About Your Local CPA, Ellenton CPA

Laura is the CEO and founder of eCPA, a leading CFO advisory and public accounting firm. With more than 25 years of experience in the accounting field, she has built a reputation for financial expertise, leadership, and a strong commitment to helping businesses thrive. Laura began her career in construction and manufacturing accounting, progressing from intern to CFO of multinational companies. Her journey in private industry accounting laid the foundation for the creation of eCPA in 2008, where she initially focused on CFO advisory services. In 2014, Laura expanded eCPA by incorporating public accounting services, solidifying eCPA's reputation as a trusted partner for financial guidance and business growth.

Laura has an impressive academic background. She earned a Bachelor's in Accounting, a Master’s in Accounting, and an MBA, all graduating Summa Cum Laude. Her expertise is further validated by a series of professional certifications, including Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), and Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF). She is also an active member of several professional organizations, including the CFMA, AICPA, FICPA, and SHRM. Laura was also a nominee for the FICPA Top Women to Watch awards in 2018 and 2024

At eCPA, Laura thrives on making a positive impact in the communities the firm serves. She finds fulfillment in providing financial clarity to clients, helping them make informed decisions that drive growth and success. Laura takes great pride in the collaborative, family-like atmosphere at eCPA, where mentorship and professional development are central to the firm’s culture. She is passionate about guiding staff and clients in mastering financial concepts, ultimately helping them become strong, confident stewards of their financial resources.

Outside of her professional life, Laura is passionate about sailing, traveling, and supporting educational foundations that promote financial literacy. She dedicates time to charitable causes, particularly those focused on financial education, and enjoys contributing to initiatives that empower individuals and businesses to thrive financially.

With a blend of extensive financial expertise, leadership, and a commitment to mentoring, Laura is not only a respected leader in the accounting field but also an advocate for the financial success and empowerment of others.

With over 26 years of combined experience in both the corporate and academic sectors, Jaicee brings a wealth of expertise to the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Integrator at eCPA. A seasoned financial professional, he has held leadership positions across a wide range of financial functions, from financial management to audit, taxation, and risk management.

Educational Background:

• Master of Commerce - Taxation
• Postgraduate Diploma in International Taxation
• Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Accounting Sciences
• Bachelor of Accounting Sciences
• Bachelor of Accounting Sciences Honours
• Bachelor of Commerce in Law

Professional Experience:

Jaicee has 15 years of experience in corporate finance, including roles such as Chief Audit Executive and Financial Manager. In these capacities, He has overseen full accounting functions, taxation services, risk management, internal and external audits, as well as CFO services. Known for managing large, multicultural teams, Jaicee has excelled in creating dynamic, high-performing environments. In addition to corporate roles, Jaicee has an extensive academic background, teaching at the university level for 15 years. This combination of practical and academic experience allows him to bring a holistic approach to leadership and operations management.

Certifications and Professional Memberships:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) - AICPA
• Fellow Chartered Management Accountant (FCMA) - AICPA/CIMA
• Global Certified Management Accountant (GCMA) - AICPA/CIMA
• Chartered Accountant (South Africa) (CA(SA)) - SAICA
• Professional Tax Preparer - Universal Accounting

Jaicee feels that being part of the eCPA family has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The supportive, collaborative environment fosters both personal and professional growth, and I am proud to work with a team that genuinely cares about each other and the clients we serve. Outside of work, Jaicee is passionate about running, attending music concerts, and traveling to experience new cultures and cuisines. Originally from the small farming town of Standerton in South Africa, He enjoys mentoring students, guiding them not only through their academic journey but also in their personal growth and development. A firm believer in giving back, Jaicee is committed to helping students succeed, from their first year of study to their final exams and beyond.

Giesella is a Florida Keys native attending Saint Petersburg College and earning her Bachelor's degree. She has worked in various roles at Ellenton CPA since 2015 including, accounts payable, payroll , bookkeeping, and tax return preparation. As an aspiring student, she loves the helpful atmosphere our team members create to promote individual growth as there is always an opportunity to learn new skills. On the weekends she enjoys gaming with friends and her siblings, finding new areas to explore and spending time with her family.

Gabe is a Senior Staff Accountant at Ellenton CPA, bringing a strong background in accounting and a passion for professional growth. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, has completed his post graduate education requirements and is actively pursuing his CPA licensure

Before joining Ellenton CPA, Gabe was a dedicated full-time student, focusing on academic excellence and building a solid foundation for his career.

In addition to his academic qualifications, Gabe earned the Cambridge AICE Diploma, demonstrating a well-rounded educational background. At Ellenton CPA, he values the family-like atmosphere and the supportive team dynamic, where colleagues always work together to help one another succeed.

Outside of his professional life, Gabe is an avid sports enthusiast, with a particular love for soccer. He is also a musician and actively volunteers at the local high school, where he teaches jazz and inspires the next generation of musicians.

