LOS ANGELES, CA (November 8, 2024) – GHJ, a national advisory and accounting firm, is proud to announce that GHJ State and Local Tax Practice Leader Frances Ellington Gutierrez, Food and Beverage Practice Leader Maria Pearman and Forensic Services Expert Christina Fung were featured on Los Angeles Business Journal’s and the California Society of Certified Public Accountants’ (CalCPA’s) “Top 100 Accountants” list. This honor reflects their outstanding contributions to providing excellent client service and pushing boundaries in the accounting industry.
“Frances, Maria and Christina each bring a level of passion and innovation that propels GHJ’s growth and sets a high bar in the accounting profession,” said GHJ Managing Partner Tom Barry. “Their dedication and expertise significantly enhance our Firm's reputation, inspire our colleagues and contribute to our industry's advancement.”
All three honorees were recognized on stage at the Top 100 Accountants dinner, hosted Nov. 7 in Los Angeles. At this event, GHJ was also recognized as Most Innovative Firm of the Year for its client experience strategy.
GHJ is deeply invested in supporting emerging leaders, a commitment that is vividly demonstrated in the accomplishments and the caliber of its team. GHJ takes pride in fostering an environment where its people can #BeMore and make substantial contributions to the lives of their clients and communities.
FRANCES ELLINGTON GUTIERREZ
Frances has been instrumental in reshaping the landscape of state and local tax advisory with her innovative approach to multistate income and franchise taxes. Her proactive strategies and deep understanding of tax legislation have realized significant value for her clients and solve complex challenges to help them navigate the evolving tax landscape with confidence. With her unmatched expertise, Frances raises the standard for exceptional tax advisory services and leads the industry in elevating the accounting profession.
Passionate about shaping the next generation, Frances teaches at the University of North Carolina’s Master of Accounting program and has taught courses at UCLA Extension, Strafford Publications and The Knowledge Group. She is also a Director on the Los Angeles Chapter Board of CalCPA, focused on partnership and sponsorship initiatives that enrich the accounting profession and provide opportunities for accountants across Southern California.
MARIA PEARMAN
Maria stands out for her entrepreneurial spirit and deep expertise in the food and beverage space and she has helped numerous clients navigate complexity, drive financial success and achieve operational efficiency. Her insights empower clients to achieve their financial goals, establish strong businesses and make better informed decisions about their operations. This work delivers significant value to clients and strengthens the industry as a whole.
Beyond her role as Food and Beverage Practice Leader, Maria is a leader, advisor, mentor and a notable voice in her industry. Her books Small Brewery Finance and Distillery Finance are considered essential reading for beverage alcohol professionals. Her commitment to education extends to speaking engagements and seminars where she shares her insights, further solidifying her reputation as a leader in food and beverage.
CHRISTINA FUNG
Christina has quickly made her mark at GHJ by spearheading complex forensic investigations and valuation services that span multiple industries, from technology to healthcare. Her expertise in forensic accounting not only aids clients in navigating disputes but also equips them with a deeper understanding of financial nuances to foster clearer, more strategic decision-making. Christina’s exceptional skill set and pivotal role in expanding GHJ’s Forensic Services Practice have made her an invaluable voice at the Firm and in the industry. In recognition of her work, Christina was named Young Accountant of the Year by the International Accounting Bulletin in 2023.
As a passionate advocate for supporting diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) within the accounting profession, Christina co-leads GHJ’s Women’s Empowerment Cohort, where she drives initiatives that support gender equity in and outside of the Firm.
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About GHJ
GHJ is a national advisory and accounting firm with a mission to help its clients and team members #BeMore by pursuing their passions, building thriving businesses and creating a better future. Headquartered in Los Angeles with additional offices in San Jose, Buffalo and Denver and over 250 professionals and 21 partners throughout the U.S., GHJ serves thousands of clients worldwide. The Firm meets clients where they are and specializes in a diverse range of industries, including entertainment, food and beverage and media and advertising companies and nonprofit organizations.
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 recognized for its innovative approach and dedication to client success. This is driven by the belief that its collective diversity of thoughts, backgrounds and experiences are exactly what makes GHJ a place where employees can each #BeMore – together. Employees are invited to pursue their passions, deliver exceptional service and support the causes they care about. The Firm embraces hybrid work and prioritizes diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA). Additionally, GHJ Foundation supports the community through financial contributions and volunteerism.
GHJ is 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). As a member of HLB International, the global network of independent advisory and accounting firms, GHJ provides clients with seamless access to expertise in over 150 countries to deliver solutions that meet both local and global needs.
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