TEAM
FOUNDER
Regan Lohman, MSA
Regan brings more than 14 years of accounting, finance and auditing experience to L&A. Regan partners with companies in various stages to support as CFO, assist in debt and equity transactions, and create operational efficiencies within an existing finance department. Regan has experienced the full life cycle of startup, including IPO and wind-down. Prior to starting L&A, Regan worked in Ernst & Young LLP’s audit practice and has subsequently worked with a variety of startups in multiple industries including technology, biotechnology, renewable energy, CPG, advertising, and professional services. Regan received a B.B.A. in Accounting from the University of Iowa and a M.S. in Accountancy from the University of Missouri, Kansas City. In the off chance Regan isn’t working, you can find her at her local CrossFit gym, at the beach with her family, or on the golf course.
Senior Director
Leslie Locke, CPA
Leslie is a Certified Public Accountant with over 17 years of experience in accounting for startups in a wide range of industries including biotech, advertising, and solar energy. She has helped several companies prepare for IPOs and acquisitions. She specializes in technical accounting, including revenue recognition, financial instruments, stock based compensation, business combinations, software development, leases, grants, and IFRS. Leslie has extensive experience preparing for and managing audits and transactions. She has also lead the charge on systems implementations including ERPs and equity management solutions. When she’s not reading the ASC, you can usually find her hiking, kayaking, playing with her dogs, or reading.
Senior Director
Cheryl Collett, CPA
Cheryl brings more than 24 years of accounting, finance and auditing experience to Lohman. Cheryl partners with companies in various stages to support as CFO, assist in debt and equity transactions, create operational efficiencies within an existing finance department, and stand-up accounting operations for early-stage companies. Cheryl has experienced the full life cycle of startup, including IPO readiness, IPO, and wind-down. She has led teams through transitions, M&A, and system implementations. Prior to Lohman, Cheryl started her accounting career as an auditor and has subsequently worked with a variety of startups and public companies in multiple industries but with a focus on life sciences, biotechnology, and medical device. Prior to joining Lohman, Cheryl most recently has served as CFO for clinical-stage life science companies. She received a B.S. in Accounting and Business Administration from California State University, Los Angeles and is a Certified Public Accountant in the state of California. When Cheryl isn't working, she's enjoying San Diego's weather or traveling with her family.
VP of Operations
Shannon Wittman, MBA
Shannon has over 15 years of experience for various small to mid-sized companies in the financial services, solar, tech, biotech, and life science industries. She has focused her time establishing and streamlining accounting processes. Shannon has managed a team of accounting professionals and has overseen AP, AR, GL, Payroll functions within an accounting department. With that, she has facilitated the implementation of ERP systems, equity management tools, and various software solutions to establish proper controls and efficiencies. She has also prepared and lead teams through public and private financial audits, as well as M&A transactions. In her spare time, Shannon enjoys spending time with her family and dogs, being active outdoors, or attending a local sporting event.
Human Resources Coordinator
Kelly Fry
Kelly received her B.S. in Business Administration with an emphasis in Human Resources from The Ohio State University. She brings over 15 years of expertise in talent management, organizational development, and employee relations. She has developed a deep understanding of both the strategic and operational aspects of HR in various industries including Real Estate, Financial and Healthcare. Kelly is passionate about creating a positive workplace culture and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. Outside of work, Kelly enjoys Pilates classes, being at the beach with her family and traveling.
Senior Manager
Odette Acosta, CPA, MBA
Odette is a Certified Public Accountant with more than 10 years of accounting and finance experience. Prior to joining L&A, Odette worked as an auditor for six years in the public accounting sector in the San Diego and Imperial Valley areas. She audited a wide range of public and private companies in various industries including agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and life sciences. Most recently for the past four years, Odette worked under a FP&A team for a private San Diego healthcare company focusing on external GAAP and Statutory financial reporting, technical accounting, and budget management. Her FP&A team was a vital resource for executive management to make strategic business decisions. Odette has a Bachelor of Accounting & Business Administration from Chapman University and a Master of Business Administration from University of San Diego. Outside of work, Odette enjoys running, hiking, and spending time with her friends and family.
Senior Manager
Jake Wilhelmy
Jake has been an accounting professional for 3 years and received his B.S. in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting and Finance from the University of New Hampshire. He previously worked at Ernst & Young, LLP in the commercial assurance practice for both public and private companies. Specifically working with mid-sized to large biotech and real estate companies, Jake has had experience overseeing a variety of complex accounting areas including mergers and transactions, adoption of accounting standards, and implementation of internal controls. He has successfully led teams through financial statements audits using strong attention to detail and critical thinking skills. Outside work, Jake enjoys golfing, relaxing at the beach, and traveling with his friends and family.
Manager
Lisa Suennen, MSA
Lisa is a Certified Public Accountant candidate, having received her MSA from Southern Methodist University. She previously worked at PWC as an assurance associate where she assisted in the audits of both private and public companies. Lisa brings dedication and attention to detail to the team and her clients, and she has a passion for process improvement. Outside of the office, Lisa enjoys running and hiking on the local San Diego trails, as well as trying out new baking recipes and traveling the states to visit friends.
