Matt Gardiner
CPA, CFE, Partner
Bio
Matt joined the firm in 2013 and was promoted to partner in 2025. Growing up around the business, Matt was no stranger to the firm, often visiting his parents, grandfather, and uncle, and fondly recalls sneaking candy from his grandpa’s desk drawer. His path into accounting became clear during his time at Iowa State University, where he excelled academically, earning a spot on the Dean’s List and graduating Magna Cum Laude. Matt interned at Gardiner during the summers, working with co-ops, credit unions, and participating in inventory observations. As a third-generation member of the firm, he takes great pride in continuing the legacy of his grandfather and father, and is committed to driving the firm's ongoing growth and success.
Hobbies
Outside of work, Matt enjoys spending time with his wife, Kathleen, and their sons, Brody and Dillon. Summer weekends are often spent at the Des Moines Farmers Market or biking to nearby parks. An avid blues guitar fan, Matt also loves playing guitar and staying active through cycling. Specializing in agriculture clients, employee benefit plans, and non-profits, Matt is a member of the AICPA, ISCPA, and NSAC, and is a Certified Fraud Examiner. Additionally, he leads the firm's technology initiatives, championing AI-assisted audit techniques to improve efficiency and service quality.
In my career we’ve seen so much change in the workplace. The largest change has been technology driven: whether that was the move to digital or cloud-based solutions, or AI-aided auditing; continuously finding a better way to build the mousetrap is my favorite part about what we do.