[email protected]
406-800-1008 |
Sarah Gould is a distinguished finance and accounting professional with over two decades of expertise spanning tax, auditing, nonprofit, corporate, and business finance. Raised in Whitefish, Montana, she honed her skills in Oregon and Idaho before assuming Senior Accounting roles at major corporations.
Driven by a commitment to her community, Sarah founded Elevated Advisory & Accounting in the Flathead Valley. She specializes in high-level fractional Controller and CFO services, partnering closely with entrepreneurs during critical periods of business growth and expansion. Sarah is dedicated to walking alongside businesses, aiding them in scaling operations and making impactful financial decisions that shape their future. Sarah excels in implementing detailed budgeting and forecasting models to optimize productivity and accuracy, viewing both the big picture and rearranging the small pieces of the financial puzzle. Her strategic insights have streamlined inventory management and invoicing cycles, significantly reducing reconciliation times. Sarah's expertise extends to guiding clients through government contract compliance and implementing EOS models for organizational alignment. Beyond traditional accounting, Sarah prioritizes client education and fosters supportive decision-making environments. She believes in proactive financial management as a partnership, ensuring that businesses receive comprehensive support every step of the way. Her approach mirrors her avid golfing passion, bringing strategic prowess and a competitive spirit to both the fairways and her clients' financial strategies. |
|
Stephanie grew up in small town Laurel, MT. Her career began as a receptionist and quickly advanced when she learned the ropes of the Corporate world. She has excelled in Payroll and has worked with over 31 restaurants to take care of employer & employee needs. She has specialized in employee/employer specific legalities. To complete the experience package, she has small business experience as a dance studio owner, teacher, & bookkeeper due to her time in Billings, MT.
In 2014 Stephanie and her husband decided to uproot their lives and plant themselves in the Valley with their two dogs. She is a certified Yoga instructor on the side and has specialized in Aerial Silk Yoga. Math and problem solving have always come easy to Stephanie and she shines whenever she can effectively work through a difficult number puzzle. She has a welcoming presence and a helpful persona. |
|
Jesse grew up in Santa Barbara, CA and moved to Whitefish in Fall of 2019. She came here with her partner and children to be closer to family and enjoy all that Northwest Montana has to offer. She enjoys going to the lake, family get-togethers and working on her property and home during her free time.
After getting a degree in Computer Information Systems in college, she quickly learned that accounting was her passion. She spent several years in office management and bookkeeping for restaurants, before moving into higher education. During her time working for the local University, she continued her education in Accounting, and worked in various Accounting and Payroll processing positions within her department. Jesse thrives on being challenged in new areas and working quickly and efficiently to respond to client's needs. She enjoys month-end reconciliations when she can have meaningful dialogue with clients regarding their accounts. At the end of each day, her goal is to have made the client and her colleague's day, a bit easier. |
|
Jess is our dynamic professional specializing in business analytics, client integration, and seamless software implementation. With a track record of success in migrating clients to CRM systems and developing productivity frameworks, Jess brings a unique flair to the team—she’s also known as the 'Chicken Mama' around here! Raised amidst Montana’s sweeping landscapes, Jess seamlessly blends her love for technology with a deep appreciation for the state's rugged beauty.
From optimizing operations to nurturing her feathered friends, Jess's journey from Montana's heartland reflects her commitment to delivering measurable results and fostering strong client partnerships. Her accomplishments include migrating 3,700 customers to a CRM system, enhancing client management and workflow efficiency, and developing robust frameworks for productivity metrics that optimize budgeting and profitability assessments. Jess has also integrated over 20 systems with secure banking connections, significantly reducing task completion times and streamlining operations. Her leadership in spearheading Accounts Receivable improvements has optimized cash flow and reduced collection cycles, further showcasing her strategic impact and operational acumen. |
|
Kortni, a native of North Eastern Oregon embarked on an inspiring journey in 2018. Her path led her to the picturesque landscapes of Montana, where she followed not just her heart but her deep passion for the great outdoors.
