The Future of Business Management 2024
Trusted Advisor is proud to announce the honorees of the 3rd Annual Future of Business Management List, in partnership with Axos Bank.
This year, from the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence to the evolving landscape of social media and its associated discourse, business managers with clients in various fields — whether it’s gaming, music, the creator space, or sports — have had to tackle complex problems with creative solutions.
Also over the past year, Trusted Advisor has significantly expanded its network to include many new members in the US and UK, resulting in the diverse and impressive group of business managers who stood out and were nominated for this year’s Future of Business Management list. Every honoree on the list was nominated by preeminent entertainment and music attorneys, artist managers, and other advisors who are frequently engaging with business managers.
“Business managers play an indispensable role that extends far beyond managing finances, taxes, and bills—they are true partners in their clients’ growth. Guiding both business decisions and personal milestones, they help shape the trajectory of the most influential figures in music, entertainment and sports. Balancing these responsibilities requires immense dedication, creativity, and a deep understanding of each client’s unique needs. This year, we are excited to honor these tireless professionals for their invaluable contributions and commitment to excellence,” said Matthew Hoffman, the Founder and CEO of Trusted Advisor.
Christian Santaniello, the SVP and Head of Commercial Deposits & Treasury Management at Axos Bank, said the following:
“Congratulations to the Future of Business Management award recipients! We applaud their dedication to the dynamic music and entertainment industries. As this sector continues to evolve, Axos stands proudly by their side, offering steadfast support at every stage of their remarkable careers. Here’s to the Future of Business Management list and their ongoing success in shaping the industry’s future.”
Rochelle Yambao, the Managing Director of Entertainment Banking at Axos Bank, added:
“Teaming up with Trusted Advisor, we are thrilled to introduce the exceptional honorees of the Future of Business Management awards. This distinguished list acknowledges the pioneering business managers shaping the future of music and entertainment. Join us in celebrating the achievements of these exceptional business managers as they persist in reshaping and redefining the industry.”
This talented collection of business managers are tireless and inspired professionals, utilizing decades of experience to provide high-quality support for their clients. They represent the pride and promise of the exciting future of business management in the entertainment industry, and we can’t wait to see what they do next.
Thank you to Axos Bank for sponsoring, and congratulations to the honorees of the third annual Trusted Advisor Future of Business Management List.
Reggie Gooden, Co-Founder & Managing Partner,
360 Business Management
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Aim to make each year better than the last.
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… Tough times don’t last. Tough people do. My mother.
Reggie Gooden, Managing Partner of 360 Business Management, has more than 2 decades experience in finance and accounting. He uses his advisory expertise to safeguard professional creatives, which he feels is his life’s passion. Besides managing a growing company of 20 employees, Reggie enjoys lifelong learning and has a fierce dedication to diversity and inclusion matters.
Kymberli Hall, Business Manager,
360 Business Management
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… Traveling to countries that I haven’t visited.
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… To set realistic financial goals for the following year.
With over 20 years of experience in Entertainment Business Management, I take pleasure in engaging with my talented clients and helping them achieve their financial goals. I enjoy attending concerts and volunteering with various organizations that benefit underprivileged youth.
Josh Martin, CPA, Business Manager,
360 Business Management
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Budget for half of your money going to taxes. Even if your tax liability ends up being less than 50% of the amount in your account, it will be beneficial because you can use any excess to contribute to a SEP IRA or similar retirement account. This will lower your effective tax rate and help you build a nest egg for retirement.
The smartest person I know is… My wife. She’s able to handle a million things at once. It’s truly amazing. We have four kids, sometimes five (including me), and she runs the household, works, and solves everyone’s problems all day. I’m incredibly lucky.
I am a CPA and business manager to actors, online content creators, and athletes. I’m passionate about helping my clients personally and professionally. I take pride in being my clients go-to person in their lives.
Benjamin Greger, Principal,
A Harrison Company, LLC
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… Time. More time with my kids, more time with my wife, more time with clients, more time.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… Banking. The banking industry should have a better relationship between business managers and the client they’re holding the money for. Banks should want to know the client as much as they know us and it should be a unified experience all around.
I was born and raised in the Tri-state, but Miami is my home. Currently raising 4 beautiful children and rocking out to life with my best friend, my wife. We like long walks on the beach, ripping the top off the Bronco, and late-night swim sessions in our pool. I have a newly found obsession in Crossfit training, and on the weekends you can likely catch me smoking a new meat on the BBQ.
Elina Sutskever, Business Manager/Accountant,
Altman Greenfield & Selvaggi
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Squirrel away as much as possible, you never know what next year will bring.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Completing all sections of the CPA exam in my first attempt.
Elina Sutskever has been providing full-service business management to artists in the entertainment industry for over a decade. As an immigrant from the former Soviet Union, Elina understands the value of a dollar and treats each client’s money with time and care as if it were her own.
Joshua Work, CPA, Partner,
Altman Greenfield & Selvaggi
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… My Dad. He always told me when I was younger to “be prepared, and do your best,” and I’ve taken that with me everywhere I go in my career. Simple, yet substantial.
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Save for retirement. I always suggest my clients open pension accounts and make contributions at the end of the year. It’s a win/win because you save for retirement and get the benefit of a tax deduction.
I graduated from Lehigh University in 2012 and have been a Business Manager in the film/entertainment industry for almost ten years. I’ve been a Partner at Altman, Greenfield & Selvaggi since January of 2022.
Tate Henshaw, CFP, Co-Founder,
Arc Business Management
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Watching my daughters improve and eventually ascend the podium in swimming and gymnastics after watching them put in the work all year.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… Integrating technology that helps the clients actually understand what’s going on.
Tate Henshaw executes for Grammy winners, NBA All-Stars, and international tech companies with the same laser focus that got him named as one of the top 40 accountants in America. His experience with tour accounting, royalty administration, and fintech gives Arc the ability to rival services provided by the top business managers in the industry.
Rob Abramowitz, CPA/PFS, CFP, MST
Armanino LLP
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… The best advice I was given – doing the right thing is always the right thing – emphasized the importance of transparency and doing the right thing, even when it’s difficult. This principle is crucial in both personal and professional contexts. Making ethical decisions builds trust and credibility, which are indispensable for long-term success. For instance, advising clients based on their goals rather than solely focusing on tax reduction demonstrates our commitment to their well-being. This advice has shaped my approach to business management, ensuring I prioritize client interests and maintain integrity in all dealings.
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… Time. Time management is a critical component of success, both personally and professionally. Having unlimited time would allow me to focus on strategic planning, personal growth, and providing exceptional service to clients without the constraints of deadlines. Additionally, access to unlimited information would be invaluable, enabling me to stay ahead of industry trends and continuously improve our offerings.
Robert began his career in public accounting in 2004. For more than a decade, he has consulted as a business manager and tax advisor for clientele in the entertainment and professional service industries. He works closely with athletes, actors, writers, musicians, touring artists, consultants, physicians, entrepreneurs, executives, high-net-worth individuals and closely held businesses. His areas of focus are business management, tax planning and compliance, as well as financial planning. He has deep expertise in analyzing and evaluating a client’s financial status, helping them make informed financial decisions including personal and business transactions, managing their day-to-day financial affairs and overseeing their risk exposure.
Sharbel Alem, Manager
Armanino LLP
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Becoming more involved in business development and nurturing the relationships that have spawned from the many events and meetings that I have consistently attended.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… We are working on implementing modern technology into the business management model which in my experience at other firms feels like it’s been stuck in 1975.
Los Angeles born and raised with Bolivian roots. Sharbel is an 11-year business management veteran with broad experience having clients from various industries including sports, television, film, music and venture capitalists. When I’m not helping clients with their business management needs I’m most likely watching soccer, of any level.
Edward R. Eschleman, ESQ., Director, Business Management & Family Office Services, Armanino LLP
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Being selected to the Gospel Music Association Foundation Board of Directors
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… Patience.
Ed brings a wealth of experience in business management and consulting to his role at Armanino. Before joining the firm, he served in multiple legal and consulting roles and even served as the CFO for a major country musician. Passionate about Armanino’s growth in the music and sports sectors, Ed channels this enthusiasm into every aspect of his work. His unique approach to business management is instrumental in educating his musician, athlete, and high-net-worth clients on financial matters. His commitment to providing the highest level of service to his clients has led to several honors, such as being named one of the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 40 Under 40 in 2017 and a member of the 2019 Leadership Atlanta class. Ed earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Accounting from the University of Florida and his Juris Doctor from Wake Forest University School of Law. Off the clock, Ed is an active philanthropist, having contributed to and advised organizations such as the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Creative Economy Music Council, the Zoo Atlanta Leadership Council, A Community Effort, and Emerging Leaders for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
Olga Goldovskaya, MBA, Director, Business Management
Armanino LLP
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… I would advise my clients to make smart moves towards their financial future. Understand and listen to their Financial & Business management team. Be patient with regard to investing in business opportunities. And remember “save now/play later.”
