under John’s leadership the firm gained many new and larger clients. That provided the opportunity for other firm members to grow their careers, as well as the need to expand the team. Building and nurturing that team has been a point of pride for Mather as he works to pass on the support and coaching he himself received early in his career.
“I have always been surrounded by great mentors and leaders. I never felt I was taking a risk in building the foundation for my career,” he said.
For Mather, building the FORVIS community means bridging the gap between firm veterans and a new generation. Always remembering his roots, Mather continues to keep in touch with retired partners. He also serves his college on the Corporate Governance Board and Harrison Business School Advisory Board for Southeast Missouri State University. He can often be found speaking to accounting students or coaching accounting interns.
“Successful leaders have to be good listeners,” Mather said. “They’re someone who focuses on helping others grow and achieve more than they thought they could.”
