JK Harris Management Team

Working For You Behind The Scenes
Our Tax Team

John K. Harris | Chairman, President & CEO
John K. Harris was born in Charleston, SC, on June 16, 1953, He grew up on a dairy farm on the outskirts of St. Stephen, a little town located in northern Berkeley County, SC. His mother was a schoolteacher for all of her working life, and his father worked for the Federal Government and is currently retired and lives on Lake Moultrie, just north of Moncks Corner, SC.

Mr. Harris attended Carlisle Military School in Bamberg, SC, where he played basketball and baseball and graduated as Salutatorian of his class. After Carlisle, he attended the University of South Carolina and graduated cum laude in 1976 with a degree in History and Political Science. He then received his Master's Degree in Accounting from South Carolina in 1977.

After finishing college, Mr. Harris worked as a Staff Accountant with a firm (Haskins & Sells) which is known today as, DeloitteToucheTomatsua, Certified Public Accountants. From 1980 through 1996, he served in various senior management positions in industry and was sole owner of two construction businesses and part owner of three automobile dealerships.

After deciding to hang his CPA shingle out in 1996, Mr. Harris decided he had to differentiate himself by finding a specialty niche to concentrate in. It happened by chance, when a new accounting client he had just acquired in May of 1996, came to him owing the IRS $90,000. Mr. Harris settled his client's debt for $42,000. It was then that he realized the need for taxpayers to have adequate representation before the IRS.

JK Harris & Company has been in business for more than 11 years, has served over 250,000 clients, and has become the nation's largest tax representation firm.

Questions or Comments?
You may email Mr. Harris directly at johnharris@jkharris.com

Executive Committee Members

Bob Harris | Executive Vice President -- Operations; Board Member
Bob became the Executive Vice President of Operations in August of 2008 and oversees a large staff, which provides tax and financial services to clients. Bob was previously the President of Professional Fee Financing Associates, LLC, and prior to that was the Executive Vice President of Sales at JK Harris & Company where he was responsible for managing and directing the performance of the company's sales team. Bob came to JK Harris in 1998 after spending 10 years with Chrysler Financial Corporation and 16 years as a franchised automobile dealer, with three new car dealerships. Bob, who is a private pilot with instrument rating, was named the Angel Flight Southeast 2004 South Carolina Pilot of the Year. Angel Flight is a non-profit volunteer pilot organization involved in "public benefit flying."

Gene Graham | Executive Vice President -- Sales and Marketing
Gene was named the Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for JK Harris & Company in August of 2008. He is responsible for managing and directing the performance of the company's sales team and is also in charge of the company’s marketing efforts, as well as the Call Center in Florida. He was previously the Executive Vice President of Sales, before adding Marketing and the Call Center to his duties. Gene has been with the company since 2002 and has moved up the ranks like many employees at JK Harris, starting out as a Consultant, then being promoted in 2004 to Regional Manager of the Midwest Region. Gene has been an asset in other parts of the company as well, including our Call Center. Prior to JK Harris, Gene worked for 16 years in the automotive industry, serving in managerial positions. Gene is a 1986 graduate of the University Arkansas where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing and a minor in Computer Science.

Josh Baker | Executive Vice President -- Client Advocacy
Josh joined our team in August of 2004 as Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications. Josh was named Vice President in 2007 and added to his duties the responsibility for the operation of JK Harris’ Call Center in Florida. He was named EVP of Client Advocacy in August of 2008 and oversees the Communications Department as well as the Client Advocacy (Customer Service) Department. Josh came to the company from a Charleston-based technology firm where he was Vice-President and Co-Owner. He has over 20 years experience in public relations, marketing, sales and business operations. After graduating from Winthrop University in 1984 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications, Josh served as the Sports Information Director at The Citadel from 1985-94. While at The Citadel, Josh handled all media relations, marketing and public relations for the Bulldog athletic program. From 1994-2000, Josh worked in life insurance and computer sales.

Oscar Luykenaar | Senior Financial Advisor
Oscar is the Senior Financial Advisor for JK Harris and Company. Hired as the company's Corporate Controller in 1998, Oscar has implemented company-wide financial and administrative processes that have allowed JK Harris to grow into a multi-million dollar, multi-faceted financial services juggernaut in a short time. During Oscar’s tenure, he has had oversight of the Human Resources, Correspondence, Data Entry, Archiving, Accounting, Marketing & Communications, Legal Affairs, Software Development Departments. Oscar had held the position of Executive Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer for nearly six years. Prior to coming on board at JK Harris, Oscar held various accounting and management positions. He holds a Masters in Business Administration (with Honors) from Webster University and a Bachelor of Commerce Degree (Honors) from McMaster University.