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… Expect Nothing and Appreciate Everything – Mentor
Olga Goldovskaya brings over 18 years of comprehensive experience tailored to athletes, entertainers, high-net-worth individuals and their families. Her expertise extends beyond lifestyle management to accounting and reporting, insurance audits and major asset acquisitions. With a talent for specialized client project management, Olga has skillfully handled accountancy for music professionals, including tour accounting, royalty management and royalty audits. Olga’s proficiency in managing the multifaceted relationships of prominent clients in the entertainment and professional sports sectors is unparalleled. She is dedicated to the highest level of excellence, professionalism and confidentiality for all her clients.
Craig A. Manzino, CPA, Partner
Armanino LLP
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… Time—the precious currency of life. Every decision we make is an investment, a deliberate allocation of this finite resource. It’s the choice between that extra hour at work or a rejuvenating gym session. It’s the balance between productivity and cherished moments with family. Embrace each moment, for time is the canvas upon which our legacy is painted
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… One of my proudest achievements is coaching my daughter’s flag football team. In the past, I couldn’t have imagined balancing coaching with my career. However, the pandemic changed everything. It opened a door, allowing our personal and work lives to intertwine. Now, I can be productive at work while still being present for my family—a positive outcome from these challenging times.
Craig specializes in business management, tax and financial planning for clients in the sports, arts, entertainment and media industries. His clients include actors, writers, directors, producers, musicians, photographers, models, filmmakers, influencers and athletes. Craig is passionate about his clients and provides concierge business management services so they can focus on their careers. Clients rely on Craig’s strategic advice in all aspects of their lives to help them achieve business and financial goals.
Andrea Leventhal, CPA, Director, Business Management
Baker Tilly
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Develop a budget and financial plan for the upcoming year based on lessons learned and new objectives. Set realistic financial milestones and create strategies to achieve them.
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… Persist through the urge to quit; the future holds unexpected opportunities. – My Grandmother.
Andrea is a seasoned director boasting more than a decade of expertise in business management. She serves as a trusted advisor to high-net-worth individuals in sports, media and entertainment. Leveraging her profound understanding of the entertainment industry, Andrea offers tailored business management solutions that empower clients to excel in their respective fields. Through strategic insights and innovative approaches, she consistently guides her clients toward success.
William Greenfield, Managing Partner
Carswell, Greenfield & Kunstler
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Convinced my daughter to buy a house (my toughest client).
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… I would like to do a better job at getting the word out about Business Management to attract more people to the industry.
William joined the firm Carswell, Greenfield & Kunstler shortly after graduating with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from UCLA where he also received a Personal Financial Planner designation. In addition to his Managing Partner responsibilities, he also oversees the design of schedules and systems that convey the financial information to the clients which enables clients to achieve their financial goals. The ever-changing nature of this industry, diverse client base, and desire to provide the best possible service makes for a challenging but very satisfying career.
Adam Eisen, CPA, MBA, Business Manager
Cavu Business Management
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Pay your taxes while you have the money!
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… Provide a higher level of service and get ahead of potential issues. Play offense, not defense.
Adam is a financial professional with over 25 years of experience. His experience includes tenures at Colony Capital (private equity) and at CAA prior to pivoting to business management. Adam’s clients are largely concentrated in the sports and entertainment industries. Offering a boutique-firm experience to his clients, Adam develops close relationships to provide comprehensive financial and tax services.
Jennifer L. Coyne, CPA, Director
Citrin Cooperman Advisors LLC.
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Don’t go crazy with holiday gifts, those that love you will love you. No expensive gift is needed.
The smartest person I know is… Taylor Swift – she is incredibly talented and hires the best people to help her.
Jennifer specializes in providing business management services to the entertainment industry, film production companies, music executives, artist management companies, entertainers, and professional athletes. Her specialties include complex accounting, tax services, venture capital deals, and advising sports-related businesses. Jennifer believes the importance of a successful relationship with clients is treating them like family. She also feels that education is a large part of her job and that the more her clients are engaged with their financial situation, the better financial choices that they can make.
Jamie Montanio, Business Management & Family Office Services
Citrin Cooperman Advisors LLC.
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Don’t wait until the end of the year! Planning is a 365-day process which means that we should always be working to minimize taxes and maximize wealth.
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… On the first day of 4th grade, my dad told me to try and learn at least something new each day. I have carried that with me ever since—there is always something new you can learn, and you should always be trying to grow and learn even more.”
Jamie Montanio has over 20 years of experience in public accounting. Jamie is a personable individual who listens to her clients and coordinates all aspects of their financial lives. She solves problems for clients and comes to them with solutions to help them achieve their personal goals. Her tax background helps her clients save taxes, but her investment knowledge knows that all financial decisions do not revolve around tax savings, and Jamie knows how to strike a nice balance. Jamie recognizes that she was fortunate to have great mentors growing up in this industry and gives back by mentoring the next generation of business managers.
Anna Stolina, CPA, Director, Business Management & Family Office Services, Citrin Cooperman Advisors LLC.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Running a half marathon!
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… My dad always told me to surround myself with good mirrors in life; that the people around us will shape how we see ourselves, our realities, our goals, and decisions. I grew up wanting to be that for other people and be that for my clients.
Anna is a director in Citrin Cooperman’s Business Management Family Office practice based out of New York. She works with a variety of entertainment clients ranging from performers, actors, screenwriters, directors, and producers. With a background in ultra-high net worth tax advisory and a passion for understanding human behavior and psychology, she has dedicated her career to building meaningful relationships with her clients and helping them craft their optimal financial futures while also supporting their creative goals and dreams.
Sean Granat, Partner
CohnReznick LLP
Sean Granat is a tax partner who works in a specialized capacity serving the entertainment industry. Based in New York, he has extensive experience providing services to artists who have toured both nationally and globally. Sean’s expertise includes business management, tax preparation, tax planning, and dispute resolution. He was named to Billboard magazine’s “Top Business Managers” list from 2018 through 2023, and Variety magazine’s “Business Managers Elite” list from 2020 through 2023.
Nicole Coleman, CPA, MA/BA, CPA/Business Manager
Coleman Tax Advisors, LLC
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Start tax planning for the upcoming year! We can’t change the financial activity that occurred during the year. However, we can plan for the changes that will occur in the upcoming year.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… In the last year, I have had more clients communicate how happy they were with their decision to work with me. To be reminded on a recurring basis that someone trusts me with their life is the proudest moment of my career
With over 19 years of experience in accounting and tax, Nicole Coleman, CPA, brings a wealth of expertise in business and personal tax compliance, accounting reviews, and compilations. Specializing in business management for high-profile artists and entertainers, as well as offering part-time CFO services and finance management, Nicole is the owner and operator of a boutique CPA firm licensed in GA. Her firm caters to business owners, executives, and independent professionals across diverse industries including entertainment, real estate, food service, film & TV production, health and beauty, and marketing. Nicole’s strategic tax planning has successfully saved clients over $7 million in tax debt settlements.
Mark A. Pariser, CPA, Partner
Dunn Pariser & Peyrot
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… Stick to a task, even when it’s difficult. My father
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Professional – Being named as an Entertainment Business Visionary by the L.A. Times. Personal – Having my fiance move in with me and building a life together.
Mark Pariser is a business manager who represents professionals and artists in music, film and television. His clients also include influencers, entrepreneurs and other high-net-worth individuals. Mark also serves on the board of directors for the SONA (Songwriters of North America) and The SONA Foundation. Mark has been recognized as a top business manager by most of the entertainment industry press.
Sally T. Velazquez, ESQ., Business Manager, Tax Attorney,
Empower Business Management
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Being honored in Billboard’s Women in Music was a great moment for me. Being surrounded by so many inspiring women was motivating.
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… I always say this, but I would want TIME. Time is so fleeting!
Sally Velazquez is a Los Angeles-based Tax Attorney/Business Manager and founder of Empower Business Management, Inc. Sally represents musicians, actors and other entertainers in the entertainment industry and is known for her expertise in tax and entity structuring. Sally has over fifteen years of experience in tax, accounting and business management and provides concierge services while overseeing bookkeeping, accounting, financial reporting, insurance, and investments for her client’s personal and financial affairs.
Tina Fasbender, CFP, Founder/Business Manager
Fasbender Financial Management
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Exhale, take a good look at how you used your time and resources over the past year, reevaluate your priorities and consciously shape the coming year to bring you more joy and security!
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… Business Management must be relationship-based, with a clear understanding of how your client processes the information you share with them. Given the creative, emotional and financial minefield that is the music industry, it’s critical to stand in alliance with your clients and help them navigate volatile or uncertain times, and the associated pressures impacting personal and professional lives. Mental health cannot be disconnected from financial health, and if we do our job effectively, we have an important role to play in helping stabilize both.
Established in 1987, Fasbender Financial Management is an elite business and financial management firm, based in Santa Monica, CA. We provide tailored, personalized guidance to touring and studio artists, songwriters, producers, high-profile C-suite executives and creative professionals. Intentionally choosing to be a deep and broad resource to our clients, we take time to know them, learn what matters most to them, and collaborate with them on their long-term vision for life, family and career.
