The Los Angeles Business Journal and CalCPA recognized Satpal Nagpal, Lizbeth Nevarez and Anant Patel for shaping the future of accounting and business in Los Angeles.
LOS ANGELES, CA – GHJ, a national advisory, tax and accounting firm, proudly announces that three of its leaders — Satpal Nagpal, Lizbeth Nevarez and Anant Patel — have been named to the Los Angeles Business Journal’s 2025 Top 100 Accountants list in partnership with the California Society of CPAs (CalCPA). This annual list honors CPAs across Los Angeles that demonstrate exceptional technical expertise, leadership and impact in the accounting profession and broader business community. Colin Nierenberg, a member of GHJ’s Audit and Assurance Services Practice, was also nominated for this year’s inaugural Emerging Leader of the Year award.
“Our honorees are known not just for technical excellence but for the way they lead: with integrity, curiosity and a deep commitment to helping clients and team members thrive,” said GHJ Managing Partner Tom Barry. “These individuals each bring something unique to their field, and their recognition reflects the caliber of leadership GHJ is proud to cultivate.”
SATPAL NAGPAL: TECHNOLOGY-DRIVEN INNOVATOR IN AUDIT AND ASSURANCE
With more than two decades of experience, Satpal, CPA, leads GHJ’s Audit and Assurance Practice. His strategic guidance has been instrumental in transforming how audits are delivered at GHJ — introducing scalable technologies, establishing international service partnerships and championing innovation that allows the Firm to serve complex, growing organizations. Dedicated to building a next-generation firm, Satpal’s forward-thinking, entrepreneurial approach to client service and team leadership continues to drive progress in the industry.
"Being named to this list is an honor, but it is also a recognition of the incredible team I have the privilege of working alongside,” Satpal said. “At GHJ, we are rethinking how assurance services are delivered by blending technology, collaboration and a genuine focus on client success. I am proud to help move that innovation forward."
This is the second time Satpal was recognized on this list.
LIZBETH NEVAREZ: NONPROFIT TAX LEADER AND COMMUNITY ADVOCATE
"I am grateful to be recognized among so many accomplished professionals,” Lizbeth stated. “This award highlights how important it is to use our expertise not just to serve clients, but to uplift communities and support future leaders in the profession. At the end of the day, that is what truly motivates my work."
Lizbeth, CPA, leads GHJ’s Nonprofit Tax Practice, advising public charities and private foundations on complex tax compliance and planning. A long-time advocate for equity in the profession, Lizbeth is a co-sponsor of GHJ’s Women’s Empowerment Cohort and serves on the boards of Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County, the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation and GHJ Foundation. Her work inside and outside of the Firm drives meaningful progress for communities across California. She also regularly shares her subject-matter expertise through thoughtware, webinars, conferences and educational courses.
ANANT PATEL: STRATEGIC ADVISORY LEADER
As GHJ’s Advisory Services Practice Leader, Anant, CPA, CM&AA, oversees a team of professionals across service areas, from transaction advisory to data analytics. Anant works with business leaders during high-stakes M&A activity and strategic transactions as well. With three decades of experience and deep industry relationships, Anant is a go-to advisor for private equity firms and business owners. His work has helped GHJ grow its Advisory Services practice nationally and enhance its cross-functional approach to client service.
"For me, this award is about the value in bringing strategic insight and trusted relationships to every client interaction,” Anant said. “I am grateful to be part of a firm where we have the freedom and focus to serve clients with intention, and where our independence allows us to stay nimble, responsive and fully aligned with clients' goals."
COLIN NIERENBERG: EMERGING AUDIT AND DATA ANALYTICS LEADER
As a professional making a significant impact early in his career, GHJ recognized Colin for his leadership in implementing technology and data analytics to transform the audit process for clients. Colin proactively takes on leadership roles within the Firm and strives to streamline processes and automate tasks to better serve clients.
“It is an honor to be nominated for such a competitive award,” Colin said. “GHJ has provided me with a foundation to truly excel, learn and lead regardless of seniority.”
These honorees bring GHJ’s values to life by combining technical excellence with a purpose-driven mindset. As GHJ continues to grow while maintaining its independent model, its people-first culture and deep specialization remain core to delivering lasting value to clients.
About GHJ
GHJ is a national independent advisory, tax and accounting firm that partners with businesses and nonprofit organizations to deliver clarity and confidence. Since 1953, GHJ has combined deep industry expertise with an entrepreneurial spirit to help leaders achieve their strategic goals.
GHJ is headquartered in Los Angeles and serves clients nationwide, backed by its own dispersed workforce. With more than 250 professionals and 23 partners, the Firm provides senior-level expertise with deep industry capabilities in food and beverage, media and advertising, entertainment and nonprofit.
GHJ is a Top 100 Firm and member of HLB International. Through this global network, GHJ offers seamless access to resources in over 150 countries while remaining fiercely focused on client success.
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