October 9, 2024

(LOS ANGELES, October 9, 2024) — James (Jim) S. Carlin, co-founder and senior tax partner of HCVT, Los Angeles’ largest, locally based public accounting firm, passed away Wednesday, September 18, firm officials announced today. He was 66.

Together, with Phil Holthouse and John Van Trigt, Carlin co-founded HCVT in 1991. Together, they built a firm distinguished by its technical excellence, client-centered approach, and its people-focused culture.

A life-long resident of Los Angeles, Carlin earned his bachelor's degree in economics from UCLA and his master’s in business taxation from the University of Southern California.

“Jim was the consummate partner,” said Vicken Haleblian, CEO and Managing Partner of HCVT. “He was always available to provide perspective and insight on positioning the firm for continued success. Above all, he was a great human being and a devoted father—qualities that truly define success,” said Haleblian.

Carlin’s most enduring legacy, according to Holthouse, was his client-centric approach.

“When we first envisioned creating a firm of our own, we agreed that the firm philosophy would be centered around the client experience. It’s an approach that sets our firm apart today and serves as a lasting legacy for everyone – most especially clients,” said Chairman and Co-Founder Philip Holthouse. “Losing Jim so suddenly and unexpectedly is incredibly difficult for everyone—his family, friends, clients, and our firm.”  

Beyond his professional achievements, Carlin was deeply committed to giving back to the community. Last year, National Jewish Health recognized Jim with the prestigious Humanitarian Award for his decade-long volunteer service, fundraising efforts, and role as a dedicated committee member.

Carlin was also an active alumni brother of Zeta Beta Tau—Alpha Rho Chapter, where he supported the fraternity for many decades and was a leading supporter of Campaign for Alpha Rho, which helped fund the complete remodel and 2024 reopening of the existing fraternity house at UCLA. 

Carlin is survived by his wife Janelle, two children, and three grandchildren.

Gifts in his memory may be made to National Jewish Health at www.njhealth.org/jimcarlin.

For more information, contact:
Cheryl Foster, Chief Growth Officer
Cheryl.Foster@hcvt.com
(310) 566-1993

About HCVT

HCVT is the largest, Los Angeles-based public accounting firm and the 33rd largest firm nationally. Founded in 1991, HCVT provides tax, advisory and business management services to public and closely held companies; high-net-worth individuals and families and their related entities; and family offices. The firm also provides audit and assurance services to privately held companies and employee benefit plan sponsors.

Known for its deep technical skills and ability to address the most complex tax issues associated with partnerships and pass-through entities, HCVT serves clients across a number of industries, including: private equity, real estate, media and entertainment, manufacturing, retail and distribution, technology, healthcare and life sciences, nonprofit organizations, affordable housing and professional services firms.

With more than 800 team members, which include over 100 partners and principals, HCVT serves clients from 12 offices. Including its headquarters in West Los Angeles, HCVT has eight locations in Southern California (Camarillo, Encino, Glendale, Irvine, Long Beach, Monrovia, Pasadena, and Westlake Village); and offices in Fort Worth, Texas; Park City, Utah; and Phoenix, Arizona. The firm’s national and global reach is extended by its affiliation with Moore North America, Inc. (MNA) and Moore Global Network Limited, an independent and global accountancy and business advisory network of CPA and financial services firms located throughout the United States and around the globe. Visit hcvt.com, to learn more.