Pei-Ling Lee

Pei-Ling joined the Five Buckets Foundation in January 2024, bringing her wealth of experience in marketing communications, coaching, and wellness to the forefront of our organization. Her dedication to improving systems and enhancing our brand impact is already evident in the strides we’ve made since she joined the team.

With a passion for financial literacy education and working with young adults, Pei-Ling embodies the core belief that financial wellness is essential to overall health and well-being. Furthermore, she received her B.A., summa cum laude, from Boston College, including a year of studying abroad at the London School of Economics. Pei-Ling is also an RYT-200 certified yoga teacher and Mastery Method trained coach.

Pei-Ling’s collaborative spirit and innovative mindset have already proven to be invaluable assets as we continue to grow in scope and impact.

Jamie Bell brings a wealth of experience and a diverse skill set to her role as Executive Assistant to the Managing Partner at SD Mayer. With her meticulous organization skills and a keen eye for detail, Jamie is instrumental in streamlining the daily operations of the firm’s leadership, ensuring efficiency and productivity at the highest levels.

Before joining SD Mayer, Jamie honed her expertise at Grant Thornton LLP, where she played a pivotal role in supporting senior management. Her tenure at Grant Thornton allowed her to develop a deep understanding of the nuances of professional services firms, making her an invaluable asset to SD Mayer’s executive team.

Jamie’s professional journey is characterized by a diverse background that spans finance and law, providing her with a unique perspective that she leverages to address the complex needs of the managing partner’s office. Her problem-solving abilities and proactive approach to challenges make her a central figure in the firm’s operations.

Academically, Jamie pursued computer science at California State University, Chico, equipping her with a strong foundation in technology that enhances her effectiveness in her current role. Her technical skills allow her to navigate and manage the digital aspects of her responsibilities with ease.

Outside of her professional life, Jamie is an empty nester and a proud mother to an active college student. She cherishes spending quality time with her family and friends, sharing meals, and exploring local sites, attractions, and nature. Jamie’s love for the outdoors and her community often sees her discovering new places and experiences.

In her free time, Jamie indulges in a variety of creative pursuits that reflect her artistic side. She is passionate about reading, music, and crafting, with a particular talent for making friendship bracelets for events. Additionally, Jamie enjoys sewing, crochet, and embroidery, hobbies that not only allow her to express her creativity but also bring joy to those around her through her handmade creations.

Jamie Bell’s multifaceted career and personal interests highlight her dynamic personality and dedication. At SD Mayer, she continues to make significant contributions through her professional role while enriching her life and the lives of others with her hobbies and family-oriented values.

Irene Velarde is a seasoned tax administrator whose meticulous work and dedication have been pivotal in the smooth operation of tax services at her previous firm, Seifer Murken Despina James & Teichman, which merged into SD Mayer in 2023. Bringing over two decades of invaluable experience, Irene has mastered the intricacies of tax operations, demonstrating exceptional proficiency and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

At the core of her responsibilities, Irene expertly manages the e-filing of all electronic tax returns, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards. She is instrumental in generating and distributing tax organizers, as well as creating proformas, which are critical in the preparatory stages of tax return processing. Her role extends to coordinating with colleagues, such as Mayrenn and April, to facilitate the post-preparation and dispatch of returns to clients, showcasing her ability to lead and delegate effectively.

As the billing in-charge, Irene oversees the preparation of billing statements and the maintenance of client records related to billing and payments. Her role is vital in assisting clients with billing inquiries, payments, and the status of their tax returns. Furthermore, she skillfully manages tax appointments and ensures clients are directed to the appropriate personnel for their queries, enhancing client satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Irene’s academic journey includes a year of college at the University of the City of Manila in the Philippines, followed by earning a certificate in Computerized Accounting from the Computer Learning School in San Francisco in 1988. This educational background, combined with her extensive experience, forms the foundation of her expertise in tax administration.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Irene finds joy and relaxation in nature and simple pleasures. She enjoys walking by the lake, beach, or mountains and engaging in camping or picnic outings with family, friends, and relatives. Her love for humor is reflected in her fondness for watching funny videos, providing a welcome respite and laughter in her leisure time. Irene is also a food enthusiast who appreciates the simple delight of steamed, baked, and fried fish. At home, she values quiet time spent engaging in household chores, finding satisfaction and peace in the tranquility of her domestic environment.

Irene Velarde’s blend of professional acumen, leadership, and personal interests makes her a remarkable member of our team. Her contributions to tax operations and client services are invaluable, and her passion for her work and life outside the office enriches our community.