Management Team

Greg Bair | Regional Manager -- Pacific West Region
Greg has been with JK Harris & Company since April of 1999. He has moved up the ranks like many employees at JK Harris, starting out as a Consultant, then serving as a Sales Trainer and then stepping up to his current position of Regional Manager in June of 2000. Greg's duties include monitoring performance of his assigned region with respect to established goals and supervising and developing the Consultants who work under him. Prior to JK Harris, Greg worked five years in management for one of the nation's largest beverage distributors and one year as a Commercial Risk Manager for a large insurance agency. Greg is a 1992 graduate of California State University in Chico where he earned a degree in Economics and a minor in Finance.

Bernard Bandish | Senior Vice President -- Financial Services
Bernard, who joined JK Harris & Company in 1999, returned to Financial Services as Senior Vice President in August of 2008. He previously served as Executive Vice President of Financial Services, successfully directing the rapid growth of JK Harris Advisors and Small Business Services and also served as Executive Vice President of Operations from. Bernard has more than 30 years of business experience, including 20 years in the financial services industry. Prior to joining JK Harris, he was a financial planner and corporate trainer for Prudential Financial, Inc. Before that, he was the key advisor on tax and financial matters for the 7,500 employees of a medical university and hospital. Bernard graduated from San Diego State University and completed post-graduate work in Business Administration at The Citadel in Charleston, S.C. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner, a Chartered Financial Consultant, and an Enrolled Agent.

Richard (Rick) Bassak | Vice President -- Information Technology
After a 22-year career with the United States Navy and two years as a Regional Service Manager for a computer services organization, Rick joined JK Harris in 1999 as Network Administrator. During his tenure, Rick has become a trusted and valuable member of our team and currently serves as Vice President for Information Technology. Rick and his staff designed and implemented the JK Harris Wide Area Network, which includes 400 desktop computers, 42 servers, 14 T-1 high-speed telecommunication lines and three phone systems. While serving his country, Rick held numerous positions in electronics, including an assignment as the Automated Data Processing Security Officer. Rick holds numerous Certificates and Certifications with Iwatsu, Novel, Citrix and Microsoft.

Robert Borum | Regional Manager -- Tennessee Valley Region
Robert has been with JK Harris & Company since 1998. He has moved up the ranks like many employees at JK Harris, starting out as a Consultant and then moving into his current position in 1999. Robert's duties include monitoring the performance of his assigned region with respect to established goals and supervising and developing the Consultants who work for him. Prior to JK Harris, Robert was a sales manager for 10 years and was self-employed for two years. Robert is a 1985 graduate of Clemson University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration.

Vicki Gorin | Vice President -- Human Resources

Vicki serves JK Harris & Company as Vice President of Human Resources. She has been with the company since April 2003, first serving as a Human Resource Coordinator, then as Human Resource Manager in late 2003 and finally to Vice President of Human Resources in mid 2004. Vicki is responsible for implementing and maintaining Human Resource policies and procedures as well as managing and assisting in employee retention for three affiliate divisions and 500 employees of JKH Holding Co, LLC. Prior to joining JK Harris, Vicki was a Human Resource Manager for more than 10 years for a Professional Employer Organization. Prior to that, she held a number of increasingly responsible management positions within the hospitality industry. Vicki was certified as a Professional in Human Resources by the Society for Human Resource Management in 1994.

Ralph Havens | Vice President -- Professional Services
Ralph was tabbed Vice President of Professional Services in August of 2008. He was named the Director of Professional Services in June of 2007 after joining the company in August of 2003. Ralph reports to EVP of Operations Bob Harris. He is responsible for JKH's respected LTR group, consisting mostly of Enrolled Agents, attorneys and CPAs. In addition, Ralph also heads up the company's Audit Representation, Tax Preparation and E-file Departments. Ralph has been an Enrolled Agent for the past 14 years. He received a degree in Business Management from Genesee (NY) College and is a native of Buffalo, NY. Prior to coming to JK Harris, Ralph served as District Manager for Jackson Hewitt's Company offices from Buffalo to Boston. He also owned and operated a very successful H&R Block franchise in New York State prior to his association with Jackson Hewitt. Ralph's experience also includes working with an accounting firm where he handled a wide range of tax forms to include Corporations, Partnerships and Individual returns. Ralph's special area of concentration is in audit representation.

