The Retirement of Managing Partner R. John Jones

As Linkenheimer LLP approaches a significant transition, we honor the remarkable career of our Managing Partner, R. John Jones, who will retire in July 2025. John’s journey with our firm began in May 1977, immediately after graduating with honors and distinction from Sonoma State University. He became a partner in January 1983 and assumed the role of Managing Partner in July 1986. Over nearly five decades, John’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in shaping the firm’s success and fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration and trust. 

A Pillar of Professional Excellence 

Throughout his tenure, John has exemplified professional excellence and relationships, guiding clients through complex financial landscapes. His expertise encompasses forecasting, budgeting, feasibility studies, mergers and acquisitions, lender financing, succession planning, compensation planning, along with income and estate tax planning. John’s strategic insights and dedication have been invaluable to our clients and have set a high standard within the accounting profession. 

Championing Community and Global Service 

John’s impact extends far beyond the office. A native of Sonoma County, he has been deeply involved in the local community, serving as Past President of a local Rotary Club and Chairman of the Board of Elders at St. Mark Lutheran Church. His commitment to service is perhaps most evident in his international humanitarian efforts. For over two decades, John has led bi-annual missions to countries including Mexico, Haiti, Guatemala, Samoa, Vietnam, and Nicaragua, providing free eye care clinics to underserved populations. Through these missions, he has personally examined over 20,000 individuals, offering essential eye care services and improving countless lives. 

In Nicaragua’s Río San Juan region, John spearheaded the construction of a surgery center in the village of Sabalos. Completed in 2017, this facility provides advanced diagnostics and surgical services to approximately 30,000 residents in this remote area. John’s leadership in this project exemplifies his dedication to sustainable, impactful community service. 

Leadership Within the Profession 

John’s influence within the accounting profession is profound. He has served as Past President of the California Group of Accounting Firms and as Chairman of Alliott Group Worldwide, fostering collaboration, relationships and building trust among accounting professionals globally. In recognition of his outstanding public service, John was honored with the CalCPA Public Service Award and featured on the cover of the August 2016 CalCPA magazine. 

Cultivating a Culture of Trust and Inspiration 

At Linkenheimer LLP, John has led a culture rooted in approachability, care, and teamwork. He emphasizes open communication, mutual respect, trust and continuous professional development, creating an environment where both staff and clients thrive. His leadership has not only inspired our team but has also set a benchmark for other CPA firms aiming to build a culture of trust and excellence. The firm’s cultural evolution into one of the North Bay’s Best Places to Work (13 years in a row) might be his proudest achievement. He has always understood that people are the cornerstone of our firm and has endeavored to take care of and invest in not just the team, but also their families.  

Looking Ahead: Welcoming Carli Ortiz as Managing Partner 

As we celebrate John’s extraordinary legacy, we are pleased to announce that Carli Ortiz will assume the role of Managing Partner in July 2025. Carli joined Linkenheimer in 2011 and became the firm’s first female partner in 2015. Her expertise in family-owned businesses, individual taxation, estate and trust planning, and strategic succession planning has been invaluable. Recognized among the North Bay Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 and honored with the AICPA Standing Ovation Award, Carli embodies the values and vision that define Linkenheimer LLP. 

As we transition into this new chapter, we remain committed to the principles that John has instilled in us. We look forward to continued growth and success under Carli’s leadership, honoring the foundation laid by John Jones. 

Please join us in celebrating John’s illustrious career and welcoming Carli into her new role. We are confident that, with your support, Linkenheimer LLP will continue to thrive and uphold our mission of being a partner in our clients’ success.Â