Randi S. Teichman is a distinguished attorney who has carved a niche for herself in the legal landscape through her specialization in estate planning, trust administration, and probate law. Her expertise extends into tax law, encompassing the preparation of individual and fiduciary income tax returns as well as estate tax returns, making her a versatile advocate for her clients’ legal and financial health.

A product of esteemed institutions, Randi’s academic credentials include a law degree from Stanford University (1988), a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (1984), and an LLM in Taxation from Golden Gate University (1999). These academic achievements laid the foundation for her successful career and her profound understanding of the complexities of estate and tax law.

Randi is a respected member of the estate planning, trust, and probate law sections of both the California State Bar and San Francisco Bar Association. Her dedication and expertise have earned her the distinction of being a certified specialist in estate planning, trust, and probate law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization.

With a commitment to delivering personalized legal and tax services, Randi approaches each client with a keen ear and a compassionate heart. She excels in translating her clients’ needs and desires into robust legal documents, ensuring their peace of mind and security. Her comprehensive approach to tax matters enables her clients to optimize their tax positions effectively.

Over her 25-plus years of practice, Randi has become a trusted advisor to executors and trustees, guiding them through the complexities of probate and trust administration during the challenging times of loss. Her skilled and compassionate counsel is a testament to her deep experience and genuine care for her clients.

Randi’s excellence in law has not gone unnoticed by her peers. She has been honored with an AV rating, indicating the highest level of professional excellence. Furthermore, her outstanding service and legal acumen were recognized when San Francisco Magazine named her a Northern California Super Lawyer in 2005 and 2006.

Away from the legal arena, Randi finds solace and rejuvenation in the great outdoors. An avid hiker, she frequently explores the trails of Mount Tamalpais in Marin County, embracing the natural beauty and tranquility that hiking affords. This passion for nature reflects her balanced approach to life, harmonizing her professional rigor with personal fulfillment.

Randi S. Teichman’s legal prowess, combined with her commitment to her clients and love for the outdoors, makes her a remarkable attorney and a valued member of the legal community.

April Rosario is a cornerstone of our administrative team, currently thriving as an office administrator. With a career that spans over two decades, April has been instrumental in supporting the seamless operations of her previous firm, Seifer Murken Despina James & Teichman, which became a part of SD Mayer in 2023. This merger brought her extensive experience and invaluable expertise into our fold, further enriching our firm’s capabilities.

April’s journey in the professional world began in the bustling environment of a small law practice, where she honed her skills and established herself as a pivotal member of the team. Her role primarily focused on administrative assistance, where she played a crucial part in the preparation of tax returns for individuals. Beyond this, April managed bookkeeping tasks with precision and care, ensuring financial records were meticulously maintained.

Her responsibilities didn’t stop there; April was also the go-to person for a plethora of general office duties. From copying, mailing, and scanning to managing office supplies, her role was central to keeping the day-to-day operations smooth and efficient. April’s ability to juggle these diverse tasks, all while maintaining a high level of organization and attention to detail, speaks volumes about her dedication and work ethic.

Outside the office, April leads a life full of exploration and enjoyment. She has a passion for traveling, always eager to discover new places and immerse herself in different cultures. When not on the move, April finds joy in window shopping, a leisurely activity that allows her to stay abreast of the latest trends and find inspiration. Dining with friends is another of her cherished pastimes, offering her the opportunity to unwind and relish good food and great company.

April Rosario’s blend of professional acumen and personal interests makes her a dynamic and beloved member of our team. Her contributions to the firm are immeasurable, and her spirit of collaboration and excellence continues to inspire those around her.

Susan Shelton stands as a beacon of expertise and dedication in the realm of tax services, currently excelling as a supervisor in our tax department. With an impressive tenure of over 15 years in public accounting, Susan has cultivated a rich expertise that spans the full spectrum of tax-related services. Her professional journey embarked with a strong foundation in audit, where she developed a keen analytical acumen and an unwavering attention to detail, ensuring rigorous compliance across the board.

Susan’s career trajectory took a specialized turn as she delved into the low-income housing tax credit sector, working extensively with nonprofits and partnerships. This niche provided her with a profound grasp of complex tax frameworks and the nuances of financial reporting for entities facing unique tax challenges. In recent times, Susan has channeled her focus towards providing top-tier tax services to high net worth individuals, alongside managing trust, estate, gift, and business entity returns. Her approach is characterized by a commitment to excellence, a proactive stance on problem-solving, and a continuous effort to stay at the forefront of tax legislation changes.

