LOS ANGELES, CA (January 31, 2025) – GHJ, a national advisory, accounting and tax firm, proudly announces that Food and Beverage Practice Leader Maria Pearman and Transaction Advisory Services Practice Leader David Sutton were named among the Los Angeles Business Journal’s Leaders of Influence: Thriving in their 40s. This prestigious honor celebrates influential professionals in their 40s who are making a significant impact on their industries and communities.

“Maria and David represent the best of what GHJ strives to be — advisors and leaders who go above and beyond to empower clients, inspire the industry and help their communities thrive,” said GHJ Managing Partner Tom Barry. “They exemplify the deep expertise and forward-thinking approach that define GHJ’s commitment to innovation and excellence.”

Recently named the Most Innovative Firm of the Year by the Los Angeles Business Journal and CalCPA for its client experience (CX) strategy, GHJ attributes this recognition to leaders like Maria and David. Their dedication to understanding client needs, fostering innovation and driving impactful outcomes exemplifies the personalized approach that sets GHJ apart. Through their leadership, the Firm continues to deliver exceptional results and uphold its reputation for excellence.

MARIA PEARMAN

Maria serves as a trusted advisor to the food and beverage industry and helps businesses of all sizes make strategic decisions that shape their future. She has worked closely with clients during pivotal moments, such as ownership transitions and financial restructuring, to ensure they emerge stronger and more resilient. Her unique ability to translate complex financial data into actionable insights helps businesses maximize efficiency and growth.

Beyond her work with clients, Maria has been instrumental in fostering innovation within the industry, advocating for sustainability and mentoring emerging leaders. Additionally, her thought leadership — including her books Small Brewery Finance and Distillery Finance — helps businesses navigate the complexities of the beverage industry.

DAVID SUTTON

By aligning deal expertise with his clients’ broader goals, David helps businesses across sectors secure deals that drive transformative growth. He has helped close transactions for businesses of all sizes, and his due diligence work has made a significant impact on the outcomes of those transactions. 

David took on the role of Transaction Advisory Services Practice Leader in 2024, and his commitment to his clients is matched by his passion for mentorship and community engagement. Whether helping a family business navigate a once-in-a-lifetime sale or mentoring the next generation of leaders, David’s role as a trusted advisor is always at the forefront.

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About GHJ

GHJ is a national advisory and accounting firm with a mission to help its clients and team members #BeMore by pursuing their passions, building thriving businesses and creating a better future. Headquartered in Los Angeles with additional offices in San Jose, Buffalo and Denver and over 250 professionals and 22 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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