Brad Akin, Associate Business Manager
FBMM
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… In pop culture, business managers are often just the member of the team who tells the client not to buy the expensive watch or the second house. I care a great deal about my clients and aim to make sure we are doing far more than just reporting numbers. To that end, a client once had a mug made for me that said “I give a shit” and it is one of my favorite possessions.
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Know the length of your cash runway. What does it cost you to cover your basic needs each month? How many months will the cash you have available to you cover those expenses? It might help you plan for the next year. Maybe you can take some much-needed time off to relax or write the next record. Or maybe it is important to get back on the road and tour in the summer vs the fall.
A former artist manager, Brad Akin helps his clients make sound financial decisions and empowers them to become confident, financially minded CEOs of their businesses. As an Associate Business Manager and a member of FBMM Entertainment Business Management since 2008, Brad spends much of his day-to-day finding ways to utilize existing and emerging tools to better serve his clients. Brad specializes in managing international touring and has overseen more than 4,000 tour dates in 50 countries. Outside of working hours, Brad can be found overseeing the complex logistics associated with raising two young boys.
Paul Barnabee, Business Manager & Head of West Coast Operations
FBMM
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Call your business manager weeks before the end of the year to discuss strategies and allow time to implement those plans.
The smartest person I know is… The smartest people I know are the owners of FBMM. Their extensive knowledge and ability to solve problems across a variety of topics is outstanding.
Paul Barnabee, business manager and director of West Coast Operations, joined FBMM as a senior staffer and was tapped to lead the Los Angeles office when it opened in 2020. He has more than 30 years of music industry experience with a diverse background, having worked in many divisions of Polygram Records, Sony Music and now FBMM. Paul is known for his fierce dedication to his team and his clients and is driven to help artists achieve their career and financial goals. Paul is treasurer of the ACM Lifting Lives® for the 2023–2024 term and served as chairman of the board for the 2020–2022 term. In 2022, he received the ACM Lifting Lives Award for his role in the ACM Lifting Lives COVID-19 Response Fund, which raised and distributed nearly four million dollars to Country Music workers impacted by the pandemic. Paul was chairman of the board for the Academy of Country Music and served on the board of directors for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Middle Tennessee for five years.
Evan Jehle, CPA/PFS, Partner
FFO
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Make sure you have a good financial plan in place for the upcoming year with expectations and projections for the next 12 months. One of the keys is to forecast where dips in finances might come so you can develop a plan to manage them before they actually happen. Otherwise, you could be left struggling to get through that down period of time and create lots of unnecessary stress.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… I would really like to see Accountants and Business Managers move towards an Elite Wealth Management practice with the goal of helping optimize the financial lives of clients. The focus is on delivering enhanced value by providing access to various financial strategies and products (non-investment related) combined with their deep understanding of the client’s needs and concerns. This elevates the client experience and is also more engaging for team members of the firm.
Evan Jehle, Partner at FFO, is an industry expert providing business management, tax and advanced planning, and accounting services for ultra-high-net-worth clients, including entrepreneurs, executives, celebrities, and athletes. Evan is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the state of New York, a member of the exclusive Forbes Finance Council, and holds a Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) Certification from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Combining his depth of experience with the PFS accreditation, Evan specializes in wealth preservation and growth strategies and provides objective recommendations in all areas of personal financial planning, including income tax, estate, retirement, investment, risk management, and small business consulting.
Matthew Gilbert-Aranoff, Partner
Fulton Management
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Our firm’s digital creators have surpassed 1.5 billion hours of total watch time on YouTube in the last 12 months.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… I want to be three years too early in adopting new technology rather than be three years too late.
Matthew Gilbert-Aranoff is a seasoned business manager with over 15 years of experience specializing in representing digital creators, traditional Hollywood professionals, athletes, and musicians. As an enthusiastic futurist, he constantly keeps an eye on how emerging technologies are transforming his industry. While managing a roster of recognizable names, Matthew finds great joy in working with up-and-coming talent to help build strong habits as a foundation for their future success.
Andrew B. Crow, CPA, MST, Managing Director
Gelfand, Rennert, & Feldman LLC
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Joining Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Board of Trustees
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… Early on in my career, I learned that it is OK to say you don’t know or don’t have the answer but can seek a solution.
Andrew specializes in providing all facets of business management and family office services for A-list talent including actors, writers, directors, producers, singer-songwriters, senior entertainment executives, and high-net-worth individuals.
Katie Hagen, Senior Manager
Gelfand, Rennert, & Feldman LLC
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… Never stop learning and always take on new opportunities to develop your skill set. This was advice my dad gave me earlier on in my career and still holds true today.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… Use technology to our advantage to increase productivity and efficiency to ultimately be able to provide even better client service.
Katie Hagen is a Senior Manager with Gelfand, Rennert & Feldman, LLC, a leading business and financial management firm. Katie began her career in public accounting, focusing on federal and state compliance matters for private equity and closely held businesses and high net-worth individuals. Katie has been at GRF for four years and manages the financial and related business affairs of musicians, artists, film executives, and high-net-worth individuals.
Darin Jones, Business Manager
Gelfand, Rennert, & Feldman LLC
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Make sure to meet with your investment advisors to make sure investment plans are in line with their prior setup expectations.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Being recognized by Trusted Advisors.
Business manager with over 20 years of experience. I am a trusted CPA advisor to entertainment clients which include Music, Film, TV, high-net-worth individuals, Influencers and athletes. Music and Film clients have been the main focus throughout this time.
Eduardo J. Pabellón, CPA, Managing Director
Gelfand, Rennert, & Feldman LLC
Eduardo J. Pabellon is a Managing Director at Gelfand Rennert and Feldman, where he became a partner in 2023 following the firm’s acquisition of the business management firm WG&S in 2019. Eduardo began his career in business management in 2007 at the firm GLWG, working closely with clients in TV, film, music, and high-net-worth families. The firm became WG&S in 2009, where Eduardo continued to expand his expertise, providing comprehensive financial services including cross-border tax coordination, estate, financial, and retirement planning, and handling the intricacies of music tours. Eduardo has been involved in helping clients capitalize on tax incentives in Puerto Rico, advising on the acquisition of closely held businesses, and the sale of music intellectual property. His strategic approach to financial management has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor to high-net-worth individuals in entertainment and ultra-high-net-worth families. Eduardo holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance and is a California-licensed CPA. He is an active member of the California Society of CPAs, serves on the Board of the Natalie Cole Foundation, and is a member of the City of Hope Future Hope Leadership Group. He also lends his expertise to various entertainment-based non-profits. Eduardo’s leadership philosophy centers on being humble enough to know your limits but having the confidence to know you can overcome them.
Deborah Haylock, Business Manager
Ground Control Business Managemnet
As a business manager, Deborah maintains excellent verbal and written communication with high net worth high profile individuals in the entertainment industry while handling tax management and daily accounting.
Rachel Martinez, Managing Director
Ground Control Business Management
Rachel has built her career in business management working with clients and their teams to execute financial plans and achieve business goals. Her clients represent a broad spectrum of the entertainment industry from traditional to digital.
Kathy Izaguirre, Director of Business Management
Gursey Schneider LLP
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Now that you’ve paid in your taxes and paid yourself, invest the gravy and put your money to work!
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… Continue to optimize and leverage my relationships so I can continue to stay current with industry trends/happenings and offer my clients the best information, resources, knowledge & service.
Born and raised in Los Angeles with over 20 years of experience in Entertainment Business Management. I attribute my success to having been mentored by some of the industry’s veteran leaders early on in my career. My ability to nurture client relationships has always been and continues to be one of my biggest assets. I’ve had the honor & privilege to work with some of the biggest names in Music, film/tv/production, branding, Sports/Pro-Athletes
Travis Guterman, CPA, MBT, Partner
Guterman & Rosenberg
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Make retirement contributions.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Competing in my first Jiu Jitsu tournaments.
Travis Guterman, CPA is a business manager for digital talent, traditional entertainers, and professional athletes. He received his Master of Business Taxation from the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business.
Simon Rosenberg, CPA, Partner
Guterman & Rosenberg
Simon is a partner at Guterman & Rosenberg. He specializes in advising musicians, digital creators and high-net-worth individuals on tax planning, investment and retirement planning, asset acquisition, and insurance risk management. He was born and raised in Los Angeles and studied accounting at San Diego State University. In his free time, he loves to travel and explore new restaurants.
Mara Hofman, CPA, Partner
HCVT
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… Good Health.
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… The best advice I’ve ever received is to treat everyone with respect and kindness. By valuing each individual, we not only inspire motivation but also drive success. In the words of Maya Angelou: ‘People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.’”
Mara Hofman is the Co-Managing Partner of the Business Management and Family Office practice at HCVT. Mara provides personalized business management, family office, and accounting services to high-net-worth individuals and business entities. Her entertainment clientele includes television and film finance companies, actors, directors, writers, and producers. She provides services tailored to her clients’ specific goals and assists them in preserving and protecting their assets.
