LOS ANGELES, CA (October 11, 2024) – GHJ, an award-winning national advisory and accounting firm, has strategically grown its Advisory Practice to better serve the dynamic needs of its clients. In recent years, the Firm has made substantial investments to expand its suite of innovative advisory services, which have been designed to address the complex challenges faced by its clientele. This expansion underscores GHJ’s steadfast commitment to delivering holistic, client-focused solutions that empower businesses to achieve their strategic objectives.

“GHJ’s Advisory Practice provides clients with strategic insights and innovative solutions to support their personal and business strategic goals,” said GHJ Advisory Practice Leader Anant Patel. “Our focus remains on understanding the unique challenges our clients face and offering comprehensive support that drives their growth and success. By fostering a culture of collaboration and forward-thinking, we ensure that our advisory services not only meet but exceed the needs of the businesses we serve.” 

Recognized as one of the Fastest-Growing Firms in the U.S. by Accounting Today, GHJ has successfully scaled its operations while maintaining a high standard of client service. The Firm leverages its enhanced resources and expertise to offer a broader range of specialized advisory services to guarantee that clients receive the most effective and relevant support in an increasingly competitive business landscape.

“In GHJ, we have found a collaborative ally,” said Cascadia Chairman and CEO Michael Butler. “GHJ’s proactive approach to solving complex challenges has made our partnership not only valuable but indispensable in achieving successful outcomes.”

EMPOWERING CLIENTS WITH COMPREHENSIVE ACCOUNTING SOLUTIONS

GHJ’s Client Accounting and Advisory Services (CAAS) Practice transforms how businesses manage their financial operations. Under the guidance of Practice Leader Arna Erazo, CAAS provides both complementary and full-service outsourced accounting solutions tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises. By integrating advanced accounting technologies and industry best practices, CAAS delivers precise financial reporting and budget planning to empower clients to make informed strategic decisions with confidence.

“Many companies are now looking beyond traditional bookkeeping and payroll services and seeking value-added services like financial planning, analysis and strategic decision support,” Arna explained. “In addition to the improved accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting, these clients feel empowered to make more informed business decisions, optimize cash flow and identify growth opportunities within their organizations. By engaging in these high-value services, clients can gain deeper insights into their financial data, which allows for more proactive management of their organizations.”

Established in 2022, CAAS responds to the increasing demand for flexible and scalable accounting solutions. By implementing the latest automation tools and accounting systems, CAAS reduces the administrative burden on clients and allows them to focus on their core operations while ensuring financial accuracy and efficiency.

NAVIGATING COMPLEX TRANSACTIONS WITH EXPERTISE 

Playing a critical role in intricate mergers and acquisitions (M&A), GHJ’s Transaction Advisory Services (TAS) Practice has a track record of advising on transactions ranging from $10 million to $1.5 billion in enterprise value. Boasting a track record of over 250 deals worth nearly $20 billion, GHJ’s TAS Practice offers unparalleled experience and expertise.

“A multitude of economic factors has led to increased deal scrutiny and longer transaction timelines, which require a more strategic and meticulous approach to deal execution,” said GHJ TAS Practice Leader David Sutton. “GHJ leverages its unique balance of experience across buy-side and sell-side transactions, and our core philosophy of senior involvement throughout the deal process to bring the value of our experience and expertise to present financial and tax risks and opportunities through the lens of the current market landscape. This holistic approach provides clients with the clarity and confidence needed to navigate the complexities of modern deals.”

As the M&A landscape continues to evolve, GHJ remains committed to enhancing its Transaction Advisory Services to provide unparalleled support and strategic guidance. By continuously refreshing its TAS offerings and driving innovation in deal advisory, GHJ ensures that clients receive the most effective and relevant support and enables them to achieve their strategic objectives.

CREATING VALUE THROUGH STRATEGIC ADVISORY

Middle-market organizations that are looking for guidance to create strategic growth trajectories or prepare for successful exits can turn to GHJ’s Growth Planning and Strategic Advisory Practice. Renowned for its creativity and flexibility and led by David Horwich, this practice provides action plans to address each client’s unique challenges and opportunities.

“Achieving growth is not just about expansion; it is about strategic positioning, readiness for future opportunities and, most importantly, increasing the value of the business,” Horwich explained. “Our tailored advisory services address our clients’ specific goals and concerns to ensure they are positioned for long-term success and maximum value.”

Leveraging deep industry knowledge and a collaborative approach, GHJ’s Growth Planning and Strategic Advisory team identifies unique opportunities and implements solutions that drive significant business outcomes. Whether assisting with market expansion, driving operational optimization or preparing for an exit, GHJ provides each client with personalized support aligned with their strategic objectives. This methodical and creative approach provides clients with the clarity and direction necessary to achieve measurable results.