Beyond her love for the wilderness, Kortni is a dedicated and loving mother of two beautiful boys. In a beautiful twist of fate, she became a proud parent to four other incredible children when blending families, a true testament to her nurturing spirit and her ability to embrace the complexities and joys of family life. With a keen eye for numbers and a natural aptitude for financial management, Kortni found her calling in the world of accounting. For her, accounting is more than just a profession; it's a realm where she excels effortlessly and stays wholeheartedly engaged. She understands that accounting isn't just about numbers; it's about unlocking doors to a multitude of professional fields, all of which she eagerly explores. One of Kortni's most significant talents is her knack for taking care of the accounting on the back end of businesses. By managing the financial intricacies, she empowers her clients to focus on their dreams and ambitions, propelling their businesses to new heights. Her work encompasses various aspects of accounting, including the meticulous management of payroll and diving deep into the inner workings of companies to identify strategies for enhanced efficiency. |
|
Born and raised amidst the vibrant vibes of California, Barbara is a testament to the golden state's spirit. Life, however, had a journey in store. Barbara embarked on a series of adventures, with homes that changed like the seasons, eventually leading her to the picturesque landscapes of Idaho. It was the pull of family, the grandbabies, that anchored her there, proving that home is not just a place but where the heart finds love.
Her thirst for knowledge and pursuit of her passion for business led her to the sunny state of Arizona. Here, Barbara diligently worked to earn her Associates Degree in Business Management, an achievement that laid the foundation for her remarkable career. The most cherished aspect of her work, as she passionately shares, is the people. In her role, she connects with clients, listens to their needs, and offers solutions - often in the form of accounting expertise. The accountability that comes with her work is a driving force. She loves the camaraderie with her colleagues, making each day not just a job but a joy. Barbara's career is a medley of diverse experiences. She's donned the hats of a property manager, delved into the complexities of real estate, and even tasted the challenges and rewards of business ownership. However, her heart truly resonates with accounting. For her, it's not just about numbers; it's like solving a grand puzzle where every piece matters. Barbara isn't just a financial wizard; she's a problem-solving enthusiast, a people person, and a passionate advocate for detail and accuracy. She's the bridge between numbers and solutions, a professional who's found her calling in the dynamic world of accounting. |
|
Mia is a Spokane native and has always had her roots planted firmly in the heart of Washington. She took an unconventional but successful path through education, graduating high school with not just one, but two diplomas - one from her high school and an AA degree from the Running Start program. After graduation, she was unsure of her path, but spent several years as a dedicated nanny before realizing it was time for a change.
That's when she found Elevated, and it was exactly what she needed. Mia loves accounting because it allows her to work with numbers and puzzles, unraveling the story behind a business's finances. It demands precision and attention to detail, which brings her great satisfaction when solving complex problems. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Mia developed a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the region, with its lush forests and stunning landscapes. When she's not working, she finds solace and joy hiking and taking part in other outdoor activities. Family is also extremely important to her, and she's happily engaged with her fiance, building a future together with their sweet fur babies in their cozy home. Mia plans on returning to school to obtain her Bachelors in accounting, which will deepen her understanding of the field and open up even more opportunities for career growth. |
|
Nicky, our distinguished business advisor, is a master of financial management, compliance, and organizational restructuring across diverse sectors. Beyond her strategic acumen in reducing administrative expenses, historically totaling over $500 million annually for one client, and implementing savings strategies, Nicky's passion extends to Montana's rugged outdoors. She loves nothing more than getting behind the wheel of heavy machinery or diving into concrete work, where her hands-on approach and precision shine.
Returning to Montana from Alaska, Seattle & Southern California in 2019, Nicky brought her leadership and consulting experience to Elevated Accounting & Advisory in Kalispell. Inspired by her Montana roots, she's dedicated to supporting local businesses and contributing to community growth, blending business savvy with a down-to-earth passion for hands-on projects and partnerships. Key Achievements Include:
|
|
Michele's journey into accounting began with a swift rise to full-charge bookkeeper at a prestigious CPA firm. Her career path underscores a commitment to continuous learning, evident in her pursuit of an online bachelor's degree in accounting. Michele excels in roles across private and public sectors, known for her meticulous eye for detail and expertise in navigating complex regulatory landscapes such as Davis Bacon and prevailing wage regulations.
