William T. Mason, III, CPA, CGMA

Having served as president and CEO of LaPorte for the last 20 years,  Ted is now focused on supporting industry group strategy and client development, as well as professional development through LaPorte University and the firm’s Professional Growth Plan program.

In his previous role as president and CEO, Ted was responsible for setting the strategic direction and overseeing the day-to-day management of the firm. He also facilitated strategic planning for firm clients.

Ted led the firm through unprecedented growth – from a $6 million, 40-person professional accounting firm to a $30 million, 190 person firm. Under his leadership, LaPorte also added three new offices and now has locations in Metairie, Baton Rouge, Covington, and Houma, Louisiana, and in Houston, Texas.

Ted has been very active in the RSM US Alliance, leveraging the value of the RSM US relationship, helping identify valuable national and international resources, and staying on top of industry trends. 

Ted began his professional career with LaPorte in 1980, where he provided auditing, accounting, and taxation services to clients. Six years after joining the firm, he left LaPorte to serve for five years as chief financial officer of a $200 million financial institution. During this time, Ted gained significant experience in areas such as mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings, and strategic business plan development. He returned to LaPorte in 1991 as a member of the audit practice, where he focused on successfully building a strong financial institutions practice.