Kelly Brennan-Kleyn, CPA, Founder/CEO
KBK Management
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Max out your 401k contributions – and don’t buy things you don’t need just for the tax write-off.
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… In Antarctica, the cruise director responsible for the kayak excursions said, “Sign up for the ‘hardest’ one (5/5). You’re a girl – you think you’re a 2 but you’re likely a 3 or 4. The older guys think they are 5’s – they are also likely a 3 or a 4. You’ll all be about the same – and it’s the best trip.” He was right. And I got to kayak through sea ice next to penguins.
Kelly is the founder of KBK Management, a boutique business management firm specializing in touring artists and large-scale events. She is energized by the electricity of a crowd, all gathered for the shared experience of a live show.
At KBK Management, we love helping artists, creatives, and event producers put on financially successful productions – from 300-capacity club runs to worldwide stadium tours. We also love helping our clients understand their finances, so they can make informed decisions in their business and personal lives with confidence. Kelly has worked in music since she was 17, including years at CAA and a decade on tour with many of the biggest names in the business. She is excited to bring 20+ years of experience, plus a fantastic team of business managers, tour accountants, and CPAs, to build KBK Management.
Ashley Jeanette, Director, Business Management
KBK Management
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… In 2024, I would like to keep finding new revenue sources for clients. The industry is always changing and you have to evolve with it.
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… Hours in a day.
Ashley Jeanette is a Nashville native with over 15 years of experience in the music industry. She began her career at a record label ultimately finding her passion in touring and business management. Ashley believes that being service-minded is the key to success and that helping clients reach their personal and professional goals is the best part of the job.
Jason Schneider, CPA, MST, Partner
Kessler Schneider & Scheltinga
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… To get my clients who were negatively impacted by the dual strikes of 2023 back on solid financial footing and to clear some of their anxieties about Hollywood’s future.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Welcomed my first child, in the middle of tax season no less!
A 3rd generation business manager born and raised in Los Angeles, Jason saw firsthand growing up the positive and meaningful influence business managers can have on their clients. The relationship is more than business-oriented, it’s familial and personal. There was never a doubt that he’d pursue any other career. His clientele now includes prominent actors, showrunners, producers, podcasters, influencers & talent agencies.
Kristin Lee, Managing Director
KLBM
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Pay your taxes.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… I fulfilled a longtime dream of opening a wine shop.
Kristin Lee, founder of KLBM, is an international business manager with over 20 years of experience in entertainment and athletics. Based in Los Angeles, Nashville, and Seattle, KLBM offers comprehensive financial support to top artists, entertainers, and athletes worldwide, focusing on intricate tax and business structures. Kristin is dedicated to fostering her clients’ growth and success across diverse business operations, guiding them through the dynamic entertainment industry and expanding their brands beyond.
Steven Palin, Director of Operations
KLBM
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… The business management scene is ripe for disruption, especially from the tech and banking perspectives. This is all happening during a time when newcomers are entering, starting their own firms, and beginning to demonstrate that they can push this role into the future. I think we’re on the precipice of big changes in entertainment business management within the next few years, and my goal is to make sure our firm adapts properly and even leads the way where we can.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… My team’s successes are my responsibility. I’m very proud of the accelerating personal growth, and growth as a firm that we’re experiencing. I’m watching our group take an active involvement in growing this firm, from growing our Touring, Taxes and Royalties departments, down to improving the smallest details in daily bookkeeping. We’re navigating our growing pains with grace, and it’s a testament to the team we’ve assembled. I’m very proud of the ownership our team takes and I see that it will lead to great achievements in their careers.
At 15 years old, Steven’s first experience in entertainment found him in the form of working the door and the soundboard at an all-ages punk venue. This led him to talent buying, ticketing, artist management, and working with drag performers. Now, As the Director of Operations at KLBM, Steven guides the direction and growth of the firm drawing from this broad scope of experience. Through it all, it’s his earnest authenticity and service-centered approach that has led to where he is today.
Lauren Cooper, CPA, Founder/CEO
LC Business Management Inc.
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… Time! Time to spend investing in my staff and their training, time with clients helping them to grow and expand their careers, time growing our own new firm, and maybe a little time for a walk in the park with my best four-legged friend Buddy 🙂
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Launching LC Business Management this year has been a personal achievement but is also a milestone for my whole team of accounting professionals who have worked alongside me for many years, and also for my clients who have supported me throughout my business management journey, some of them since almost the beginning. It has been a very special time for all of us to celebrate this next chapter and we are excited for what comes next.
Lauren has been practicing business management with a focus on clients in the music industry for 15 years. In 2024 she launched her own business management practice, LC Business Management Inc., with the goal of providing a personalized and relationship-driven business management experience for each of her clients.
Adam Elman, Business Manager
LC Business Management Inc.
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… Having joined a firm launched this year by my mentor, a goal for me is to continue to learn from her and to grow the newly founded practice alongside her.
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… Time.
With nearly a decade of experience working with touring artists, live music venues, music producers, and record labels I have experienced the music business through every facet. This has allowed me to provide my clients with unparalleled expertise. Beyond work, I can be found enjoying the nice weather on the beach or lounging around with one of the puppies I foster.
Nicholas Judd, CEO
Leftbrain
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… To establish a new division within Leftbrain, dedicated to another sector of the sports and entertainment industries. Building on our extensive expertise in music, this expansion will enable us to broaden our business management services and cultivate deep subject matter expertise in this new area.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Over the past year, Leftbrain’s leadership team has significantly expanded, empowering me to focus more on strategic business development rather than day-to-day operations. I initially had concerns about how our clients would respond when I delegated client responsibilities to Nicholas Brema and Graham Helser, even though our clients had approved this change. Since this transition, our client satisfaction scores have reached unprecedented levels, and we’ve seen a twofold increase in inbound client referrals. It has proven to be the most impactful decision we could have made for our firm’s growth and client relationships!
Nicholas Judd, MBA, is the CEO and Founder of Leftbrain, a tech-enabled business management firm headquartered in Los Angeles, CA. Nicholas leads Leftbrain in revolutionizing the music industry by leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, transparency, and client satisfaction. Under his leadership, Leftbrain boasts industry-leading client retention rates and satisfaction scores and has doubled in size nearly every year since its founding, setting new standards in entertainment business management.
Stephanie L. Green, Partner, Business Manager
Legacy Business Management Group
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Enjoy! Enjoy this time with family and loved ones. Reflect on the past year, look forward to the future. Be grateful. And, Give. Be charitable. Relish this time with loved ones, friends and family as it is intended and do not get lost in the commercialism or the material distractions. Not standard Business Management advice, I know. But I also believe in clients being reminded that everything isn’t about money. Maybe a little crazy for a financial advisor to say, but I try to take a slightly more real-life, authentic approach. Sure, we do the usual financial review and financial/tax planning but when I say everything isn’t about money, it’s because I try to foster a healthy relationship with money for my clients. Some spend, some save, some worry. I offer assurances, plan accordingly for each client’s particular needs and wants. There are some that require more hands-on guidance, that require a firm no and others that are very comfortable in and with their current circumstance. We can’t lose sight of what is important, and keeping what is important at the forefront lends itself to inspiration, driving their passion and continued success and happiness. What good is life if you’re always stressing about money? I try to encourage them to live their lives, find their joy, prioritize what is important, not to live in fear nor to live too frivolously – to strike a balance, and one that fits their financial means. This time of year is always a good time of year for reflection, to assess the very distinct differences between needs and wants. I like the idea of this time of year being a thoughtful time. I also find it’s a revealing time of year. I learn new things about my clients, about their changing wants, needs and goals. It will often lead to the reprioritization of our financial planning. As time passes, the big picture is often evolving and I like being on this journey with them.
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… Growth. Not just in terms of business, per se. I welcome growth for Legacy Business Management because I want my team to have opportunities and to succeed as well. I want them to be able to grow professionally and personally. I also want to grow personally and professionally. There is always something to learn, and always more life experience and wisdom to attain.
Ms. Green has been in her field for 36 years. She worked with a couple of full-service premier CPA firms over the decades, both of which specialized in forensic accounting and litigation support, before she launched her own business management firm in January 2020. Today, in addition to loving her work and providing personal, concierge-level services to her clients she enjoys travel, photography and her pets.
Laura Rutebuka, CPA, Director of Business Management
Lifeline Financial Group
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… Increasing the focus on financial education as a core part of our profession. I love talking with clients and spending all the time necessary to talk through any questions they have about their finances or to help expand their understanding of financial concepts. Our job may be to manage their money, but increasing personal financial knowledge is something that can’t be outsourced yet can have an immeasurable impact on creating generational wealth.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Being able to help a client achieve all of her short-term goals ahead of schedule and having the fun conversation of needing to set new goals sooner than expected.
Laura is a Business Manager with over 17 years of experience in the accounting and entertainment industries. Laura specializes in business management and taxation services for entertainers, athletes, high-net-worth families, and production companies. This includes helping clients manage their day to day finances as well as achieve their short and long-term financial goals.
