Robin Matthews: Innovator, Mentor, and Champion for People and Possibilities

Celebrating the legacy of a partner who transformed services, shaped leaders, and expanded what was possible at Jones & Roth.

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A Unique Path Fueled by Curiosity, Courage, and Growth 

Robin Matthews’ career at Jones & Roth began in a way that reflected who she is at her core: thoughtful, intentional, and committed to finding the right balance for her family and her future. She joined the firm part time while raising young children, building trust and strong relationships along the way. 

After eight years, ready for a new challenge, Robin shifted her focus, moved into a full-time role, and set her sights on a fast path to partner. She embraced each step with humility and determination — growing, learning, and, as she always emphasizes, “making mistakes and getting better because of them.” 

Throughout her journey, Robin appreciated something special about Jones & Roth: a firm big enough to offer resources and opportunities, yet small enough to collaborate, adapt, and bring the partner group along with new initiatives. That blend of scale and agility energized her — and ultimately opened the door for one of her most significant contributions. 

Launching Wealth Management: An Idea Ahead of Its Time 

In the early 2000s, when CPA firms were first allowed to receive commissions, Robin saw possibility. She championed the idea of adding wealth management to Jones & Roth’s services, believing deeply in the value it could bring to clients. 

Building something entirely new wasn’t easy — there was no roadmap. But Robin thrived in that environment. She launched the service from scratch, leaned into learning, and shaped a strategic vision that balanced client service, regulatory requirements, and long-term impact. 

Today, she is proud of what that seed has become: a thriving, successful practice that enables clients to coordinate their long-term financial plans directly with their CPA and tax advisor. 

As Managing Partner Evan Dickens reflected: 

“Robin’s incredibly sharp focus on whatever she put her mind to was instrumental to the growth of our firm. Neither our CPA firm nor our financial advisory firm would be where they are without her commitment to do everything excellent.” 

Robin has countless stories of clients whose lives and futures were strengthened because of that coordinated, holistic approach. 

The Power of Mentorship: Phil Stice and a Pivotal Lesson 

Robin speaks with great appreciation for Phil Stice, her mentor and one of the most influential figures in her career. Phil helped her identify and strengthen areas for improvement in a way that was both honest and deeply supportive. 

She remembers a moment early in her career when she made a mistake on one of Phil’s clients. Stressed, she went straight to him for guidance. 

Phil asked her a simple question: 

“What’s the right thing to do?” 

When she answered, “Call the client,” he replied: 

“Then go do that — and make it right.” 

Phil’s calm presence, thoughtful feedback, and ability to find humor in any situation shaped Robin’s leadership style. She carried those lessons forward and, in turn, became a mentor to many others.

Leading by Example: Championing People, Strengths, and Non-Traditional Paths 

Having walked a non-traditional path herself, Robin became a role model — especially for women and for team members who didn’t see themselves fitting a conventional mold. 

She encouraged people who were reluctant to step forward for leadership roles. She saw the whole person. And she helped shift the firm’s definition of what leadership looks like. 

Where the profession once emphasized only “who can bring in work,” Robin championed a broader definition of value: 

• deep technical expertise 
• strong people development skills 
• thoughtful collaboration 
• authenticity 
• balance 
• and the willingness to grow 

Her influence helped the partner group appreciate the full spectrum of strengths across the firm — and helped many professionals see possibilities in themselves they hadn’t considered before. 

Robin is grateful for colleagues who supported her along the way, including Gary Kronmiller, whose steady encouragement meant a great deal, and Jill Foster, the firm’s first woman partner, whose example created space for others to follow.

A Legacy of Partnership, Vision, and Shared Leadership 

Tricia Duncan remembers clearly that she and Robin had very different styles — and that it took time to work out the kinks. But once they did, they became a remarkably effective team, complementing one another’s strengths and pushing the firm forward with shared purpose. 

They worked side by side on the management and executive teams, driving initiatives that supported nontraditional career paths and created opportunities for professionals who brought diverse strengths to the table. Their collaboration, trust, and mutual respect helped strengthen the culture the firm enjoys today. 

Colleagues like Nicole McOmber and Anna Hamilton credit Robin’s encouragement and confidence-building guidance as instrumental in their own leadership journeys. 

Evan Dickens reflects on Robin’s lasting impact: 

“I knew that she would never accept anything less than the best for our firm, and it’s been an honor to lead the firm after her legacy.” 

Retiring in 2024 — And Continuing to Contribute 

Robin officially retired as partner in 2024, closing a remarkable 34-year chapter of leadership, innovation, and mentorship. But she wasn’t quite ready to step away completely. 

True to her commitment to quality and excellence, Robin continues to work part-time with the tax department, supporting quality control and sharing her expertise with the next generation. It is meaningful work — quiet, steady, and deeply impactful — that aligns perfectly with her lifelong dedication to helping others succeed. 

A Lasting Impact 

Robin’s legacy at Jones & Roth is one of innovation, empowerment, and unwavering belief in people. She helped the firm expand its services, broaden its definition of leadership, and create more pathways for talented professionals to thrive. 

Her influence lives on — in the wealth management practice she built, in the leaders she mentored, and in the culture she helped shape. 

“Robin didn’t just build something new — she made it possible for others to build their futures, too.”