Dave Gussis

CPA, MBA

Audit Senior Manager 

Dave Gussis is a Senior Manager in Blackman Kallick’s Audit Services Group, where he leads audit teams in a variety of industries, including construction, technology, manufacturing, and distribution. As an outsourced controller, Dave provides cost-efficient, just-in-time accounting support to non-audit clients. Dave also is a key member of Blackman Kallick’s Learning and Development Committee.

Dave’s responsibilities include: 

• Managing independent audits, reviews, and compilations for privately held companies
• Acting as an outsourced controller for non-audit clients
• Evaluating the effectiveness of clients’ operational processes and controls 
• Conducting due diligence in connection with mergers and acquisitions 

Holding an MBA with a focus on strategic and operations management, Dave brings a broad business perspective to each audit engagement. He shares best practices and insights, gained from years auditing similar clients, to shore up internal controls and manage risks, such as fluctuations in the value of foreign currency and potential collection issues. Because his goal with each client is to improve efficiency without compromising effectiveness, Dave often spends time with audit clients before the audit to ensure they are properly prepared for the engagement.

Prior to joining Blackman Kallick, Dave spent two years with an accounting firm focused primarily on the construction industry. Building on this foundation, he has continued to hone his expertise in accounting for construction contracts. Dave understands the complexities of how and when to recognize contract revenue, which is an essential component in presenting reliable and accurate information to sureties and other creditors.

Dave’s technology clients benefit from his understanding of the intricacies of revenue recognition, as well as how to account for stock options and other equity instruments.

Credentials and Professional Involvement

A CPA and member of the American Institute of CPAs and Illinois CPA Society, Dave received undergraduate degrees in finance and accountancy from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. 

As a member of Blackman’s Training Committee, Dave is committed to continuously raising the bar for audit staff. He provides classroom and case-study training on topics such as preparation of financial statements, and auditing fixed assets, cash, and accounts payable.

He earned his MBA with honors from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, with concentrations in strategic management, operations management, and managerial and organizational behavior.