Manager
James Cumbo, CPA
James is a Certified Public Accountant who brings over 5 years of professional accounting experience to L&A. He comes from the environmental service industry and has extensive experience in operational accounting and financial reporting. James received his B.S. in Accounting from North Carolina State University and holds a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Missouri. Outside of work, you can find James at a sporting event or concert, camping in a National Park, or surfing.
Manager
Tatiana Romans, MBA
Tatiana has over 4 years of accounting experience in San Diego. Previously she worked as an accounting manager for a biotechnology company where she led various day-to-day accounting activities. She also prepared and provided support for specialized projects such as external audits and carve-out financials. She holds a B.S. degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance and received her MBA degree from California State University San Marcos. She has helped businesses in biotechnology, advertising, retail, professional sports, consulting, and software service industries. She has expertise in AP/AR, expense reporting, cash coding, account reconciliation, and monthly close. Tatiana values her clients’ needs and is proud to bring her experience and attention to detail to create well-organized financial records for her clients. In her free time, she enjoys working out, listening to music, and spending time with her family, friends, and her dog.
Manager
Makari Rasputin, MSA
Makari is a Certified Public Accountant candidate, having received his MSA with an emphasis in financial reporting from San Diego State University. He has worked with numerous small businesses in San Diego, providing operational accounting services, including cash management and financial reporting, and assisting in software implementation. He has experience with businesses in Tech, Biotech, Marketing, and Real Estate. If he isn’t working or attending sporting events, you can find him lifting weights, playing soccer, and attending music festivals.
Senior Associate
Cassie Reed, CPA
Cassie is a Certified Public Accountant, having received her B.S. in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from Sacramento State University. She has prior experience in the biotech industry with a focus on general ledger accounting for both pre-revenue and revenue-generating public companies with additional in-depth experience in Accounts Payable. In her free time, Cassie enjoys baking, fencing, needlecraft, and spending time with her family.
Senior Associate
Johnny Chiplin
Johnny is Certified Public Accountant candidate having received his B.S. in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from San Diego State University. He comes to L&A with prior experience as a staff accountant in the manufacturing industry with a focus in operational accounting. In his free time, Johnny enjoys surfing, working on cars and attending live music events.
Senior Associate
Karen Whealdon
Karen is a student in progress to receive her B.S in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from California State University San Marcos. She has worked with a variety of both small and large businesses in California providing accounting services such as, AP/AR, expense reporting, cash coding, account reconciliation, and monthly close. She has experience working with business in Biotech, Solar, and Advertising. In her free time, she likes catching new films, sword fighting, and hanging out with her friends and dog.
Senior Associate
Caleb Grauberger
Caleb has been an accounting professional for seven years with experience, in businesses big and small, in industries ranging from manufacturing to government contracting. He has extensive experience in revenue recognition, operational accounting, and cash flow forecasting. He is a Certified Public Accountant candidate with a Masters of Science in Accounting from Western Governors University. Outside of the office, Caleb enjoys spending time with family outdoors at the beach, the San Diego Zoo, or hiking the local trails.
Senior Associate
Samantha Burks
Sam brings over 5 years of dedicated professional accounting experience to our team. A graduate of Wayne State University, Sam holds a Bachelor's in Business Administration with specialized focus in Finance and Management Information Systems. Her experience spans various industries, including e-commerce, technology and telecommunications - allowing her to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities presented by each sector. Sam's commitment to precision, coupled with a keen eye for detail, ensures that clients receive the highest standard of accounting services. Outside of Excel spreadsheets, Sam enjoys spending time outdoors with her dog, surfing, snowboarding, and traveling.
Staff Associate
Beatrice Buitrago Holgersson
Beatrice received her B.S. in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance from San Diego State University. She started her career working for a public accounting firm in Portland, OR. Prior to joining L&A she worked for a boutique law and accounting firm here in San Diego, focusing on multinational businesses and individuals. She has experience in foreign asset reporting, streamlined filing compliance procedures, AR/AP, and account reconciliation, working with expat individuals and businesses across the world. When she’s not in the office, Beatrice likes to spend time travelling and exploring the great outdoors, visiting a new national park, hiking, camping, and climbing.
Staff Associate
Sovanny Thach
Sovanny, a proud Khmer-Krom American and Certified Public Accountant candidate, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of San Francisco. Her career began as an Advisory Associate at KPMG, where she gained valuable experience working with a wide range of clients. She also worked in Renewable Energy, managing the financial operations of solar and wind turbine projects. Driven by a commitment to accuracy and excellence, Sovanny approaches each project with a thoughtful and detail-oriented mindset, ensuring impactful results. In her free time, she is passionate about giving back to Cambodian communities and staying active through snowboarding, working out, and rock climbing.
Administrative Business Partner
Erin Fink
Erin has 15 years of experience spanning C-Level executive support, office management, and project management. She has supported a wide range of industries including Real Estate, Healthcare, Organizational Development and Business Consulting. Erin excels at aligning business objectives with comprehensive administrative knowledge to achieve a maximum operational impact, conserve time and boost efficiency for the team. She received her B.A. in Communications from Gonzaga University and in her spare time, enjoys spending time with her family, exploring new restaurants, and traveling the world.
MASCOT
Sasha
Handles all the ruff work.