News

Dannible & McKee Appoints First Principals in Firm History

Dannible & McKee, LLP, a leading certified public accounting and consulting firm, today announced the appointment of Danielle P. Makowiec, PHR, SHRM-CP, CEBS, and Jennifer G. Whalen as the firm’s first principals, marking a significant milestone in the firm’s 48-year history.

The newly established principal role reflects Dannible & McKee’s continued growth and commitment to developing leadership across all areas of the organization. Created to recognize exceptional professionals who drive strategic initiatives, operational excellence and long-term business success, principals serve at a leadership level comparable to partners while bringing specialized expertise that supports the firm’s future growth.

The introduction of the role represents an evolution in the firm’s leadership structure and creates new opportunities to recognize professionals whose impact extends beyond traditional CPA career paths.

“As our firm continues to grow, it is important that our leadership team evolves alongside it,” said Victor W. Vaccaro, Jr., CPA/ABV, CFF, managing partner of Dannible & McKee. “Danielle and Jennifer have each made a tremendous impact on our organization through their leadership and commitment to excellence. Their appointments reflect the critical role they play in supporting our people, strengthening our culture and helping position the firm for continued success.”

Makowiec has been appointed Principal of Human Resources. Since joining the firm in 2022, she has led key initiatives in talent acquisition and retention, career development, performance management, compensation and benefits and HR compliance across all office locations. With more than a decade of human resource experience, Makowiec has helped drive consistent programs and policies that support the firm’s culture, growth and long-term talent strategy.

Makowiec is a Professional in Human Resources (PHR), a Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS). She earned a bachelor’s degree in human resource management from the State University of New York at Oswego and a master’s degree in human resource development from Villanova University. Makowiec resides in Baldwinsville, N.Y. and works in the firm’s Syracuse office.

Whalen has been appointed Principal of Marketing and Business Development. Since joining the firm in 2016, she has played a key role in advancing the firm’s growth through strategic marketing, business development and client acquisition initiatives. Her leadership has helped enhance the firm’s visibility, strengthen its brand and support expansion across multiple markets.

In addition to overseeing marketing and communications efforts for both Dannible & McKee and DM Consulting Group, Whalen leads internal communications and employer-branding initiatives that support recruitment, retention and employee engagement. She has 30 years of marketing and business development experience, holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Cazenovia College and is a graduate of the CenterState CEO Executive Leadership Development, Class of 2025. She resides in Cazenovia, N.Y. and is based in the firm’s Syracuse office.

“The creation of the principal role recognizes that leadership takes many forms,” added Vaccaro. “Danielle and Jennifer have each made lasting contributions to our firm’s success, and we are proud to recognize their achievements through this important new leadership designation.”

The appointments underscore Dannible & McKee’s ongoing investment in leadership development and position the firm for continued growth in years ahead.