Marius Bercovici, Partner, Business Manager
LL Business Management, Inc.
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Plan for the disaster.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… More financial awareness of the clients.
He has over thirty years of public accounting and business management experience in the Entertainment, Sports, Real Estate, Restaurant and Hospitality industries. Marius’s areas of expertise include Tax Preparation and Strategy, Tax Compliance, Governmental Audits, and Management and Consulting. Marius Bercovici was a junior Member of the AICPA. Marius graduated from the City University of New York at Queens College with a BA in Accounting and Economics.
Trey Files, CPA, Partner
LL Business Management, Inc.
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… Available IRS agents on the practitioner priority service line.
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… Before my career as a CPA, I was a professional musician. Once during a rehearsal, a conductor named John Whitwell noted that most musicians will spend more time rehearsing/practicing than performing; as a result, many of the most profound musical moments of our lives would occur in a rehearsal or practice room instead of on stage. It was a wonderful reminder to always remain open to great experiences regardless of time or place, as they are often unplanned and unexpected.
Trey has been with LL Business Management since 2016, providing both tax preparation and business management services. A significant portion of his practice is dedicated to cross-border compliance, including tax planning for US residents with foreign financial concerns and Central Withholding Agreements for non-resident entertainers.
Lori Graf, Partner
LL Management Group West Inc.
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Be informed and knowledgable about your taxes and liabilities, and understand how to maintain and improve financial stability for the coming year. Always ask questions… it’s your money.
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… The person who speaks first loses. Always let the opposite side of a negotiation speak first. (Former boss).
I started my career in the banking world where I managed finances for many high-profile actors, directors, athletes, and musicians throughout the eighties and nineties. In 2003, I made the jump to partner with a client and we branched out on our own and started LL Business Management, LLC. We are a boutique company based in Woodland Hills, currently managing the finances of mostly musicians (artists, big touring bands and writer/producers) and other entertainment related clients. My partner is the CPA/tax expert and I manage client relations. My approach is very maternal and my greatest joy is educating young talent on the transparent ins-and-outs of the business. Every artist deserves to understand how much money they have made, how all of the commissions are paid out to their team, be prepared for annual taxes, and actaully know what is left in the bank account. I want to teach smart wealth management to set my clients up for life-long success.
Justin Kobay, CPA, Partner
LL Business Management, Inc.
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Reflect on the triumphs and failures of this past year. Make sure you build on the triumphs, and never make the same failures again.
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… To give more good news than bad to clients.
Justin Kobay is a Partner at LL Business Management, Inc. and its affiliate Seckendorf Hasson Reilly & Kobay CPA’s, LLC. Justin’s passion for music combined with his accounting/finance experience led him to make the transition into business management. Since then, he has grown LL Business Management’s client base to include some of the most successful recording artists, producers, songwriters, entrepreneurs, and executives in the industry. At LL Business Management, Justin specializes in all aspects of client representation on both a professional and personal level. Additionally, he is well versed in foreign and domestic tax issues for Artists performing in the U.S. and internationally.
Venicia Mestey, Business Manager
LL Business Management, Inc.
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Reflect on your achievements and set goals for the upcoming year. Also, ask your accountant for a full picture of your current financial situation as well as a cash flow projection for the upcoming year. Perfect time to start budgeting and making changes.
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… “Be confident when pursuing what you want” – Angie Martinez
With over 21 years of experience, Venicia has led in a multitude of functions including operations execution, relationship and fiscal management, and client corporation consultation. Venicia’s strategic leadership has been instrumental in the success of LL Business Management, Inc. since joining 2002. Venicia’s success and execution as a visionary has led to her recent promotion as the first Latina partner for the firm. She is driven to take the knowledge that she has acquired within her career and apply it directly to leading the expansion efforts in establishing the firm’s International Division currently focused on growing its footprint within the Latin American market. Aside from Venicia’s time at LL Business Management, she is the CEO of the world-renowned Heavy Hitter DJ conglomerate. This collective consists of 117+ global DJ’s who are responsible for opening new markets, exploring all genres, increasing diversity, and remaining true advocates of the universal language of music. Venicia is also a member of the Recording Academy where she has the voice and opportunity to be an advocate for creators’ rights in the name of music. Philanthropically Venicia sits as the founder of The Heavy Hitters Foundation, Inc. a non-for-profit that has a positive impact for underprivileged children. They identify groups of children globally by raising funds to further develop their education and provide them with the necessary resources to build a brighter future. Venicia also sits as the Chief Marketing Director for Angels 4 Autism, a non for profit working to provide medical services for underprivileged children within the local community. Interacting with Venicia is knowing that you are engaging a leader who is passionate about community, developing an organization/team, and improving what is in place today for a stronger tomorrow.
Bruce Seckendorf, CPA, Partner
LL Business Management, Inc.
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… No tax return extensions.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… I would like to see all business managers have C.P.A. credentials.
Founder and partner in L.L. Business Entertainment, Inc. We have offices in N.Y.C., L.A., as well as Nassau County.
Juan Rodriguez, CPA, Founder
Lodgz Financial PLLC
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Don’t wait until the last hour to complete year-end items such as retirement contributions, final payroll runs, and payments you’d like processed prior to 12/31. December is one of the busiest months of the year for our firm. Completing these items in advance will ensure that you can enjoy the holidays and take time to reflect on the year completed.
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… “A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that suddenly presents itself is worthless if you’re not in the right position to capitalize on it” – Rick Ross.
Juan Rodriguez is the Founder of Lodgz Financial PLLC, a boutique business management firm serving digital creators. He is a graduate from Auburn University, where he received his undergraduate degree in accounting in 2018. He is also a CPA in the state of Florida. Before launching his firm, Juan was an Auditor at big-four public accounting firm Ernst & Young.
Lahteefah M. Parramore, CPA, CEO/Owner
The LRW Group
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… My advice for clients would be to ensure your foundation is firmly established and prepared for you to achieve your goals for next year. Key foundational items; tax planning and strategy, tour planning and budgeting, request a semi-annual royalty desk review, and estate planning update.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Courageously and prayerfully starting The LRW Group; which will be one of the number one accounting, advisory and business management firm that understands the importance of inculcating the foundational skills of business management coupled with the new business model that forges forward financial freedom and closes the gap of cultural diaspora .
Lateefah M. Parramore, CPA, is the driving force behind The LRW Group, bringing over two decades of holistic financial expertise as a Certified Public Accountant licensed in the States of Florida and Delaware. Former Entertainment Division Partner at global accounting and advisory firm Prager Metis, CPA LLCs. Her roles span includes CEO, Business Manager, Accounting Leader, CFO, Board Member, and Catalyst. Lateefah’s client advisory approach focuses on understanding unique desires, aligning financial goals with needs, and connecting clients with essential resources.The mission of The LRW group is to provide a holistic service model for clients that integrates the Business, the Brand, the financial Behavior, and the emotional/spiritual connection that manifests into Real Wealth. Her and Her team’s extensive expertise includes Accounting Advisory, Tour Accounting, Royalty Accounting and Audits, Tax Strategy, CFO services, strategic business planning, cash flow management, and negotiating multi-million-dollar deals in entertainment and private equity sectors. She is affectionally credited with discovering the Hood Hottest Princess. She has worked with some of the hottest top charting artist and top performing athletes based in the US and is currently expanding her practice to the Global South.
Anthony Smalls III, CPA, CGMA, Entertainment, Sports & Media Industry Leader, MGO
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Taking a client that was completely cash focused and teaching them about investments and watching them implement that advice and grow their investments.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… The key change I want to make in business management is eliminating the siloed, desk-service model traditionally used. Instead, firms should adopt a team-based approach, where collaboration is prioritized over having a single point of contact for clients. By enabling individuals to operate at their highest value within a collective framework, firms can foster greater collaboration, leading to better insights and best practices being applied to meet client needs and demands.
Tony is a partner at MGO and heads its Entertainment, Sports, and Media practice, bringing over 27 years of expertise in business management and tax services. His career began at a Big Four firm in Atlanta, where he worked as an auditor and senior consultant in management solutions & services. Tony specializes in advising cultural icons, top athletes, and high-net-worth individuals on accounting, finance, tax strategy, financial planning, financial reporting, and contract negotiations. His role spans comprehensive financial management and strategic guidance across diverse sectors within the entertainment industry.
Elizabeth Campos, Co-founder/Partner
Evolve Business Management
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Consider making meaningful donations to qualified non-profits. It’s a great way to secure tax write-offs while supporting a worthy cause.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… The launch of my new Business Management Practice, Evolve Business Management which will go live 9/1/24!
With a rich tapestry of 26 years of experience, I have passionately dedicated my career to serving clients in the dynamic landscape of the Entertainment industry and among high-net-worth individuals. My main goal is to safeguard and maintain our clients’ wealth through careful and strategic business practices. In a world that constantly evolves, I remain steadfast in my commitment to ethical business practices, client-centric values and the pursuit of excellence.