As a Senior Staff Accountant and CFO at eCPA,Suz is responsible for preparingand maintaining accurate financial statements, budgets, and analytics for our clients. This includes ensuring compliance with financial regulations, analyzing assets, liabilities, equity, income, expenses, taxes, and other financial transactions. She specializes in managing cash flow and financial risk management to assist clients with dynamic business strategies that drive profitability. Suz brings invaluable experience in the field of accounting and financial management to eCPA. Previously, she served as a Partner at SMB & Associates, South Africa, and as a Project Coordinator at KPMG Global Statutory Audit Centre of Excellence in Hungary. Suz says at eCPA she most appreciates that "the dynamic environment fosters collaboration and innovation, allowing me to apply my skills to solve intricate financial challenges and guide clients towards profitability. Moreover, the company's commitment to precision and proactive measures aligns perfectly with my professional values, making every day at eCPA both challenging and rewarding." Beyond professional endeavors, Suz has a passion for travel and exploration, She is a host mother to foreign exchange high school students, actively involved in Toastmasters, enjoys cooking, photography, reading, gardening and hiking.

• CIMA Professional Qualification
• Additional key subjects: Australia Income Tax Law and Aspects of Company Law
• Certificate in Value-Added Tax
• The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA)
• The South African Public Accountants and Auditors Board (PAAB)
• Honours Baccalaureus Computations and Certificate of Theory of Accounting
• Honours Baccalaureus Commercii (Economics)
• Associate Chartered Management Accountant (FCMA) – AICPA &/ CIMA
• Global Certified Management Accountant (GCMA) – AICPA & CIMA
• Chartered Accountant South Africa (CA)(SA) – SAICA

Ann Marie graduated from College Misericordia in Dallas, Pennsylvania, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a Specialization in Accounting. She received her CPA license in 1990 and remains an active member of AICPA and PICPA. Her past work experience includes financial accounting, auditing, payroll and tax preparation, in both public accounting and private industry. At eCPA, Ann Marie is responsible for bookkeeping, bank reconciliations, financial statements and tax return preparation. She says, "I really like the friendly atmosphere and how helpful Laura and the staff are. I appreciate all the training and communication that is provided. I especially like and appreciate how organized everything is." A lifelong resident of Dallas, Pennsylvania, Ann Marie enjoys spending time with her husband, family and friends, working in the yard, watching Notre Dame football and going to concerts, especially Frankie Valli and Air Supply concerts.

Barbara is responsible for printing, packaging, and sending tax returns to clients for eSignatures and receiving the signed copies back from the client. She manages the eCPA client portal uploading and downloading documents and adding new clients and supports the administrative team where needed. With 30+ years of experience working in the Certified Public Accounting field, Barbara is well versed in all the ins and outs of working in an accounting office. She says, "I like how welcome everyone made me feel when joining Ellenton CPA. It is such a great work environment! Laura is amazing with her positivity and willingness to answer questions to help her employees achieve their best!" Barbara is a Florida native, with deep roots in Palmetto. Born and raised in Manatee County, both of her parents’ families were early settlers in the Palmetto area. She loves spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. An avid bowler and member of the Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge, Barbara bowls on the Moose League every chance she gets. Listening to music and attending concerts with friends are also favorite pastimes.

From South Bend, Indiana, Bill is a licensed CPA with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business and a major in Accounting. He owned William R Hanna CPA, a full service accounting firm in South Bend from 1982-2021. His responsibilities at eCPA include assisting staff with tax and accounting issues and reviewing tax returns and financial statements. Bill says, "I enjoy the challenges presented to me in helping assure that the services provided to the client are of the highest caliber. I enjoy the opportunity to mentor staff in the preparation of all types of tax returns." His personal interests include golf, reading about US history and past presidents, and attending car cruises. He also enjoys volunteering his services to many non-profit organizations.

While studying Accounting at USF, Eli joined the eCPA team as an Accounting Intern. At USF, he is a part of the Accounting Society, Math Club and Investment Club. He is a Microsoft Office Specialist and Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor. Eli has previously worked as an A/P specialist and plans on obtaining his CPA license. From the age of 10, Eli worked in collision repair, welding, paint prep, and assembly. He nearly chose collision repair as a career but ultimately chose accounting instead. At Ellenton CPA, his primary responsibilities include processing and filing tax returns, filing extensions, monthly A/R and A/P related tasks and assisting the team with a variety of other tasks. When asked what he likes best about working at eCPA, Eli says, "I love how helpful and welcoming everyone is to questions and how everyone is willing to chip in to any task that may need to be done." Eli's hobbies include baseball (Baltimore Orioles fan) and coin collecting. In his free time he enjoys spending time with family and friends. He especially enjoys taking his younger brother to baseball games and the arcade.

As Full Charge Bookkeeper, Katherine is responsible for bookkeeping, payroll, processing 401K, KPI's, accounts payable and receivables and additional special projects. With a B.S. degree in Business Administration and her past work experience in benefits accounting, as AR specialist, credit billing, cash handling, AP specialist and customer service, Katherine is an asset to the eCPA team. She says, "at eCPA, I love that we are all a little family that helps each other succeed. Laura is very involved in our daily duties after or in between her really busy schedule and she takes the time to share her knowledge and ideas."