DRIVING FINANCIAL EXCELLENCE IN ENTERTAINMENT

Headquartered in the heart of Los Angeles, GHJ’s Profit Participation Services (PPS) Practice stands as the premier provider of profit participation audits for the entertainment industry. Under the direction of Practice Leader Peter Klass, PPS leverages GHJ’s strategic location to cultivate deep relationships with major studios, production companies and key industry stakeholders to guarantee unparalleled insight and efficiency in managing profit participation arrangements.

“The entertainment industry’s complexities require meticulous financial oversight,” Peter said. “Our expertise ensures that our clients receive solutions tailored to their unique needs.”

The entertainment landscape has seen significant shifts, including the rise of streaming deals, labor disputes and evolving distribution models. These changes have introduced new complexities in financial agreements and contingent compensation structures. GHJ’s PPS Practice adapts to these shifts by integrating advanced methodologies to develop personalized solutions to maximize value for its clients. 

The Firm’s unrivaled reputation, combined with its robust network and deep knowledge base, positions GHJ as the trusted advisor for all profit participation needs. Whether addressing complex financial analyses, conducting bespoke contractual accounting reviews, providing litigation support or consulting on participation deals, PPS makes sure clients are well-equipped to handle the intricacies of the entertainment financial landscape.

ENSURING FINANCIAL INTEGRITY WITH FORENSIC EXCELLENCE

By providing critical support in litigation and internal investigations, GHJ’s Forensic Services Practice plays a pivotal role in safeguarding clients’ financial integrity and legal interests. GHJ’s practice offers an extensive suite of forensic accounting, litigation support, expert witness services and internal investigation assistance to make sure clients receive precise and reliable support in navigating complex financial and legal challenges.

“The evolving nature of financial fraud and regulatory challenges requires a proactive and technologically advanced approach,” said GHJ Forensic Services Practice Leader Peter Brown. “Our team is dedicated to delivering precise and timely forensic solutions that protect our clients’ assets and reputations.”

Forensic accounting has undergone significant changes, particularly with advancements in technology that have transformed the way investigations are conducted. GHJ has embraced these advancements to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of its forensic work. Through close collaboration with GHJ’s Data Analytics Services Practice, the Forensic Services team utilizes modern tools and sophisticated techniques to manage increasingly large and complex data sets. This streamlines the process for investigations and litigation support assignments, reduces manual effort and provides more timely and accurate results.

TRANSFORMING DATA INTO STRATEGIC INSIGHTS

Launched in 2023 under Sam Volstad’s leadership, GHJ’s Data Analytics Services (DAS) Practice empowers clients to transform their data into strategic assets. DAS’ expansive suite of services includes data acquisition, cleaning, maintenance, analysis, visualization and automation solutions. This practice enables businesses to harness the full potential of their data to drive operational efficiency and uncover insights that fuel growth and profitability.

“Data is the new currency of business,” Sam expanded. “Our goal is to help clients turn their data into actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making and competitive advantage.”

DAS supports clients in building robust data infrastructures and implementing advanced analytical tools to make sure that businesses can stay agile and responsive in a data-centric market. By partnering with GHJ’s DAS Practice, clients can gain the expertise needed to navigate complex data landscapes and leverage information for sustained success.

DEDICATED TO CLIENT SUCCESS AND EXCELLENCE

GHJ continues to build on its robust foundation by expanding its Advisory Practice with specialized service lines tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients. By integrating advanced technologies and fostering deep industry relationships, GHJ delivers innovative and effective solutions that drive business growth and financial integrity. The Firm’s dedication to excellence provides each client with personalized support designed to navigate complex business challenges successfully.

As GHJ progresses, it remains committed to enhancing its service offerings and investing in its talented team to maintain its position as a trusted advisor in the advisory and accounting landscape. The Firm invites clients and stakeholders to engage with its Advisory Practice and experience firsthand the comprehensive and strategic support that distinguishes GHJ as a leader in the industry. 

…

About GHJ

GHJ is a national advisory and accounting firm with employees in nearly 30 states and clients around the world. Our team provides personalized service for companies in an array of industries, including nonprofit, food and beverage, entertainment, media and advertising. Ranked as a Top-100 Firm, 7th Fastest-Growing Firm, Top Regional Leader in the West and Best Firm to Work For by Accounting Today, GHJ is passionate about helping clients and its people #BeMore by focusing on building thriving businesses and creating a better future.

Through its affiliation with HLB International, a global network of independent professional accounting firms and business advisers, GHJ is able to partner with other top firms around the world. GHJ’s audit, tax and advisory teams leverage the HLB network to partner with its clients and give clients access to member firms in over 157 countries across the globe. GHJ has 20 partners and more than 200 staff members, who serve thousands of clients. The Firm is also a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the AICPA Governmental Audit Quality Center (GAQC), the California Society of CPAs and the California Association of Nonprofits (CalNonprofit).

###