In addition to representing privately held companies in transactions and as counsel, Bob also advises startup companies and established businesses interested in pursuing debt and equity funding to fuel their growth and expansion.
Leveraging firsthand in-house experience as general counsel to a multibillion-dollar foodservice distribution business with operations in the U.S. and Canada, Bob is a seasoned counselor who helps clients drive strategic development and lead change within their organizations. His industry experience is diverse and includes representing enterprises engaged in the oil and gas exploration, energy conservation, biofuels, office furniture, food distribution and automotive industries.
A consensus builder and effective negotiator, Bob seeks to understand all points of view and the why behind each constituent’s position and reasoning. This helps him to solve problems and negotiate desired results for his clients. An active listener who is smart and empathetic, Bob works diligently to weigh options and help his clients make the decisions needed to realize their objectives.
Professional and Community Involvement
Board member, World Affairs Council of Western Michigan
Past board member and president, Association for Corporate Growth West Michigan
Member, American Bar Association Section of Taxation (Committee on S Corporations; Committee on Closely-Held Businesses; and Pass-Through Entity Task Force)
Member, American Bar Association Section of Business Law (Committee on Negotiated Acquisitions)
Former chair and current member, State Bar of Michigan Taxation Section
Member, State Bar of Michigan Agricultural Law Section
Member, State Bar of Michigan Business Law Section
Member, Grand Rapids Bar Association
Adjunct professor, Graduate Tax Program, Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University
Honors
Crain's Grand Rapids, West Michigan’s 200 Most Influential Leaders, 2023-2024
Grand Rapids Magazine Top Lawyers, 2022-2024
Grand Rapids Business Journal's Notable West Michigan Lawyers, 2023
Michigan Super Lawyers, 2008-2009
The Best Lawyers in America, 2008-2025; Lawyer of the Year, 2017, 2025
Chambers USA, 2018-2019
Leading Lawyers, 2016-2025