She has saved clients thousands in tax liabilities through adept PR and tip calculation error resolution and managed over 500 client relationships with tailored accounting solutions that directly boost profitability. Outside the office, Michele finds solace and inspiration in nature's challenges, avidly pursuing rugged hikes and white water rafting. Her precision in navigating rivers mirrors her approach to financial regulations and client strategies, showcasing a blend of analytical rigor and adventurous spirit that defines her professional success and personal fulfillment. |
|
Erin has always been drawn to the quote, 'A jack of all trades is a master of none, but often times better than a master of one' by Robert Greene. It's often misunderstood, but to her, it resonates as a testament to curiosity and versatility.
With a B.S. in Biology from Central Michigan University, she thrived in science and research, later expanding into health and wellness with a yoga teacher certification and sales roles in medical aesthetics. Her journey led to a transformative 5 year RV travel experience across the US, enriching her interpersonal skills and eventually driving her to settle in Montana. At Elevated, Erin manages an ever changing projects list, HR responsibilities, and ad-hoc assignments as Sarah's assistant, leveraging her organizational skills and people-centric approach to foster relationships and make a meaningful impact. |
[email protected]
406-607-6977 |
Ramona brings a diverse background and a deep commitment to client success to our firm. Originally from Newfoundland, Canada, she ventured west to Alberta before settling in the tranquil surroundings of rural Flathead Valley with her American partner, dogs, and a thriving wildlife habitat.
Her educational journey includes completing CPA modules, earning an Associate degree in accounting, and a Bachelor of Arts. Ramona's professional experience spans various sectors, including school districts, manufacturing, and public practice, with a specialization in audits and tax departments in Canada. Transitioning from a career in teaching, she found her passion in accounting, driven by a desire to assist clients in achieving financial clarity and operational efficiency. Ramona excels in client relations, adeptly listening to their needs and delivering tailored solutions. She thrives on challenges, rapidly adapting to new environments to meet client demands promptly and effectively. Her goal is to empower businesses to focus on growth while confidently entrusting financial management to our team. Outside of work, Ramona finds joy in exploring the vast natural beauty of the Flathead Valley through hiking, kayaking, and appreciating live music venues. Her love for travel across the USA and passion for tea round out her vibrant interests, reflecting a balanced and adventurous spirit that enriches her professional contributions. |
[email protected]
406-607-8144 |
Cathleen's journey is rooted in the Mission Valley, where she attended Charlo High School and discovered her affinity for numbers through excelling in business math and accounting classes. Her professional path began at a local tax company, gaining valuable experience in personal and business tax processing while balancing responsibilities as a young parent.
Relocating to the Portland, Oregon area, Cathleen served as a bookkeeper and office manager for a building contractor for eight years, nurturing her skills in financial management and operations. Following this, she returned to her hometown of Polson, MT, where she met her husband and expanded her family, balancing roles as an accounting manager at a local resort while raising six children. Subsequent moves took Cathleen to Wyoming, where she temporarily worked with the Department of Family Services before rediscovering her passion for bookkeeping and accounting. Returning to Polson, MT with her husband, she transitioned into the role of financial administrator for a local non-profit organization while continuing to provide bookkeeping and income tax preparation services to local businesses on the side. Cathleen's diverse background and deep-rooted community ties align seamlessly with Elevated Advisory and Accounting's commitment to personalized financial services. Her extensive experience in tax processing, financial management, and nonprofit administration makes her a valuable asset, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and client-focused solutions. |
|
NJ possesses extensive accounting expertise, with a career spanning roles from small family-owned businesses to $14 billion publicly traded corporations. Her professional background is notably diverse, encompassing significant experience in marketing, fundraising, and event coordination.
She has a particular passion for budgeting and forecasting, and excels in analyzing company financials to develop strategies for enhancing operational efficiency and effectiveness. NJ embarked on her academic journey in Australia, where she studied for two years before completing her Bachelor's Degree at the University of San Diego. Following graduation, NJ traveled extensively throughout Central America, where she managed and operated all-women’s surf camps in Costa Rica and Panama. She eventually returned to Montana to be closer to her family and to explore the varied outdoor recreational opportunities that Northwest Montana offers. Her favorite outdoor pursuits include dirt biking, wake surfing, backpacking, and camping. This year, she is eager to expand her adventures by adding snow biking to her repertoire. |