A graduate of San Francisco State University with a degree in business accounting, Susan’s academic background laid the groundwork for her successful career. Further solidifying her credentials, she is an enrolled agent certified by the IRS, a testament to her extensive tax knowledge and authority to represent taxpayers.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Susan is an avid lover of the outdoors. Whether it’s rollerblading along scenic paths, skiing down pristine slopes, hiking the beach, or enjoying a leisurely round of golf, Susan finds joy and rejuvenation in nature’s embrace. Her passion for outdoor activities not only reflects her dynamic personality but also her belief in the importance of balance between professional commitments and personal well-being.

Susan Shelton’s journey in the tax domain is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, deep-seated expertise, and a genuine commitment to fostering enduring client relationships. Her contributions to our tax department and the broader accounting community are invaluable, and her future endeavors are anticipated with great enthusiasm.

Robby, an esteemed Audit Associate at SD Mayer, joined our team in the fall of 2023. A seasoned auditor, he boasts a portfolio that includes working with esteemed firms such as EDD and Mah & Associates. Over the years, Robby has carved out a niche in payroll tax auditing, employee benefit plans, and in the intricate domains of nonprofit and governmental audits.

An alumnus of California State University East Bay, Robby holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a special focus on Accounting. Passionate about continued growth, he’s currently navigating the pathway to securing his CPA license.

Away from the numbers and financial statements, Robby’s life is equally vibrant. A proud pet parent, he shares a bond with his golden doodle, Aace. A fitness aficionado, Robby’s regimen includes rigorous workouts and weightlifting sessions. His affinity for the outdoors often finds him hiking, while his quieter moments are reserved for indulging in literature.

In the dynamic landscape of human resources, few professionals bring as rich and varied an experience as Jill. With 30 years rooted in corporate retail and an impressive 20-year tenure in human resources, she has cultivated a portfolio that stands testament to her versatility, dedication, and expertise.

Jill’s expansive career has seen her at the helm of multiple HR domains. From pioneering communication strategies and forging engagement pathways to innovating recruiting mechanisms and steering developmental programs, she has been the force behind myriad HR success stories. Particularly noteworthy is her prowess in orchestrating OE/OD globalization strategy initiatives, underlining her ability to not just envision transformative strategies but also flawlessly execute them.

Jill’s transition to SD Mayer is nothing short of momentous. As the firm’s inaugural dedicated human resources personnel, she is set to chart new courses and elevate existing HR practices. Her vision and expertise will be pivotal as she partners with the executive team, focusing on the refinement of benefits, compensation structures, performance management, and policy formulation. Additionally, given her extensive background in recruitment, her insights will be key in crafting a robust and future-proof recruiting strategy for the firm.

Jill’s qualifications aren’t just limited to her professional achievements. A proud alumna of the University of Colorado Boulder, she brings an academic rigor to her work, seamlessly merging theory with practice.

Beyond her professional accolades, Jill is a fervent advocate of work-life balance. Married for 25 years (and having met her husband in college) and a doting mother to two daughters, she is deeply family-oriented. Her passions extend to the outdoors, where she finds solace in biking through nature’s trails, setting up camp in the wilderness, nurturing her garden, and traveling to explore the wonders of the world.

In Jill, SD Mayer hasn’t just gained an HR expert; they’ve onboarded a visionary, a strategist, and above all, a professional deeply committed to people and their growth. As she embarks on this new chapter, the future of HR at SD Mayer looks brighter than ever.

When Josiah joined the team as an audit associate in fall 2023, he brought with him a unique perspective shaped by his prior stint in finance. Working as a loan officer at Aegis Lending Corporation, Josiah navigated the intricate world of finance, where precision, attention to detail, and a keen sense for numbers were paramount. This invaluable experience undoubtedly serves as an asset in his new role as an audit associate, allowing him to see beyond just the numbers and understand the story they tell.

His academic journey is just as impressive. Earning his bachelor’s degree from the esteemed California State University East Bay, Josiah pursued Business Administration with a concentration in accounting. This solid foundation in business and accounting principles has prepared him well for the challenges of the auditing world. And now, with his active preparation for the CPA exam, Josiah underscores his commitment to excellence and a desire to continuously enhance his professional credentials.

But there’s more to Josiah than just work and academia. He values the bonds of relationships, cherishing the time spent with his partner of over a decade. Together, accompanied by their two loyal dogs, they make memories, exploring the great outdoors. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Josiah and his partner are always on the lookout for the next adventure, making the most of their time together and embracing the beauty of the world.

In sum, Josiah’s journey from finance to auditing, combined with his love for adventure and family, make him a well-rounded professional and a valuable member of the team. His experiences both inside and outside the office contribute to a unique perspective that enhances his professional contributions.

In the realm of tax expertise, particularly in the intricate domain of nonprofit taxation, Madelyn stands out as a paragon of excellence. With a career that spans across significant milestones, she brings with her a vast trove of experience and knowledge to SD Mayer.