Craig Klemm | Vice President -- Software Development

Craig came to JK Harris & Company in 1998 as an independent consultant to design and develop JK Harris' first client-server Case Management System. A year later, John Harris invited Craig aboard as the Director of Software Development to help the company achieve its lofty growth projections. He is responsible for the design, development, implementation and management of all software development projects for JK Harris and Company. The original Case Management System software that Craig began work on has now evolved into a fully developed Accounting - ERP software solution for JK Harris & Company and all of its affiliates. Craig received his BSBA with a major in Computer Information Systems from Appalachian State University. Craig has more than 15 years of computer programming experience including more than seven years at a local prominent software company where he served in various capacities ranging from software maintenance to project management.

William Lawitzke | Vice President -- JK Harris Small Business Services, LLC

Bill was named Vice President of JK Harris Small Business Services, LLC, in January of 2008. He began his stint with JK Harris in 2003 in Small Business Services as an Accounting Specialist and was promoted to Supervisor early in 2007. He became an Enrolled Agent in 2007. Prior to coming to JK Harris, he was a Comptroller with two other companies. Bill attended the University of Michigan and the University of Detroit, majoring in Business Administration with a concentration on accounting.

Monica Linder | Vice President -- Legal Affairs & Special Assistant to the CEO

Monica is JK Harris & Company's Vice-President of Legal Affairs and was named Special Assistant to the CEO in September of 2007. She and her staff are responsible for overseeing and coordinating all legal issues involving the company and its employees. As Special Assistant to the CEO, Monica will work closely with John Harris in the daily activities of the company. Monica has worn several hats at JK Harris, and like many employees with the company, has been promoted through the ranks. Monica's 12 years of experience in the Customer Service arena allowed her to establish and manage our Problem Resolution Office in May of 2000. After two years of leading the Office, she was promoted to our Director or Legal Affairs. Monica has been listed "Who's Who Among American Executives" and is a member of the National Association of Female Executives. She earned a Bachelor's degree from the University of South Carolina in Advertising and Public Relations. She will have her Masters of Business Administration in the Fall of 2007 and plans to attend Charleston School of Law in the Fall of 2008.

Scott MacLeod | Vice President -- Call Center Operations
Scott was recently promoted to Vice President of Call Center Operations in Delray Beach., Fla., after having served as the Call Center’s Director. He came to JK Harris as a customer service agent in October of 2001 in our Tax Resolution Division and then was named a Trainer and Supervisor in 2003. In October of 2004, he was selected to be a Director in our Call Center for JK Harris Financial Recovery Systems. Scott is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Call Center, which receives more than 500,000 calls a year from prospective customers. Scott worked for two large national companies prior to coming aboard JK Harris from 1993-2001. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and International Trade from Florida Atlantic University.

Bob J. Mickey | Technical Advisor Emeritus, Retired
After his 30-year career with the IRS, Bob retired to Charleston, S.C., and began his own small practice as an Enrolled Agent representing individuals and businesses before the IRS. After closing his business, Bob came to work at JK Harris & Company. During Bob's career with the IRS, he served in numerous management positions retiring as Division Chief of Collection for the Tennessee District. While working with the IRS, he was able to obtain valuable experience in the operations in the Criminal and Audit Divisions. Bob earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from High Point College (High Point, N.C.).

Mark Monaghan, SPHR, MA | Senior Vice President -- Human Resources
After distinguishing himself in various capacities with the JK Harris and Company, Mark returned to our Human Resources Department where he now serves as Senior Vice President. Mark was previously EVP of Tax Resolution Services, being named to the post by John Harris in May of 2005. Mark served one year as JK Harris' Executive Vice President of Call Center Operations and Marketing in Delray Beach, Fla. Prior to his stint in Florida, Mark served four years as the company's Vice President for Human Resources. Before joining JK Harris, Mark spent eight years with Outback Steakhouse, including three years as a Managing Partner, and later as Director of Operations for International Water Makers, Inc. Mark received a degree in Telecommunications from the University of Florida in 1989. He earned a Masters Degree in Human Resource Development and Management from Webster University in 2002 and also holds the prestigious SPHR certification, a nationally recognized Senior Level HR credential.

Christy Pepper | Vice President -- Primary Tax Services
Christy was named Vice President for JK Harris' Primary Tax Services in August 2008 and reports to EVP of Operations Bob Harris. She oversees six Offer in Compromise Teams as well as the High Liability Installment Agreement Team and Student Loan Team. She is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the quality of client services, unit production, and all practices and procedures. Like many managers at JK Harris, Christy has risen through the ranks of the company. She started at JK Harris in 1998 as a Case Specialist. She served in various capacities with the company until 2003 when she became a Supervisor for the Tax Resolution East Division. Upon a highly successful stint as a Supervisor, Christy was then promoted to Director of the West Division in February of 2004. In May, Christy assumed her current position as Director. Prior to JK Harris, Christy was a Customer Service Representative and Legal Secretary. She holds an Associates degree in Accounting and a Bachelors Degree in Business Management.

