Stephen W. Baylis

CPA

CVA CITP MBA

Managing Partner

Steve is the managing partner of the Firm and is responsible for its day-to-day operation. A graduate of the University of South Florida with an advanced degree business administration and finance, Steve has extensive experience in management consulting, business valuations, litigation support, and computer services and directs the Firm's activities in these areas.

As a Certified Valuation Analyst, Steve has directed and participated in the valuation, purchase, and sale of various business organizations, including medical, dental, construction, and professional practices. He is qualified as an Expert Witness in Florida’s 10th Judicial Circuit and provides litigation support services to legal counsel.

Steve has also overseen the implementation of computerized accounting and data processing systems for a variety of business organizations, including distributors, manufacturing plants, professional service firms and contractors. As a Certified Information Technology Professional and CEO of Cipher Integrations, an affiliated technology company, he is works closely with clients in all aspects of their business information needs.

Steve has participated in leadership positions in many local and community organizations and has s erved as a staff instructor at Florida Southern College teaching intermediate and advanced accounting and finance subjects.

Education and Certifications

  • Master of Business Administration, Emphasis in Finance, University of South Florida
  • Bachelor of Arts, Accounting and Finance, University of South Florida
  • Certified Public Accountant, licensed by the State of Florida
  • Certified Value Analyst
  • Certified Information Technology Professional

Professional & Community Affiliations

  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
  • Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants
  • National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts
  • Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society
  • Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society
  • Leadership Lakeland III, Lakeland Chamber of Commerce
  • Leadership Lakeland Alumni Association, Board Member
  • Good Shepherd Hospice, Inc. – Past Chairman and Treasurer
  • Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Polk County, Inc., Past President
  • United Way of Central Florida Budget and Allocations Committee, Past Member
  • GTE Community Advisory Panel, Past Member
  • University of South Florida, Business Advisory Council Lakeland, Past Member
  • Chamber of Commerce, Effective Criminal Justice Task Force, Past Member Citizens Police Academy Graduate
  • Lakeland City Baseball Leagues, Inc., Past Treasurer
  • Polk Businesses for World Class Education - Member, Past Board Member
  • Polk Theater, Inc. - Past Treasurer
  • Lakeland Margarita Society Board of Directors (Charitable)
  • Bryant Stadium Restoration Committee, Treasurer