On January 1, 2019, SobelCo, announced that Mariana Moghadam and John R. Mellage as Members of the Firm. Both had made significant contributions to the firm’s leadership team in their previous roles as Senior Managers, working with clients, colleagues, and the community for several years.
“The SobelCo partnership team welcomes John and Mariana, acknowledging the depth of their technical skills but, more importantly, their industry specific-knowledge and their business acumen,” said Alan Sobel, Managing Member of the Firm. “We appreciate their insights and pragmatic approach to providing clients with smart solutions to complicated and complex business challenges. Naming these two as new Members was essential as we position the firm for a bright and prosperous future.”
Mariana Moghadam and John R. Mellage have positively influenced the firm’s success with proven track records earned by serving business owners in key niches across the region. Mariana Moghadam’s career has spanned more than two decades in public accounting, so when she joined SobelCo, she assumed the role of Tax Director and was responsible for directing the firm’s real estate practice. This dual role acknowledged her depth of experience in the real estate sector and her extensive tax background. Working with private and public companies across a range of industries, her expertise in serving real estate and construction is where Moghadam delivers distinctive benefits. As such, Mariana assists the firm’s clients, applying specialized real estate consulting services such as analysis of complex acquisitions and dispositions, guidance on deal structures, tenancy-in-common structures, and like-kind exchange transactions.
When the announcement was made at the SobelCo Town Hall meeting, Mariana said, “I am honored to be a Member of the Firm. I know that admission to the partnership of a public accounting firm is an accomplishment that takes commitment, dedication, perseverance, and hard work, which I would not have been able to do without the help and guidance of the people surrounding me. But I am most proud to be recognized for my internal role as a leader and mentor for our staff.
I look forward to leveraging the knowledge I have gained over the years to help our clients navigate through complex tax regulations and structure deals and transactions in the most tax-efficient manner.”
On being named Member of the Firm, John R. Mellage also spoke, commenting that he looks forward to continuing to draw on his passion for serving family businesses as a key driver for his career. “I have always been intrigued by the unique characteristics families in business share, from pride in the family reputation to their approach to a long-term commitment that focuses on preserving the business for future generations to their dedication to ensuring a lasting legacy. These families are not only the lifeblood of our economy but also the foundation of our firm. Working with closely held clients who juggle the emotional side of the family while effectively managing the business challenges has always been the most rewarding part of my role. Whether it is through evaluating their business and personal goals, sharing industry trends, offering strategies, and developing solutions, the intimate connection I can develop with clients as their trusted advisor is the key to what I do. I have worked with family-owned businesses my entire career, and watching them achieve their goals has always been the most meaningful aspect for me.” Mellage’s understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing mid-size, privately held clients gives them a competitive advantage in today’s sophisticated marketplace. In addition, John draws on his abilities to manage audits, compilations, reviews, and other attestation engagements for clients of all sizes. From start-up entrepreneurs to established companies with revenue up to $400 million – he has enabled John to have a meaningful impact, especially in the areas of retail, manufacturing/distribution, nonprofit, and construction, where he has spent many years of his career.
Alan Sobel concluded with this observation, “As we look ahead, framing our short- and long-term strategies for success and sustainability, it is critical for us to attract and retain key talents like Mariana and John. We are constantly reaffirming our commitment to our people, which has always been at the foundation of our 63-year-old legacy for excellence,” Alan Sobel.
