Accounting
Jerry J. McPherson, CPA, CFE – 2019 40 Under 40 Honoree
Sep. 23, 2019
Jerry J. McPherson is Founder and Managing Partner of The Mathias Group, located in Tempe, AZ. The firm offers tax resolution, accounting , and attestation services to individuals and businesses. Jerry has positioned himself as a subject matter expert in emerging industries including cannabis taxation, and Opportunity Zones. Dubbed, “The Millennials’ CPA”, has made a niche communicating his accounting and finance expertise to today’s entrepreneur.
Jerry attended, Virginia State University where he obtained a Bachelors’ degree in Accounting with a minor in Finance, while concurrently serving in the US Army National Guard. Jerry would become only one of two battalion members selected to attend, and complete the Primary Leadership Development Course, which teaches the advanced leadership skills needed in military service.
His professional credentials include being a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE). He was honored as a 2016 YP Rising Award Winner and named to 2019 40-Under-40 by the Phoenix Business Journal.
In addition to his public accounting practice, Jerry continues to invest in an array of small businesses ranging from licensed sports apparel, an art studio, real estate and a hospitality firm.
What are you doing to make a difference in the profession, your community, the world?
I am and have always been actively engaged in my the local community with an emphasis on economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. Both within my practice and as a community service, I provided guidance and training to emerging and aspiring entrepreneurs to build successful and sustainable businesses.
I also serve as President of the Greater Phoenix Urban League Young Professionals, where our initiatives include civic engagement, economic empowerment and the professional development of young professionals.
Additionally, I serve on the advisory council for the regional chapter of National Minority Supplier Development Council where we focus on providing resources to small businesses.
Favorite books/websites/speakers that you find influential:
- Think & Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
- To Be Equal by Whitney M. Young, Jr.
- The Power of Broke by Daymond John
What do you see yourself doing professionally in 10 years?
I will continue leading my firm to what will become a Top 5 Independent accounting firm in this region. In addition, I will be a leading voice and influencer in advancing initiatives related to economic empowerment and entrepreneurship within underserved and disadvantaged communities.
What accounting conferences do you normally attend?
- NABA National Convention
- ACL Connections / Galvanize
What websites/magazines do you use to keep up on news of the accounting profession?
- Bloomberg
- Black Enterprise
- Phoenix Business Journal
- CPA Practice Advisor
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