Three GHJ leaders were honored for their business achievements, mentorship and industry-wide impact.

LOS ANGELES, CA – GHJ, a national advisory, tax and accounting firm, is proud to announce that Gina McLeod, Maria Pearman and Donella Wilson have been named to the Los Angeles Business Journal’s 2025 Women of Influence: Accounting list. This award recognizes top women in accounting and financial services who positively impact the profession through leadership, community involvement and mentorship. 

“At GHJ, strong leadership starts with strong values,” said GHJ Managing Partner Tom Barry. “Gina, Maria and Donella each exemplify this through a dedication to client service, their impact in the community and a commitment to empowering others. We are proud to celebrate their recognition as Women of Influence in Accounting.”

Gina McLeod

Gina is GHJ’s Tax Practice Leader, who oversees the practice across corporate tax, SALT, international tax services and more. She combines rigorous tax expertise with proactive leadership so the practice is well-equipped to handle complex tax challenges. Her pragmatic approach to leadership combined with her commitment to client service has made a lasting impression at GHJ. This is the second year Gina has been recognized on this list.

“It is an honor to be named among such an inspiring group of professionals,” Gina said. “I have had the great privilege to work with extremely talented colleagues and clients, and their influence on my career has made this possible.”

Maria Pearman

Maria leads GHJ’s Food and Beverage Practice. She has extensive experience providing accounting and advisory services and helping dynamic, multi-faceted businesses grow. She is the author of two industry-defining books and an educator who helps food and beverage entrepreneurs build strong financial foundations.

“It is deeply meaningful to be acknowledged not just for technical work, but for the broader impact we make by supporting businesses, mentoring future leaders and shaping the industry,” Maria said.

Donella Wilson

As GHJ’s Nonprofit Practice Leader, Donella leads a robust practice that serves private foundations, arts and culture organizations, social service organizations and more. She is a long-time advocate for nonprofit organizations and has dedicated her career to the industry. Donella is also the President and Chief Philanthropy Officer of GHJ Foundation. This is Donella’s second year receiving this honor.

“To be recognized in this way is a reflection of the communities I work in and the mentors who have supported me throughout my career,” Donella said. “I hope this inspires others to lead with empathy and purpose.”

GHJ, an independent firm, is committed to developing a culture that supports professional growth, celebrates leadership and empowers the next generation of advisors. For more information about GHJ and its leaders, visit ghjadvisors.com.

About GHJ

GHJ is a national advisory and accounting firm with a mission to help its clients and team members #BeMore by pursuing their passions, building thriving businesses and creating a better future. Headquartered in Los Angeles with additional offices in San Jose, Buffalo and Denver and over 250 professionals and 23 partners throughout the U.S., GHJ serves thousands of clients worldwide. The Firm meets clients where they are and specializes in a diverse range of industries, including entertainment, food and beverage and media and advertising companies and nonprofit organizations.

Ranked as a Top-100 Firm, 7th Fastest-Growing Firm, Top Regional Leader in the West and Best Firm to Work For by Accounting Today, GHJ is recognized for its innovative approach and dedication to client success. This is driven by the belief that its collective diversity of thoughts, backgrounds and experiences are exactly what makes GHJ a place where employees can each #BeMore – together. Employees are invited to pursue their passions, deliver exceptional service and support the causes they care about. The Firm embraces hybrid work and prioritizes diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA). Additionally, GHJ Foundation supports the community through financial contributions and volunteerism.

GHJ is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the AICPA Governmental Audit Quality Center (GAQC), the California Society of CPAs and the California Association of Nonprofits (CalNonprofit). As a member of HLB International, the global network of independent advisory and accounting firms, GHJ provides clients with seamless access to expertise in over 150 countries to deliver solutions that meet both local and global needs. 

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