Brandon Chau

Brandon Chau is a dedicated tax associate at SD Mayer & Associates LLP, bringing a unique blend of academic achievement and practical experience to his role. Brandon’s journey in accounting began with a 3.5-month internship at SJ Wiggins & Co., where he gained invaluable insights and hands-on experience in the field. Before transitioning into accounting, Brandon worked at Adams Chiropractic Office, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability across different professional environments.

Brandon holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management and a Master’s degree in Accounting from San Jose State University. His diverse educational background equips him with a comprehensive understanding of both organizational dynamics and specialized accounting practices, enhancing his ability to provide exceptional service to his clients.

Living with his parents and older brother, Brandon values family time and enjoys outdoor activities such as walking on the beach and hiking on nearby trails. He is an avid video gamer, often spending his spare time playing with his brother or friends. In addition to his love for gaming, Brandon enjoys watching anime and movies, which provide him with a source of relaxation and inspiration.

Brandon Chau’s commitment to his profession, combined with his enthusiasm for his personal interests, makes him a well-rounded and valuable member of the SD Mayer & Associates team. His blend of practical experience, academic prowess, and personal passion ensures he delivers top-notch tax services to his clients.

Michelle Luo is a dedicated and highly skilled tax associate at SD Mayer & Associates LLP, bringing over a decade of experience in the accounting industry. Her expertise has been honed through five years of specialized work in tax, making her a valuable asset to the firm and its clients.

Prior to joining SD Mayer & Associates, Michelle worked at MRBK Accountants & Consultants, where she developed a strong foundation in various accounting practices and tax regulations. Her bilingual proficiency in Chinese and English enables her to serve a diverse clientele, providing tailored and comprehensive tax solutions.

Michelle’s academic journey began in Wuhan, China, where she studied accounting and earned her degree before obtaining her CPA license. This robust educational background, combined with her extensive professional experience, underscores her commitment to excellence in the field of accounting.

Outside of her professional life, Michelle is an avid sports enthusiast. She enjoys playing pickleball and table tennis, and her active lifestyle extends to hiking and traveling. Michelle also values social connections, often spending time with friends and building relationships within her community.

With her unique blend of expertise, cultural knowledge, and personal interests, Michelle Luo continues to excel as a tax associate, delivering exceptional service and insights to her clients at SD Mayer & Associates LLP.

Mayrenn Galvez is a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the legal and tax sectors, having dedicated 22 years of her career to serving a diverse range of clients at Seifer, Murken, Despina, James & Teichman. In 2023, she embarked on a new chapter in her career, joining SD Mayer & Associates as an Office Administrator. A proud alumna of Maryhill College in the Philippines, Mayrenn’s academic background laid a solid foundation for her illustrious career. When she’s not expertly managing office operations or navigating complex administrative challenges, Mayrenn can be found indulging in her love for the great outdoors, particularly through camping and hiking. Travel holds a special place in her heart, offering her opportunities to explore new cultures and cuisines. Moreover, she takes great joy in supporting her daughter’s passion for volleyball, often traveling to tournaments to cheer her on. Whether dining out or embarking on a new adventure, Mayrenn’s enthusiasm for life’s simple pleasures is infectious.

Trysta Obee is a distinguished consultant within SD Mayer’s Outsourced Accounting practice, where her expertise in financial accounting, data processing, and sales reporting modules significantly enhances the firm’s service offerings. With over eight years of experience in the accounting field and a solid foundation as a public notary for five years, Trysta brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique skill set to the table.

Prior to joining SD Mayer, Trysta honed her skills at several prominent organizations, including Eternal Beverages Inc, where she immersed herself in the intricacies of manufacturing and B2C product sales. At Robert Half International, she further developed her expertise in financial staffing and consulting, while her tenure at BLVD Residential (formerly RW Zukin) allowed her to explore the multi-unit residential property management industry. Throughout her career, Trysta has adeptly managed heavy data processing tasks, contributed to financial audits, and led sales reporting initiatives across a diverse range of industries.

Trysta’s academic background is equally impressive. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics from San Jose State University (SJSU), demonstrating her adeptness at leveraging data to drive business decisions. Further solidifying her accounting expertise, Trysta obtained an AA in Accounting and a Certificate in Advanced Accounting from De Anza College. She is also a licensed notary, adding a valuable dimension to her professional capabilities.

Outside the office, Trysta’s life is rich with creativity and exploration. She is a devoted mother to two amazingly talented daughters, Eiliyah and Zamira, and a caring owner to Luna, their spirited husky. Together, they enjoy creating art, experimenting with new culinary dishes, touring museums, attending local events, and embracing the beauty of the outdoors on their walks. Trysta’s personal interests reflect her professional ethos: a commitment to innovation, a passion for learning, and a dedication to community.

