Isenberg Accounting Alumnus of the Year: Peter Resnick '93

When Peter Resnick ’93 began working in forensic accounting early in his career, the field was up and coming, with a small number of firms working in the discipline of investigating financial fraud. 

Seizing an opportunity to become a leader in a growing field, Resnick—this year’s Accounting Alumnus of the Year—worked hard, following a career path that led him to his current role as vice president of forensic accounting at Charles River Associates (CRA) in Boston.

“Today, there are many large firms that focus on forensic accounting and expert witness-related work,” Resnick said. “It doesn’t feel like a small cottage industry anymore.”

Resnick began his career as an auditor at Ernst & Young after graduating from the Isenberg School of Management. In 1996, he began working in forensic accounting at Arthur Andersen, where he stayed until 2002. Resnick then served as managing director for Huron Consulting Group until 2010, when he became a partner in forensic and valuation services at Grant Thornton, before moving into his current position at CRA in 2017.

“I’m often dealing with clients when they’re at their worst moments,” Resnick said. “But we help guide them through the process in a way that hopefully eases their concerns.”

At CRA, Resnick leads high-profile cases of fraud investigation, business damages, and valuation. He has an active practice at CRA, performing corporate and government investigations and giving expert witness testimony in business litigation cases.

Resnick sees the Accounting Alumnus of the Year award as an incredible honor, especially since many of his mentors, colleagues, and friends are previous recipients.

“I’m in good company, and I know what they’ve all done for the university,” he said. “Being recognized along with them means a lot to me.”

When looking back at his time at UMass, Resnick recalls a welcoming environment that helped prepare him for a rewarding career. 

“When I would go back after graduation, all of my professors remembered me,” he said. “They wanted to know how I was doing and how their classes impacted my ability to be successful.”

Resnick now assists current accounting students and young professionals whenever he can, whether sharing industry insights or helping them with their networking efforts. He also serves on boards like the Accounting Advisory Council.

“It’s about community, and recognizing how you can give back,” Resnick said. “My teachers gave me a lot of encouragement and support, so I think it’s important to appreciate that, keep it close, remember it, and try to do the same for others.”