Allan Edward Mesia, ESQ., CPA, Business Manager
Mesia Group PA
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… If we have not already, consider maximizing your tax advantageous retirement contributions. Also make sure your conscience of your cash flow over the next 6-12 months, as many clients income fluctuates greatly throughout the year.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… We have and continue to use the latest technology to run an efficient and effective practice that focuses on client transparency and relevant reporting, as well as a dynamic work environment for our employees to learn and grow.
Allan Edward Mesia is the founder of Mesia Group, P.A., a tech-forward, full-service business management firm that serves passionate clients in the entertainment, sports, fashion/apparel and tech industries. His unique background allows him to service clients with all aspects of business management, tax and financial consulting.
Van Lee, CPA, Partner
MGGGY
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… Universities and Colleges to have Business degrees tailored to the entertainment industry.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Professionally, the overgrowth of our firm. Personally, obtaining a build permit for our new home after 4 long years of planning.
In 2018, Van joined MGGGY and became a partner in 2021. She is business manager and tax advisor to her clients which include high net-worth individuals and families, entrepreneurs, entertainers, writers, directors, showrunners and producers.
Justin Sroka, CPA, Partner
MGGGY
The best advice I was ever given… Don’t sweat the small stuff
The smartest person I know is… My wife.
Justin is a Partner in the Business Management group at MGGGY and is a trusted advisor to his diverse and international client base including actors, writers, directors, musicians, comedians, influencers, athletes, entrepreneurs and high net-worth individuals in the entertainment industry. He advises clients in all aspects of their financial lives and provides high-quality personalized services to fit their needs. Justin is experienced in tax planning and accounting strategies and guides clients to maximize and preserve wealth.
Buwa Ijirigho, CPA, Director
MGO
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Signing a Grammy-nominated musician and two Emmy-winning actors to the family.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… One of my biggest pet peeves about our industry is onboarding a new client who has financial issues & their previous business management team never made it explicitly clear to them that they had these issues. It’s infuriating & happens too often! As a trusted advisor, it’s our duty to broach those tough conversations early & often; no matter how difficult. What else are our clients paying us for?
Operating from Century City, my clientele spans across a diverse spectrum, encompassing film/TV luminaries both in front of and behind the camera, musicians, athletes, digital-media influencers, and high-net-worth individuals. Born in Phoenix, Arizona to Nigerian immigrants, my approach to client service centers on communication, care, and accountability. I tackle tough conversations fearlessly, relying on honesty, meticulous attention to detail, and proactive strategies to navigate my clients’ financial trajectories. My professional journey began at Ernst & Young LLP, where I honed my skills in auditing and advising Fortune 500 companies. Leveraging this rich experience, I seamlessly transitioned into the realm of business management, channeling my expertise to assist individuals in sculpting their financial destinies and cultivating enduring wealth.
Michael Meschures, MBA, Business Management Partner
MGO
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… Time. So I can spend more of it with my family.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… As of June 1, I became partner.
Michael Meschures, a second-generation business manager, has over a decade of experience working with clients in entertainment, sports, media, and high-net-worth families. As a leader in business management, he excels in wealth preservation and financial decision-making, while his team effectively addresses clients’ daily challenges. Meschures has been instrumental in expanding MGO’s entertainment, sports, and media practice.
William Price, MBA, Business Management, Director
MGO
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Let’s reflect and reset for next year.
The smartest person I know is… For peace, my wife. In this context, John Blakeman. In reality, the smartest decisions come out of discussions between people with different perspectives.
Will attended UC Santa Barbara, receiving his bachelor’s degree in Economics and later USC for his Master of Business Administration. He specializes in business management, tax and financial planning for clients in the film and television, digital media and arts industries.
Ryan Conlon, CPA, MBA, Partner
Neuman + Associates
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… One of my MBA professors had a saying that went “when you are stressed, tired, and overwhelmed, that is not the time to contemplate the meaning of life.” We work in a fast-paced business that can be full of competing pressures, and thinking about this saying always helps me stay focused and clear-headed.
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… Time.
Ryan Conlon is responsible for managing the business and financial affairs of high net worth individuals in the entertainment industry, including actors, writers, directors, producers, musicians, authors and entertainment executives. Prior to Business Management, Ryan had a diverse career holding leadership positions on national concert tours and a jazz record label, and was engaged as a finance and strategy consultant for AEG Live and Goldenvoice. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Texas A&M University and a Masters Degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern California.
Yana Romano, Director of Business Management
NKSFB
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Don’t wait till the end of the year to start an emergency fund. It’s never too late to save.
The best advice I was ever given… Surround yourself with the right people.
Yana Romano began her career as a Senior Manager in a boutique Business Management firm based in NYC. For over 20 years she specialized in working with entertainment industry professionals, providing strategic business and financial advice and solutions to actors, musicians, film and television directors, writers and producers, high net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and executives in the entertainment fields.
Megan Goodrich, Senior Account Manager
PARR/3
Megan is a Senior Account Manager at Parr3 LLC. She graduated from the University of Southern California in 2017 with a degree in Business and a minor in Music Industry. Megan believes in a personalized approach with each of her clients, helping them build a better financial future while supporting their creative endeavors.
Bryan Gott, Director of Business Management
PARR/3
Bryan began his Business Management career with Parr3 in 2014 shortly after moving to Los Angeles. Over the years he has worked directly with the firm’s diverse roster of entertainment clients while helping to build new systems and training programs for all staff. As the Director of Business Management Bryan guides and supports Parr3’s business management team, facilitating the firm’s growth and unique culture.
Mike Merriman, President
PARR/3
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… We’re celebrating Parr3’s 10th year as a firm and we have so much to be proud of. The culture of the company, now over 40 people strong spread across a handful of states, has evolved into something very powerful. It’s a priority here to nurture talent and grow our skills as a team so we’re thrilled to see even more of our leaders on lists like this one.
In 2013, Mike Merriman created PARR3 LLC, a non-traditional business management company serving clients primarily in the music industry. Since then, he has built a team of account managers who collectively represent nearly 100 clients. Over the past decade, the Parr3 team has worked with hundreds of artists in various stages of their careers. Mike Merriman graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management from The University of Colorado Boulder. He has experience working in most corners of the music industry over the last 18 years, including management, touring, record promotion, and business consulting. Mike provides bottom-line accountability for his clients, making sure finances are fair and accurate every step of the way. He is an active member of his client’s team, partnering with artists and their managers to make sound and informed financial decisions.
Odette Moradians, Senior Account Manager
PARR/3
My name is Odette Moradians and I’m a Senior Account Manager at Parr3 LLC. I graduated from California State University Northridge in 2017 with my Bachelors in Accountancy. I’ve been working at Parr3 for 6 years now, and couldn’t be happier knowing the changes we’re making in the business management world and also our clients by building trust and lifelong relationships. In my free time, I enjoy spending time at the beach, playing catch with my dog, and I’m a big foodie so I love trying new restaurants in the Los Angeles area.
Brandon Russell, Executive Acccount Manager
PARR/3
Brandon Russell is an executive account manager at Parr3. He graduated from the University of Southern California with a major in music industry and a minor in jazz studies. Since 2015, he’s been at Parr3 working hand in hand with clients and developing systems catered to each of their businesses. He has a passion for helping artists navigate the industry and empowering them to be effective CEOs.
Sunny Sanghera, Executive Account Manager
PARR/3
Sunny is an executive account manager at PARR/3. Born and raised in Chicago, he is celebrating 10 years at the firm this fall, where he got his start as an intern while earning his degree at the University of Southern California. Since then he’s had the pleasure of working with some of the top talent in music and sports, leaving no stone unturned in his advocacy for his clients.
Andre Sayadian, CPA, Tax Director
PARR/3
Andre Sayadian, CPA, is a highly skilled Tax Director at Parr3. With over 12 years of experience in the industry, he has developed a deep understanding of the unique financial and tax challenges faced by creative professionals. Andre excels in providing tailored tax planning and compliance services, ensuring that clients maximize their financial opportunities while remaining compliant with all relevant tax regulations. Known for a meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach, Andre helps navigate complex tax issues, from income tax preparation and strategic planning, to international tax planning. In addition to technical expertise, Andre is celebrated for building strong, trusting relationships with clients, offering personalized advice that empowers them to achieve both their financial and artistic goals.
Simone Agdomar, ACCA
Prager Metis
The smartest person I know is… The smartest person I knew was my grandfather; he has sadly passed now. He may not have had any formal qualifications or held any fancy degrees, but his wisdom and intelligence surpass that of anyone I have ever met. From a young age, I was always in awe of his ability to solve any problem that came his way, whether it be fixing a broken appliance or offering advice on a complex life issue. My grandfather’s intelligence shone through in his incredible problem-solving skills. Whenever I encountered a challenging math problem or a difficult decision, he always had a creative solution or a different perspective. His methods were always simple yet effective, cutting through the noise and getting straight to the heart of the issue. His deep understanding of human nature and emotions sets my grandfather apart from others. He had a remarkable ability to empathize with people and see things from their perspective, making him an excellent listener and advisor. Whenever I struggled, he always had the right words to say, comfort me, and guide me towards a solution. One of the things I admired the most about my grandfather was his insatiable thirst for knowledge. Despite his age, he was constantly learning and exploring new ideas. He watched educational documentaries and engaged in stimulating conversations with people from all walks of life. His curiosity and open-mindedness allowed him to accumulate a wealth of knowledge that he generously shared with others.