In her role at SD Mayer, Trysta Obee continues to exemplify excellence in outsourced accounting, driven by her extensive experience, academic achievements, and a personal life filled with creativity and exploration. Her contributions not only enhance the firm’s capabilities but also enrich the financial strategies of the diverse clientele she serves.

Jennifer embodies the epitome of professional excellence, seamlessly blending her expertise in political science with the precision of accounting. Commencing her professional journey in 2023 with our esteemed Outsourced Accounting practice, Jennifer has swiftly proven herself as an invaluable asset to our team.

Prior to joining us, Jennifer garnered extensive experience with renowned organizations such as BLVD Residential, HMH Engineers, Ruth & Going, and ReSurge International. Throughout her six years of professional tenure, she not only honed her technical acumen but also demonstrated remarkable adaptability across various accounting environments.

Jennifer’s educational background, anchored by a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from San Francisco State University, adds a profound layer of understanding to her professional endeavors. This foundation equips her with a nuanced comprehension of societal systems and structures, which she adeptly integrates into her financial analyses.

What sets Jennifer apart is her unique perspective—a synthesis of political insight and accounting proficiency. Beyond mere numerical calculations, she considers the broader societal and political implications of financial decisions. In the intricate landscape of accounting, where every entry carries weight and ramifications, Jennifer’s holistic approach proves invaluable.

As Jennifer continues to evolve in her role, her exceptional blend of skills ensures she remains a vital contributor not only to our firm but also to the wider domain of finance. With her steadfast commitment to excellence and unparalleled expertise, Jennifer stands poised to make enduring contributions in her field.

In the dynamic landscape of taxation, where the intricacies of financial statutes often overlap with the personal aspirations of individuals and businesses, Cyndel shines as a beacon of expertise and precision. Joining our firm in 2023, she quickly became an invaluable asset to our tax department with her comprehensive knowledge and experience.

Specializing in high-net-worth individuals, Cyndel understands the unique challenges and opportunities this niche presents. From the complexities of stock options, capital gains, and diverse investment portfolios to the subtleties of estate and legacy planning, Cyndel offers a meticulous and strategic approach.

Moreover, her prowess in tax planning ensures that her clients not only remain compliant but also optimize their tax positions, maximizing returns and minimizing liabilities. Her expertise with passthrough entities and small businesses further underscores her holistic understanding of the tax landscape. For businesses, whether they operate as an S-Corp, LLC, or partnership, Cyndel’s guidance has been instrumental in navigating the intricate layers of deductions, credits, and revenue allocations.

Cyndel’s decade-long tenure as the Senior Tax Manager at a San Mateo-based accounting firm provided her with a depth of experience, solidifying her place as an industry veteran. It’s not just her technical expertise that stands out, but also her ability to build and nurture long-term client relationships, understanding their individual needs, and providing solutions that resonate with their financial goals.

Her academic credentials are just as formidable. A proud graduate of the University of the Philippines, Cyndel’s foundation in Business Economics gives her a unique perspective, allowing her to weave macroeconomic principles into individual tax strategies. Additionally, as an enrolled agent, she possesses the federally recognized expertise in taxation, further testament to her commitment to excellence in the field.

In Cyndel, our clients find more than just a tax consultant. They discover a strategic partner, an advisor who delves deep into the numbers to unearth opportunities, and a professional whose dedication to their financial well-being is both unwavering and unparalleled. As she continues to redefine excellence in our tax department, we look forward to the value and insight Cyndel will bring in the years to come.

When Kara joined SD Mayer in 2023, it was clear that she wasn’t just another addition to the Outsourced Accounting practice. With a storied background in the manufacturing, construction, and property management sectors, Kara’s experience presents a diversified approach to the accounting landscape.

However, it’s her Bachelor in Arts from UC Santa Cruz, majoring in United States and African History, that gives her a truly unique edge. Drawing parallels between the timelines of civilizations and the chronological records of financial transactions might seem far-fetched to some, but Kara seamlessly integrates the two, rendering a broader perspective to accounting.

History, as they say, is about understanding patterns, tracking developments, and narrating tales of growth, decline, and resurgence. In many ways, accounting resonates with the same essence. Kara’s academic grounding in history has honed her skills in meticulous documentation, unbiased analysis, and comprehensive understanding, all critical attributes in the world of finance.

Kara’s ability to juxtapose her historical knowledge with the real-time financial scenarios she encounters brings a refreshing depth to her role. She doesn’t just see numbers; she sees stories, patterns, and implications. In a world of evolving business landscapes, Kara’s interpretative and analytical prowess aids in not just recounting financial events, but in contextualizing and understanding them.

