Luck didn?t make Alvin Katz a successful businessman. Hard work did.
Despite a rigorous schedule as the co-founder, president and chief executive officer of Katz, Abosch, Windesheim, Gershman & Freedman, Public Accountants, Katz said he always works toward improving himself. Whether it is reading an industry book, keeping up on the latest trends or attending a seminar, Katz wants to keep his mind growing as fast as his business.
“What I enjoy more than anything is the common sense,” said the 63-year-old Katz. “It?s far, far more than numbers. It?s understanding them and being able to explain them.”
Katz started KAWG&F with John Abosch in 1969, with a vision of providing a personalized approach to their client base. Located in Towson for 33 years before moving to Timonium in 2005, the firm has undergone substantial growth with Katz at the helm as chief executive officer.
Admittedly, the job he began in 1990 hasn?t always come naturally, but with lots of work and continual improvement as a business man, Katz has moved himself to the head of the class.
“I was really impressed with how sharp he was,” said Mike O?Shea, president of O?Shea Lumber, a 19-year client of KAWG&F. “Alvin Katz is the kind of guy who has a mind that doesn?t stop. He?s the real deal, as they say.”
Starting in the 1980s, Katz began shifting his focus to his community, so he rolled up his sleeves and went to work to make things better. Katz has served as an active member of the Associated Jewish Event Foundation, the Jewish Community Center, the Greater Baltimore Medical Center, the National Marrow Foundation, the Greater Baltimore Committee and the Maryland Association of Certified Public Accountants.
“I feel that I have been fortunate in my life,” Katz said, “and I am just thrilled with the opportunity to give back to the community in the way I have over the years.”
Between his community commitments and work, Katz finds opportunities to make the most of his time with his wife of 13 years, Elaine, his five children and five grandchildren.
“I find it extremely important to spend time with my family. They are No. 1, as they always should be,” Katz said. “I cherish every moment I can get with them.”