Simone Agdomar is an Assistant Manager in the Entertainment and Music Group of Prager Metis LLP, a member of Prager Metis International Group. Simone adeptly navigates the intricacies of Business Management, Tour Accounting, FEU Applications, Self-assessment Tax Returns, Financial Statements, and Corporation Tax Returns. She works with clients across various industries, including entertainment, music, and high-net-worth individuals.
Abiola Badmus, FCCA, CAT, Director of Accounts & Business Management, Prager Metis
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Our business management department has experienced remarkable growth, becoming the largest in our London Office. I’m incredibly proud of our team’s development. Witnessing the progression of team members from trainees to mentors has been particularly rewarding. Three years ago, we were a team of ten, five of whom were trainee accountants. Today, we are sixteen industry professionals and four trainees now qualify as accountants. This growth reflects our department’s success and commitment to nurturing talent in the entertainment industry. This summer, our London office will participate in Bankside Futures, a charity-led event encouraging and inspiring local 16 to 18-year-olds with mentorship opportunities and professional writing workshops. This will allow our team to foster relationships with the next generation of accountants and industry professionals. Two team members will be actively involved, sharing their expertise and real-life examples.
Abiola Badmus is a Director of Accounts and Business Management at Prager Metis LLP, a member of Prager Metis International Group. She has worked in the accounting industry for more than 15 years. Her clients are principally in the Music Sector, although she also works with several sportspersons, actors, High-Net-Worth Individuals, and their entities. She provides Business Management Services and advises on accounting, tax, VAT, and payroll issues.
Joseph P. Callaghan, CPA, Partner
Prager Metis
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Maximize all retirement plans and review year-end investments for potential sale.
Joseph Callaghan is a Partner in the Tax and Advisory Services Department of Prager Metis, a member of Prager Metis International Group. He has been in the accounting profession for over 30 years, and he provides family office and business management services to a varied client base, including businesses, high-net-worth individuals, entertainers, and their families.
Mark Carter, FCCA, Partner
Prager Metis
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… The one thing I want to change about business management is the communication speed between artists, their teams, and business managers. Too often, the business manager is informed about major decisions, such as touring plans, at the last minute. This late notice can significantly impact the ability to implement financial strategies, especially in international tax planning. When clients tour overseas, many territories offer opportunities to reduce tax liabilities through an advanced application process. The application process is time-sensitive and requires a filing period of 30 to 45 days before a show or payment. Having your business manager be part of the early stages of the planning process and communicating in a timely manner will help clients take advantage of tax implications and ensure they maximize their profits.
Mark Carter is a Partner in the Business Management and Advisory departments of Prager Metis LLP, a member of Prager Metis International Group. He is currently based in our London office and has worked in the accounting industry for over 20 years. Mark works with a wide range of clients within the music and entertainment industry.
Scott Dunnachie, ACA, Senior Manager
Prager Metis
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is to build new and lasting relationships with other advisors in the entertainment industry. The opportunity to discuss and share ideas with like-minded professionals will allow me to improve the service I provide to my clients. I always push myself to expand my knowledge and experience across all entertainment and music industry aspects. By collaborating with other experts in the industry, I can continue to grow as a trusted advisor to my clients. I also want to work with my current and new clients over the next year to help them achieve their financial and personal goals. Being their accountant is about far more than just the numbers. It’s about guiding and mentoring them through the good and challenging times. I’ve had the opportunity in the past year to see several clients make it on the biggest of stages, and next year is all about helping the next generation of musicians and entertainers take that step.
Scott Dunnachie is a Senior Manager at Prager Metis LLP, a member of Prager Metis International Group. He has more than ten years of experience in the accounting industry. He is a qualified Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). Scott specializes in business management and provides accounting and tax services to a large portfolio of clients, predominantly in the music, entertainment, and technology industries.
Joseph Rust, CPA, CFP, Chief Strategic Innovation Officer
Prager Metis
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… As an accountant and a leader, I have a responsibility to embrace change and help my firm and my clients adapt and thrive in the new environment. That is why a goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is to become a catalyst for digital transformation, innovation, and collaboration in the accounting field. One of the ways I plan to achieve this goal is by helping my firm continue its path of digital transformation. This means leveraging the power of data analytics, artificial intelligence, software solutions to enhance our services’ quality, efficiency, and value. I want to be at the forefront of adopting and implementing these technologies in our audit, tax, and advisory practices and to share our insights and best practices with our clients and stakeholders. I also want to foster a culture of continuous learning and upskilling among my team members so they can develop the digital competencies and mindsets essential for the future of accounting. Another way I plan to achieve this goal is by developing a strong culture of innovation for my team members. This means encouraging them to think creatively, experiment with new ideas, and challenge the status quo. I want to create a safe and supportive environment where they can express their opinions, share their feedback, and learn from their failures.
A third way I plan to achieve this goal is by collaborating with others in the accounting profession on innovation and helping the accounting profession. This means building and maintaining strong relationships with our peers, California Society of CPAs, regulators, standard-setters, academics, and industry associations.
Joseph Rust is the Chief Strategic Innovation Officer (CSIO) and Managing Partner for the Western Region at Prager Metis. As CSIO, Joseph oversees and advises on all aspects of strategic focus, direction, and execution and encourages a culture of innovation. He works closely with our team to implement new solutions to better serve firm clients and supports our growing team. Joseph takes great pride in providing high-value service to his clients, including acting in a strategic planning role for his business management clients and advocating for his royalty and profit participation clients. With several decades of experience and a unique process that leverages technology, Joseph and his team have been able to recover royalties and provide exceptional service to their clients, resulting in enormous benefits for them.
Thomas F. Smith, CPA, Partner & Entertainment Industry Leader
Prager Metis
The best advice I was ever given… You can always do more; as long as you’re proud of what you’ve done, it’s enough.
Thomas Smith is a Partner of Prager Metis, a member of Prager Metis International. He also serves as Partner-in-Charge of the Entertainment & Music group and has over 25 years of experience in the accounting industry. Thomas provides business management, consulting, tax, and accounting services to a varied client base, including businesses, individuals, entertainers, and their families.
Simon Winters, FCA, Partner
Prager Metis
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… The run-up to the end of the year always provides a good time to evaluate clients’ financial roadmap. Around this time of year, I generally review the following questions with clients:
- Is there any flexibility in the timing of when income is received or when business costs are incurred, and is there any tax benefit of them being accelerated or deferred?
- Have you utilised available pensions, savings, and similar allowances or reliefs?
- Have sufficient funds been set aside to fund forthcoming tax liabilities?
- Have your circumstances changed (e.g., you have had a child), affecting your short, medium, and long-term plans?
While these are a few questions to review, having several discussions with clients all year round will ensure that their tailored strategy will help keep their personal and financial goals in check.
Simon Winters, FCA, is a Partner in the Audit and Accounting, Tax Services, and Advisory Services Departments of Prager Metis LLP, a member of Prager Metis International Group. Simon is an integral part of the International Services Group and is the International Services UK/Europe Coordinator. He has been in the accounting industry for more than 25 years and works with clients across a range of industries, including entertainment, music, and sports, as well as high-net-worth individuals.
Michelle Cope, Senior Account Manager
PSBM
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Take some time to sit back and reflect on what has happened in the past year. Did you accomplish your goals? What were the best parts of your year? How would you like the next year to look? Connect with your team and collaborate on ways working together can bring your visions to fruition.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Executing a financial plan that helped a client purchase their dream home!
Michelle’s deep-rooted passion for music led her to graduate summa cum laude from SUNY Fredonia with degrees in Business Administration (Music Industry) and Vocal Opera Performance. Since joining PS Business Management in 2016, she has developed a diverse roster of musicians, artists, and athletes. Michelle strives to make financial information engaging and accessible for her clients while creating strategies to ensure their long-term success. Now residing in Nashville after living in New York, she is studying for the CFP® certification and continues her philanthropic efforts through pro bono work for various nonprofits.
Cat L. Marcasciano, Senior Manager
PSBM
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Let your business manager help you set a budget for holiday and charitable giving and be aware of your tax liabilities. Making a list of specific gifts can help you stay within that budget and avoid overspending. And remember that you MUST donate to an official 501c3 in order to get a tax deduction.
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… I’d love to streamline communications with clients even further and encourage additional engagement. Right now, we develop custom reporting for our clients and strive for in-depth meetings surrounding these. However, there’s always a need to ensure we provide the most clarity and understanding and that requires constant adaptability.
Cat Marcasciano is a Senior Manager at PS Business Management, where she has been dedicated since July 2009. She takes immense pride in her work, paying meticulous attention to detail and consistently going the extra mile for her clients. Over the past 15 years, Cat has had the honor of working with some of the world’s biggest entertainment and sports figures, expertly guiding their businesses and finances so they can focus on their careers.