At SD Mayer, Kara’s presence is a testament to the idea that diverse academic backgrounds can offer invaluable, unique insights even in seemingly unrelated fields. She’s a historian who chronicles the financial tales of today, proving that understanding our past can indeed shape our fiscal futures.

Alona joined the SD Mayer family in 2022 and swiftly assumed the crucial role of Office Manager at our San Mateo branch. With a rich tapestry of professional experiences, she embodies the qualities of a quintessential manager, seamlessly ensuring the smooth day-to-day functioning of the office.

Her time as an administrative assistant in a San Francisco property management firm was marked by a meticulous approach and a knack for understanding the intricate details of administrative functions. Three years in this role honed her skills, preparing her for the diverse challenges of her next assignment. At the Teaspoon Franchising Company, Alona showcased her adeptness with numbers as a bookkeeper. From handling accounts receivable and payable to taking on payroll duties, from reconciling bank statements to crafting financial reports, her proficiency left an indelible mark.

These roles, combined with her four-year tenure as an office manager at another prestigious accounting firm, have equipped Alona with a distinct set of skills that now benefit SD Mayer. It’s clear that when it comes to organizational management and administration, Alona is no stranger to the intricacies and demands.

Notably, Alona’s educational journey took root in the Philippines, where she delved deep into computer education. This foundation surely plays a pivotal role in her ability to integrate technology seamlessly into her management style.

In Alona, SD Mayer has not only a skilled professional but also a dynamic team player who brings warmth, efficiency, and a touch of her unique journey to our bustling San Mateo location.

Rob, a recent yet formidable addition to our team in late-2022, serves as an Outsourced Accounting Manager. He brings a robust understanding of accounting, backed by an exemplary command over U.S. GAAP and FASB regulations. His journey over the past decade has seen him operate in the demanding realms of real estate as both a Controller and a consultant. Before this, he honed his skills in the dynamic restaurant industry, gathering invaluable experience and insights.

Adept at orchestrating monthly cash flows and budgets, Rob’s prowess extends to crafting precise monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements. Moreover, his meticulous approach ensures seamless reconciliations of GL accounts, assuring accuracy and compliance.

Rob’s academic credentials complement his professional achievements, holding a degree in Accounting and Business Management. At our firm, Rob stands as an embodiment of excellence and commitment, guiding our outsourced accounting endeavors with unmatched proficiency.

WanJun is one of the newer additions to the SD Mayer family, having joined us in 2022 following the strategic acquisition of Vocker Kristofferson and Co. CPAs. Though relatively new to the accounting world with her professional journey starting in 2019, WanJun has already demonstrated her capability and adaptability, serving in both tax and audit departments with equal aplomb.

In her tenure as an accountant, she has shown significant proficiency in tax matters, including handling individual, corporate, and nonprofit clients. WanJun’s audit expertise is also expansive, with a special emphasis on auditing analytical procedures, meticulous engagement planning and testing, financial statement preparation, and adjustments to trial balances. Moreover, she’s adept at crafting Independent Auditor Reports that reflect accuracy and clarity, integral for a firm’s reputation.

An alumna of San Francisco State University, WanJun graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting in 2019. This strong academic background, coupled with her on-the-job experiences, has positioned her as an emerging talent in the world of accounting.

With her keen attention to detail and an evident passion for the field, WanJun has swiftly become an invaluable asset to SD Mayer and our esteemed clientele. As she continues her journey with us, we’re eager to see her explore even greater heights in her career.

With a distinguished career spanning over 15 years in the realms of accounting and finance, Michael’s professional trajectory is both impressive and inspiring. His journey has seen him affiliate with industry giants like Novogradac & Company and Wells Fargo, weaving a tapestry of experiences that have shaped his expertise. An integral chapter of his career unfolded with Vocker Kristofferson and Co., a renowned establishment that merged with SD Mayer in 2022, further broadening Michael’s horizons.

Now, as a Partner with SD Mayer, Michael’s role is multi-faceted. He diligently serves a diverse clientele ranging from individuals to high wealth families, partnerships, corporations, and nonprofits. His profound insights into various sectors like real estate, stock options, estate tax, small businesses, and trusts empower his clients to navigate the intricate world of finance with confidence and clarity.

Michael’s specialization extends to collaborating closely with high-net-worth individuals and families, offering them tailored financial strategies that optimize their wealth and ensure its growth and protection. His comprehensive understanding of the nonprofit sector further solidifies his reputation as a versatile financial expert.

Academically, Michael’s credentials mirror his professional achievements. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, accentuated with an Accounting emphasis, from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Further honing his specialization, he pursued and acquired a Master’s degree in Taxation from the esteemed Golden Gate University.

In sum, Michael’s amalgamation of hands-on experience, theoretical knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to excellence makes him a cornerstone of SD Mayer and a trusted advisor in the accounting and finance landscape.