Jim Christian: Builder of Expertise, and Mentor of Leaders

Celebrating the legacy of a partner whose vision and steady leadership helped shape one of Jones & Roth’s most enduring strengths.

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A Foundation Built on Family, Community, and a Deep Respect for the Profession

Jim Christian’s connection to Jones & Roth began long before he joined the firm. After graduating from Southern Oregon University with an accounting degree, he stepped directly into his family’s business in Springfield — where Jones & Roth had long served as the trusted CPA firm.

Even then, Jim recognized something exceptional: a firm grounded in independence, trusted by generations of families and businesses, and committed to doing things the right way.

He didn’t yet know that this firm would become central to his own professional story.

Gaining Expertise — and Discovering a Niche

After earning his MBA from Portland State University, Jim joined regional CPA firm Yergen & Meyer. It was there that he began working closely with construction companies and general contractors — experience that would one day become the cornerstone of his impact at Jones & Roth.

Jim later returned to Springfield to serve as controller of the family business. When industry changes and family transitions signaled a new chapter, he turned to Doug Griesel — who had long supported the family’s tax and accounting work — for advice on potential controller roles in the community.

Doug had another idea: “Why not come back to public accounting?”

Joining Jones & Roth — and Finding the Perfect Fit

Jim joined Jones & Roth on February 1, 1991, jumping straight into busy season. His construction-industry background aligned perfectly with the work Partner Mike Lewis was building. Mike saw in Jim not only technical skill, but the kind of steady, collaborative leadership that strengthens teams and supports long-term client relationships.

Together, Jim and Mike developed what would grow into one of the firm’s largest and strongest niches: the Construction Niche.

Strengthening What Makes Jones & Roth Distinct

Jim helped reinforce and expand values that remain central to the firm today:

• Independence, through building a niche grounded in deep expertise and long-term vision
• People-first leadership, by mentoring emerging professionals and investing in future partners
• Community commitment, by supporting local contractors and helping strengthen regional industries
• Client value, through practical, trusted tax, assurance, and advisory support tailored to real-world challenges

Jim embodied the belief that when you build people, you build a stronger firm — and a stronger community.

A Partner Known for Steadiness, Insight, and Heart

Jim became a partner in 2004 and thrived in the collaborative, people-centered culture of the partner group. He valued the firm’s independence, its commitment to supporting clients through changing markets, and its dedication to helping team members grow into their strengths.

Among those he mentored were current partners Carrie Fortier and Evan Dickens, both of whom credit Jim with shaping not only their technical development but their approach to leadership.

Carrie Fortier reflects on Jim’s example both inside and outside the office:

“I was fortunate to work for a great boss who always brought a positive attitude to every situation. He was supportive, encouraging, and genuinely cared about the people around him. One of my favorite memories was running Hood to Coast with him. He was always a great sport about taking on the long, difficult legs of the race so I could run the shorter ones. That selfless attitude was a perfect reflection of who he was—someone who never hesitated to shoulder a little extra to help others. I will always remember his positivity, generosity, and the example he set both professionally and personally.”

Evan recalls Jim as a calm, even-keeled presence — someone who could help maintain perspective during stressful times and who always paired technical precision with genuine care for people. His influence helped strengthen a culture where integrity, excellence, and compassion guide decision-making.

Leadership Beyond the Firm

Jim’s impact extended well beyond Jones & Roth. He volunteered with organizations including Hayward Field and the Thurston Life Foundation, driven by his belief that strong communities and strong businesses grow together. His commitment to service reflected the same principles he brought to the firm: show up, support others, and make a positive impact.

A Well‑Earned Retirement — And a Legacy That Endures

Today, Jim and his wife Heidi are enjoying retirement — traveling, spending time with their grandchildren, and embracing a new chapter filled with family and adventure.

But his presence is still felt throughout the firm.
In the Construction Practice he helped build.
In the partners and team members he mentored.
And in the culture he strengthened — one grounded in independence, deep expertise, authenticity, and unwavering care for people.

Jim didn’t just build a niche;
he helped build a firm where people, clients, and community all thrive.