Tara Moore, Managing Director
PSBM
The smartest person I know is… My daughter. She was born wise beyond her years. The kindest girl there is and will not take BS from anyone.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… Giving it a more personal touch and making all the financial information more digestible for the client.
Tara Moore is a Managing Director at PS Business Management where she works with a diverse roster of musicians, artists, and athletes. As a Business Manager, she oversees and assists with all financial aspects of a client’s career. From baby bands to star athletes to chart-topping pop acts, Tara helps bring stability and structure to her clients’ financial lives, both personally and professionally. Having a trusted team watching over their business gives her clients the freedom to continue performing and leading successful, creative lives. Tara opened the Nashville branch of PSBM in August 2021 and is thrilled to be a part of the artistic and innovative community overflowing in her new town.
Wesley Childs, CPA, Partner
Schulman Lobel LLP
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Don’t wait until the year ends! Have us on speed dial and keep us informed throughout the year.
The smartest person I know is… Matt Hoffman
Wes is a Partner at Schulman Lobel LLP and a Certified Public Accountant with more than a dozen years of experience in public accounting. Athletes, entertainers, touring artists, high net-worth individuals, and their closely held businesses have all found Wesley’s knowledge and guidance invaluable when it comes to handling the unique financial and tax situations they face. This is especially true for inbound and outbound clients looking for advice on complex issues regarding international tax compliance and structuring. In addition to working with individual clients, Wes has also served startup companies, as well as private equity firms. Even though he represents a diverse clientele across a broad range of industries from entertainment and family business to real estate and construction, Wes is dedicated to making sure that he provides the tax and consulting services that meet each client’s objectives.
Rob Grubman, CPA, Partner
Schulman Lobel LLP
The best advice I was ever given (and who gave it to you)… Treat people you meet with respect regardless of what job they do for a living. The person at the front desk deserves the same treatment as the person behind the desk. My father, partner and mentor, Alvin Grubman told me that.
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… Continue to grow my practice and still provide top-notch service.
Rob is a Partner at Schulman Lobel LLP. A Certified Public Accountant, his specialty is consulting and business management for entertainment and lifestyle companies, family businesses, and fashion companies. Throughout his more than 35 years in public accounting, Rob’s goal has always been to use his extensive financial knowledge to guide individuals and business owners on a path to greater profitability and efficiency. Over the years, his advice has been trusted by a wide variety of clients, including music artists and producers, clothing designers and retailers, collectible sneaker companies, interior designers, marketing/public relations firms, and several iconic modern artists. His valuable insights have even been sought out by many of today’s most respected names in digital marketing and social media.
Cathryn Wright, Managing Director
Sedulo
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… Continuing to form partnerships with exceptional individuals and organisations based on shared values, and that genuinely work to everyone’s benefit.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Smashing the fundraising targets for our sister charitable organisation the Sedulo Foundation, which I chair, to enable us to support thousands of children living in poverty across the UK.
Cathryn is the group’s Managing Director, and also heads up the Private Client function at Sedulo. The group provides accounting, audit, wealth management, tax advisory and planning, and business management functions. Cathryn acts as the senior relationship manager for many of the private clients, largely consisting of household names from the world of TV, film, music and sports, as well as UHNW individuals. Cathryn is a qualified accountant and has over 2 decades of experience in both industry and practice. Having held leadership roles in several national charities, she is comfortable supporting clients with philanthropy strategies and trust or charity foundation formations. Her experience in the wine industry and prominent arts sector NED appointments lends itself well to advising on a range of passion investments. Cathryn is highly valued by her clients for her breadth of technical knowledge, combined with a highly flexible and personable approach, underpinned by a creative, proactive and commercial approach.
Grant Court, FCCA, Partner
SRLV LLP
The smartest person I know is…The person who knows when to ask a question and who to ask! When it comes to clients, nurturing relationships between an artist’s manager, lawyer and accountant is vital to make this happen.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)…Seeing my daughter leave for her first day at school.
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… I’ve been in this industry for twenty years and it is constantly changing (and always will). Sometimes these changes happen slowly but other times, they pop out of nowhere. Our responsibility is to anticipate and plan through them to ensure our clients get the right advice and support.
A partner at SRLV in London, Grant advises a large portfolio of high-profile clients across the music & entertainment industry, as well as supporting other creative professionals and UK/US businesses. Many of his clients have international tax exposure and rely on Grant and his team to manage their day-to-day accounting, royalties and withholding taxes, whilst advising them on new business set-ups and being all-round financial advisors and business managers.
Josh Klein, Managing Partner
TKG Business Management
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Next year will be better! Onward and upward!
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… Eliminate conflicts in the industry and promote staff from within.
Joshua Klein is the Founder, Managing Partner and CEO of TKG Business Management LLC. TKG is a full‐service family office firm specializing in Business and Wealth Management Services for high-net-worth individuals such as entertainers, athletes, and entrepreneurs. Joshua is a renowned leader in the Business Management world, specializing in business management for musicians, artist managers, producers, athletes, CEOs and entrepreneurs. In 2020, Joshua formed his own firm, TKG Business Management.
Joe McGill, CPA, Business Manager
Topline Business Management, LLC
A goal I’d like to achieve in 2024 is… Continuing professional development and firm growth.
Name a key achievement you’re proud of in the last year (professional or personal)… Firm growth. Our employees (family) are the backbone of our business.
A native of Watts, Joe McGill is co-owner of the Los Angeles entertainment-based firm, Topline Business Management. The firm has a client roster consisting of talent spread across the entertainment landscape. Whether emerging talent or established talent, McGill believes in developing meaningful personal relationships with clients in an effort to best advise on needs. McGill currently lives in Encino with his wife, daughter and dog
Raymond M. PINGLORA, LLL, CPA, MST, Principal
Van Duyne, Bruno & Co. P.A.
Ray joined the firm in 2002. He earned his B.S. in Accounting from William Paterson University and his M.S. in Taxation from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He also holds a certificate in state and local taxation. Ray participated in the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’s “Start Here, Go Places” program which encourages high school and college students to major in accounting and/or pursue a career in accounting. He also is a volunteer advisor to the Board of Trustees of the New York, Susquehanna & Western, Technical & Historical Society, a non-profit organization that focuses on the operation and restoration of historical railroad equipment. Ray’s practice areas focus on small to medium-sized businesses and mid/high net-worth individuals. His wide range of experience includes a particular emphasis on serving the multi-faceted world of professional sports, entertainment, and media.
Sarah Hamner, Business Manager
Wiatr & Associates
The one thing I am changing/want to change about business management… Gatekeeping. Gatekeeping of the trade, relationships, knowledge, problem solving, and how to overall manage accounts. When someone in a leadership role chooses to only teach part of the job or trade – actively withholding key bits of information – it is rooted in fear. There is a lot to be said for tenure, experience, putting the time and work into a craft, but the best leaders I know choose confidence in their craft and relationships over the fear that someone else will be better. I try to lead with the mindset: if you want to go fast go alone. If you want to go far, go together. I know I can achieve a lot more with a team vs just myself.
The smartest person I know is… My 10 year old son. It is fascinating to observe how a child’s mind and emotions operate. Before a child morph themselves into whomever they think the world wants them to be – they are the smartest, most honest, authentic and loving versions of a human being. I learn from him every single day.
Sarah Hamner is a seasoned Business Manager specializing in managing the financial and administrative affairs of high-profile clients such as Chris Stapleton, HARDY, and Mick Fleetwood. With over 14 years of experience at Wiatr & Associates, she continues to focus her expertise in the music industry and works to ensure her clients’ business operations run smoothly and efficiently, allowing them to concentrate on their creative pursuits.
Steve Eggart, Business Manager
Wiles + Taylor & CO. P.C.
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… If you haven’t already throughout the year, revisit your goals (short and long term) and the turnover of a new year is a great time to do so and collaborate with your team to make sure everyone is working towards the same common goals and have identified what steps need to be taken to accomplish them.
If I could have unlimited of any item it would be… Time. There’s never enough of it and having the skill to balance time between family, home, client needs and firm administration is no small feat. It’s incredibly important to manage wisely and carve out breaks for yourself.
A native New Yorker, Steve Eggart has worked in the business management realm for over 15 years. After graduating from UC Santa Barbara, he started at firms in Los Angeles working mainly with film and television clientele and later made the move 10 years ago to Nashville to serve as a trusted advisor to touring musicians, songwriters and producers combining his love for music with a desire for a continued career in business management.
Jordan L. Josephs, Business Manager
Your best end-of-year advice for clients… Have rock-solid projections to avoid surprises.
Jordan handles the financial and business affairs for his roster of clients which includes touring artists and musicians, producers, entertainers, and digital talent. Jordan also advises record companies and recording studios, and handles the family office for select athletes, ultra-high-net-worth executives and entrepreneurs. His wide range of expertise allows him to serve as a “personal CFO” to his clients, providing comprehensive and tailored services.