Megan holds a BSBA from Northern Arizona University with a dual major in marketing and management. She brings a diverse skillset to eCPA, including accounting, office management, purchasing, and marketing experience.With more than 20 years in construction accounting, payables, and contract management, restaurant product marketing and distribution, military contract purchasing, work with an international nonprofit, and safety training for OSHA, Megan is well suited to understand and help meet the varied accounting needs of our clients. Megan says, "I love the continuous challenge of working with various clients to learn what are the pain points in their workflow and help them develop better systems of information management. I really enjoy problem solving new business challenges as a company grows and changes." She is an avid reader and a dog lover. She enjoys traveling with her family on mini-excursions to explore their new home state of Florida. Megan is an active alumnae member of her sorority, Alpha Delta Pi.

Pamela brings a broad skill set and a wealth of knowledge to her role as Executive Assistant at eCPA with many years of experience across diverse sectors, including the MLM industry, Women's Ministry, and Transportation. Her experience in these varied fields has equipped her with a strong foundation in administrative support, problem-solving, and organizational leadership. A member of the American Society of Administrative Professionals, she is committed to her ongoing professional development and strives to bring the highest level of service and efficiency to her work at eCPA. She values the opportunity to contribute to the success of the company and takes pride in being part of a team that fosters collaboration and mutual support. What she enjoys most about working at eCPA is the strong sense of belonging and appreciation she feels. Pamela is grateful to be part of a company that truly values its employees and creates a "family" environment where everyone’s contributions are recognized and valued. Originally from Michigan, she enjoys traveling with her husband, being a proud boy mom, dog mom, grandma and great-grandma as well as volunteering her time at her church and a local animal rescue shelter. Her love for serving others and giving back to the community is reflected in her personal and professional life, and she’s always looking for ways to support and make a positive impact on those around her.

With a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and years of experience in accounting, billing and invoicing in a variety of industries, Rachael is an integral member of the eCPA team. She handles billing, invoicing, annual reports, collections, tax filings and payroll processing. Rachael says, "Our work environment is amazing and everyone is helpful and outgoing. I like that I have room to grow and I am learning new things daily."A Florida native from New Port Richey, she is interested in computer software and enjoys crafting and gaming with her family.

At eCPA, Rachelle’s responsibilities include financial preparation, payroll, 401K, accounts payable and receivables, and a variety of other special projects. Educated in the UK, with AAT qualification and some CIMA, Rachelle has 27 years of industry experience as Financial Manager in manufacturing and construction. Rachelle says, “There is never a day that I don’t enjoy coming into work. Everybody is so friendly and helpful. People will take time out to help with any questions I may have. There is also room for progress and moving into different kinds of accounting.” She loves spending time with her husband, walking her dogs, and discovering new places for new adventures. Being outdoors walking, at the beach, and around the pool are favorite activities. In the UK, Rachelle’s love for walking and hiking motivated her to complete several 26 mile hikes/walks to raise funds for important cancer focused charities. Her motto is, “I’m doing it for those that can’t!”

At eCPA, Regina is responsible for financial statement preparation, tax return preparation, and payroll processing. She attended Rasmussen College in Illinois and is a member of the National Association of Tax Preparers. Originally from Illinois, Regina moved to Florida in 2022. In her free time, she enjoys working with dogs and plans on doing volunteer work with some local shelters. About working at eCPA, Regina says, "The firm is a positive work environment. Teamwork is a foundation for consistency and workflow."

Originally from Oregon, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Finance, Rylan began his accounting career in Washington State overseeing all accounting operations and financial transactions for a construction company. After moving to Florida, he worked for Tampa Electric specifically dealing with payroll reconciliations and taxes. At eCPA, his primary responsibilities include daily bookkeeping posting, accounts payable and receivable. He runs payroll for clients on a weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly basis. He also handles general ledger reconciliation and produces financials monthly. Rylan says, "The best thing about working at Ellenton CPA is the environment. This team works like a family. It fosters learning and improvement as a professional and individual. The company itself also puts clients first and focuses on how we can help."

Tavionne is an Office Admin and Marketing Assistant with a vibrant background in customer service and communications. Currently pursuing a B.A. in Communications with concentrations in digital media and public relations, She is passionate about effective communication and community engagement. With four years of retail experience, including roles as a registered pharmacy technician, Tavionne has developed strong interpersonal skills and a keen understanding of client needs. Additionally, Tavionne has taken on leadership positions in the sorority Delta Delta Delta, serving as the Director of Public Relations & Marketing and the Director of First-Year Experience, which fostered a deep commitment to mentorship and collaboration. At eCPA, she appreciates the supportive work environment that emphasizes teamwork and positivity. The encouragement from colleagues not only boosts morale but also aids in personal growth and skill development. In Tavionne's free time, you can find her at the beach, painting, or enjoying a good scary movie. A lover of travel, she enjoys exploring new cities and creating lasting memories with friends and family.