Remembering Art Schneider

By the TAXING TIMES Editorial Board

TAXING TIMES, October 2023

The TAXING TIMES editorial board was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Art Schneider in early August.

Art's career in insurance tax spanned several decades, including 24 years with KPMG's Chicago and Washington National Tax offices, and 17 years with Transamerica Life Insurance Company as Senior Vice President and Chief Tax Officer. In retirement, he was a consultant with the ACLI.

In each role he assumed, Art was a leader, a first among equals. At KPMG, he mentored many of the men and women who today are national leaders in insurance tax. With Transamerica, he volunteered actively for various activities within ACLI, earning the further respect not only of his peers, but of professionals throughout the government. In retirement, he continued working with the ACLI to help present, clearly and accurately, the operation of complex tax and accounting rules to regulators. For decades, he was a thought leader and a prolific writer, volunteering as a TAXING TIMES editor and authoring and coauthoring a record (or near-record) number of articles. He did so not for financial reward, but for love of the profession and the opportunity to get things right.

Art had high standards. Anyone co-authoring or preparing a document for his review would do their very best, knowing he would hold it to the highest standards and make it better. He unfailingly commented on every article that circulated for TAXING TIMES peer review, and as editors we looked forward to Art's feedback. If something didn't measure up, he would say so.

Art also had a keen moral sense. He turned square corners. He advocated for what was fair, not for what was most advantageous or expedient. He was honest. This gave him gravitas, and earned the respect and trust of his peers whether on the same or opposite sides of a transaction or a technical position.

As a person, Art was a reliable and solid friend. He was approachable and could be trusted to maintain something told in confidence. He had the rare ability to both show empathy and push back. He was measured and patient.

All these qualities have enriched us individually and have contributed to the quality and camaraderie of TAXING TIMES. We are indebted to Art for his contributions to TAXING TIMES and offer sincere condolences to his family at this sad time.

TAXING TIMES Editorial Board