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Christopher Cowan

Partner, Assurance

Christopher is a Partner at Wiss and leads the firm’s Construction and Engineering Industry Practice. He works closely with general contractors, specialty trade contractors, construction managers, civil and infrastructure firms, real estate developers, and engineering companies — providing strategic guidance that goes well beyond financial reporting. With deep industry experience, Christopher understands the operational challenges, market cycles, and growth dynamics unique to companies that build, design, and develop.

Clients rely on Christopher for clear, actionable insight to support long-term success — whether optimizing job costing analysis, revenue recognition under ASC 606, surety bonding considerations, or leveraging emerging technologies like AI to improve forecasting, operational efficiency, and decision-making. He is known for building strong relationships with construction and development executives, sureties, lenders, and attorneys, often serving as a strategic connector across a client’s advisory team.

As a key member of the firm’s Construction Services leadership, Christopher has been instrumental in developing Wiss’ specialized approach to the industry — blending deep technical expertise with real-world industry insight. He regularly collaborates with sureties, bankers, and attorneys to help clients strengthen their financial position and mitigate risk in competitive bidding environments. His forward-looking mindset includes advising clients on how tools like AI and data analytics can create competitive advantages in a traditionally hands-on industry.

Christopher is valued not only for his industry knowledge, but also for his hands-on, relationship-first approach. He serves as a trusted partner to business owners and leadership teams seeking clarity, confidence, and a competitive edge in a demanding and dynamic industry.

Education

BS – Accounting
Richard Stockton College

Upstream Academy Emerging Leaders Academy

Certifications

Certified Public Accountant in New Jersey

Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional

Construction Risk and Insurance Specialist

Professional Affiliations

Construction Financial Management Association

New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants

American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

New Jersey Builders Association and the Shore Builders Association of Central New Jersey

Utilities & Transportation Contractors Association

Institute of Certified Construction Industry Financial Professionals

New Jersey Builders Association – Board Member

Shore Builders Association of Central New Jersey – Board Member

Accomplishments

  • 2020 NJCPA “Impact” Ovation Award
  • 2019 National Association of Home Builders “Associate One to Watch”,
  • 2019 National Association of Home Builders “Young Professional of the Year”
  • 2018 Shore Builders Association of Central New Jersey “Associate of the Year”

In 2011, Chris was named to the first 30 Under 30 list compiled by the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants, NJBiz’s 40 Under 40 in 2017 and in 2021, Cowan was named to the Construction Financial Management Association’s first ever 40 under 40.

Beyond Wiss

Chris is actively involved in his community and was honored by the United Way of Ocean County as one of the 2012’s Young Altruistic Professionals for his community service and philanthropy. He frequently speaks to accounting and finance associations at universities in New Jersey on developing leadership and communication skills and exploring career opportunities in the accounting profession. When not in the office, Chris enjoys spending time with his family and friends, any type of cycling, snowboarding, and traveling.