Eric Peterson | Regional Manager -- South-Mideast Region

Eric serves as the Regional Manager of the South-Mideast Region for JK Harris & Company. Eric came to the company as a Consultant in 1998. He was promoted to Regional Manager in July of 2004. He is responsible for the performance of our consultants in a nine-state territory. Prior to coming to JK Harris, Eric spent nine years in the hospitality industry. A native of Long Beach, Calif., Eric is a 1993 graduate of California State University (Chico) where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Administration and minored in Geography.

David Reynolds | Regional Manager -- Northeast Region

David is in his fourth year at JK Harris & Company. He is the company's Regional Manager for the Northeast Region, encompassing nine states and overseeing 10 Consultants. David is responsible for the sales performance of Consultants in his region and also serves as one of the company's official Consultant trainers. David came to JK Harris in February 2003 after more than 20 years in sales management, including a position as Regional Sales Manager for a Fortune 500 company. In addition, he has owned three businesses during his professional career.

Chris Rossini | Regional Manager -- In House
Chris has been with JK Harris and Company since Sept. 2003. Like many employees he advanced through the ranks, starting as an Appointment Setter and moving up to Consultant and Supervisor before taking over his current position of In House Regional Manager in April 2007. Chris’ duties include maintaining daily, weekly, monthly and annual sales goals, hiring and training of new Consultants, as well as assisting his Consultants in speaking with JK Harris clients. Prior to coming to JK Harris, Chris managed a restaurant in Knoxville, Tenn., and was owner/operator of Rossini’s Cleaning Service, also in Knoxville. He holds a degree in Finance from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville.

Kelly L. Scott, EA, CPLP | Vice President -- Client Advocacy and Training
Kelly was named the Vice President of Client Advocacy and Training in August 2008, after having served as Director of Training and Customer Service since June 2007. She is responsible for the Client Advocacy (customer service) and Training and also oversees the company receptionists. She reports directly to Josh Baker, EVP of Client Advocacy, and is currently responsible for all of the company’s new hire, mentoring and continuing education programs, which includes the coordination of in-house and external Continuing Professional Education (CPE) courses for our staff of Licensed Taxpayer Representatives. She joined the company in March of 1998 as an Administrative Assistant and worked her way through the ranks as a Case Specialist, Supervisor, Assistant Director of Operations and Director of Operations. In January 2004 she was appointed Training Coordinator. Kelly is a graduate of Southern Wesleyan University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. She recently earned her Enrolled Agent card and is a Certified Professional in Learning and Performance. She is a member of the American Society for Training and Development, the National Association of Enrolled Agents, the National Association of Tax Professionals, and the South Carolina Tax Council.

Suzanne Scott | Vice President -- Special Tax Services
Suzanne was named the Vice President of the JK Harris Special Tax Services in August 2008 and reports to EVP of Operations Bob Harris. She oversees the Special Assistance Group, Emergency Management Team, Abatement of Penalties Team, Currently Not Collectible Team and Low Liability Installment Team. Like many managers at JK Harris, Suzanne has risen through the ranks of the company and has served various positions for the company. She started at JK Harris in 1998 as an Administrative Assistant. She went on to serve as a Case Specialist and a Supervisor until being named the Director of QAD in January of 2005 and Director of Special Tax Services in June of 2007. Prior to joining JK Harris, Suzanne was the Head Customer Service Manager for a local Wal-Mart store. Suzanne holds an Associates Degree from Trident Technical College. She recently earned her Enrolled Agent card and is an Associate Member of the National Association of Enrolled Agents.

Sally Watson | Vice President & Corporate Controller

Sally Watson joined JK Harris & Company in 1998 while still in college. Like many at the company, she has worked her way through the ranks and was named JK Harris & Company's Corporate Controller in May 2005 and Vice President in September of 2007. Sally is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the accounting department and will report directly to John Harris. Prior to being named Controller, Sally served the company in various capacities including Director of the East Division in Tax Resolution where she oversaw a 75-employee division, Supervisor, Case Specialist and Training Assistant. From 1999-2001, Sally served as the Plant Accountant for a large furniture manufacturer in High Point, N.C., before returning to JK Harris. She also worked as legal assistant in a Mount Pleasant, S.C., law firm from 1996-98. Sally is a 1998 graduate of the College of Charleston where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting.

JK Harris Management Team

Working For You Behind The Scenes Our Tax Team

Working For You Behind The Scenes
Our Tax Team