Three ambitious CCNY graduates, David Anchin, Max Block, and Max Anchin, laid the foundation of what would become Anchin, Block & Anchin LLP. Their initial journey began modestly in a two-desk, one-room office in the Bronx.
David C. Anchin founded and steered Anchin from its inception in 1923 and continued his leadership until his retirement in 1979, marking over five decades of stewardship.
The firm moved to 72nd street in Manhattan and hired their first Jr. Accountant, Julius (Jack) Epstein, who would remain with the firm for over 50 years.
Anchin hired Richard Rosen, who became the Firm’s first Management Services partner. During this time, Financial Statements were broken down by hand into a detailed management analysis of running a business/lines of business financial reporting. With a hands-on approach to detailed business analysis, the firm differentiated itself in an era where such services were a novelty.
Making a significant investment, Anchin brings in a colossal Honeywell computer, showcasing a commitment to technological advancement.
Having become a partner in 1942, Howard Anchin became Managing Partner in 1969, providing leadership and guidance until his retirement in 1981.
Recognizing the importance of camaraderie and internal relationships, the Partners’/Directors’ weekends were introduced. This annual tradition not only reinforced team spirit but also honored retired partners. The above picture is from 2003.
Louis Braver became Managing Partner in 1981 and continued to lead the firm until his retirement in 1992.
In a strategic move to expand its global reach and expertise, Anchin joined its first international group of accounting firms at this time, although it is no longer a member of that association. Today, Anchin is an independent member of BKR International, an esteemed association of 160 of the world’s premier independent accounting and business advisory firms, spanning more than 500 offices across 80 countries. This enables us to tap into the collective strength of all of the member firms to take care of our clients overseas and allow other US member firms to serve our clients in areas where we cannot serve them, while we do the same for other firms.
After some time at 270 Madison Avenue, Anchin made a strategic move to 1375 Broadway, where it began on just 1 ½ floors, but swiftly grew its footprint to encompass seven floors. That is Partner Terry Pissi in the picture.
From 1992 to 2000, James Anchin and Eli Cohen were Co-Managing Partners of Anchin, showcasing a collaborative leadership approach.
The merger with Seymour Schneidman & Associates was a strategic decision to bolster our core competencies. Rather than merely expanding in size, Anchin’s focus has always been on deepening our expertise in industries crucial to our clients. This approach has been pivotal in our growth.
Anchin first expanded into India at this time and has continued to grow its presence in the country ever since.
In 2000, James Anchin became Managing Partner, guiding Anchin until his retirement in 2007.
The integration with Yohalem Gillman wasn’t just a merger, but was another strategic union that Anchin identified to bolster our capabilities and serve our clients better.
Frank Schettino took the helm as the Managing Partner of Anchin starting in 2007 and continued in this role until 2020.
This was the first of 16 consecutive years that Anchin was awarded a Best Place to Work in New York State by the Society of Human Resource Management.
The union with H.J. Behrman was another pivotal step in Anchin’s journey. It wasn’t about adding numbers but about deepening the well of knowledge and expertise we offer to our clients.
Assuming leadership as Managing Partner in 2020, Russell B. Shinsky adeptly steered Anchin through the challenges of the pandemic. Under his stewardship, the Firm has pursued strategic expansion with the opening of offices in Uniondale, Long Island and Boca Raton, Florida. Always at the forefront of his agenda has been the commitment to delivering exceptional client service and ensuring the well-being of his Anchin family. This combination of vision and dedication have been paramount in the Firm’s move to 3 Times Square.
Anchin opened its Uniondale, LI office after 98 years of being the largest single-office firm in New York.
In a strategic move to broaden its national presence, Anchin opened a new office in Boca Raton, Florida, further cementing its commitment to serve clients where they are.
Anchin’s Partner meeting minutes in the early days highlighted themes that remain central today: the importance of fostering close client relationships and the quest to consistently deliver creative solutions. The firm’s enduring focus on these principles highlights its unwavering dedication to exceptional client service through the decades.
(Photo L to R: Russell B. Shinsky, Greg Wank, Marc Newman)
Anchin, now with more than 500 employees and more than 60 Partners and Principals, moves its New York headquarters to 3 Times Square in November 2023. Even amid tempting acquisition offers throughout the years, Anchin’s steadfast dedication to independence and exceptional client service has never wavered.