Madelyn’s journey began with Hood & Strong, where she honed her skills for a commendable seven years. By the time she transitioned to SD Mayer in 2023, Madelyn had already etched her mark as a formidable force in the industry.

Holding a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from the prestigious Chapman University, Madelyn’s academic credentials are as solid as her professional prowess. Her commitment to the field is further exemplified by her active memberships with CalCPA and AICPA. Beyond her professional affiliations, Madelyn showcases her dedication to community and leadership through her involvement with the Junior League of Oakland/East Bay.

Yet, there’s much more to Madelyn than just balance sheets and tax codes. She’s a culinary enthusiast, always on the hunt for new recipes to try. Sources of her inspiration? The Food Network app, Tasty, and the myriad of social media channels where delectable recipes beckon her. Her passion doesn’t stop at the kitchen door, though.

A die-hard sports aficionado, Madelyn’s heart beats for the 49ers, the Golden State Warriors, and the San Francisco Giants. She wears her loyalty on her sleeve, cheering for her teams with an enthusiasm that’s infectious.

Travel is another avenue where Madelyn’s spirit soars. With an ever-growing list of places to explore, she remains ever eager to add more destinations. And if you ever have a recommendation, she’s all ears!

At SD Mayer, Madelyn is not just an accountant. She’s a reservoir of knowledge, a culinary explorer, a fervent sports fan, and a globe-trotter, all in one. And that’s what makes her such an invaluable asset to the team.

Fadi is more than an auditor; he’s a bridge between numbers and narratives. With an enviable career spanning over two decades in the auditing and assurance realm, he has been at the forefront, working with the crème de la crème of the industry, including stalwarts like Marcum LLP, Lindquist LLP, KPMG, and Deloitte. His vast experience encompasses an impressive spectrum – from financial statement audits and reviews to examinations, single audits, and even specialized procedures that only a few in the industry can claim expertise in.

His client portfolio is equally diverse, reflecting his ability to seamlessly navigate different industries and entities. Whether it’s biotech firms racing against time to bring innovations to life, financial powerhouses making strategic moves, manufacturing giants fine-tuning their production processes, or nonprofit organizations striving to make a difference, Fadi has been there, ensuring financial transparency and accuracy. His work with employee benefit plans, government units, and public agencies underlines his versatility and commitment to upholding the highest standards of the profession.

However, what’s truly unique about Fadi is his academic and cultural foundation. With a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Al Albayt University in Jordan, he brings a global perspective to his work, seamlessly blending Western best practices with Middle Eastern insights. This, complemented by an active CPA license, sets him apart in the auditing world.

Yet, there’s another side to Fadi, one that’s far removed from balance sheets and ledgers. He is a family man at heart, cherishing moments with his wife and four sons. Their adventures range from camping under the stars to the adrenaline rush of soccer. Weekends are special, with hikes up Mount Diablo, soaking in the panoramic views of the Bay area and the mesmerizing cityscape of San Francisco. And if you ever come across breathtaking drone shots capturing the beauty of nature, chances are, they were taken by Fadi, the auditor with an eye for beauty.

In Fadi, we see the convergence of two worlds — the precision of auditing and the freedom of the great outdoors. This balance makes him not just an asset to his profession but also an inspiration to those around him.

Having kick-started his career with some of the most prestigious accounting firms in the region, including Young, Craig and Co LLP, Andersen, and Seiler LLP, Joe brings to SD Mayer a wealth of experience and a profound understanding of private client services. He joined our firm in 2022 and has rapidly become an integral member of our tax team.

Joe specializes in individual, estate, and trust returns. His adeptness at tax planning, especially for high net-worth clients in the Bay Area, is a testament to his expertise and dedication. Each project Joe undertakes reflects his commitment to precision, comprehensive research, and client satisfaction.

An alumnus of the University of San Francisco, Joe holds a degree in Finance. Currently, he’s ardently pursuing his CPA license, underscoring his commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. Excited by the myriad opportunities at SD Mayer, Joe is keen on broadening his horizons and scaling new heights in his career.

Outside the professional arena, Joe has a rich personal life. He cherishes moments spent with his long-time girlfriend, Madie, and shares a special bond with his senior Chihuahua, Slim. A sports enthusiast, Joe can often be found on the golf course or the tennis court, perfecting his game. A self-confessed foodie, Joe loves exploring the myriad gastronomic delights the City offers, always on the hunt for the next best restaurant.

At SD Mayer, we are thrilled to have Joe on board, confident that his unique blend of expertise, passion, and dedication will continue to contribute significantly to our firm’s growth and success.