As a CPA with auditing and consulting experience, Kelly A. Telford is glad to be back at LSL CPAs after serving in Financial Director and City Treasurer positions at the Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) and the cities of Costa Mesa and Seal Beach, California.
Kelly was originally a math major but decided to focus on accounting when she learned it was similar to conducting investigations. Her joy comes from searching for new ways to help clients achieve their goals. Plus, she comes from a long line of CPAs and obtaining her CPA in 2008 just made sense.
Through her experiences in local government agencies, she gained expertise in accounting, financial forecasting, budget development, public utilities, investment management, grant management, human resources, and information technology. She applies all she’s learned to LSL clients’ needs, which may include shifting from some conventional approaches to more innovative ways to achieve an organizations goals and objectives.
Great Clients for Kelly… Leveraging her experience in local government agencies—including large and small cities, redevelopment agencies, special districts, and Native American Tribes and Tribal casinos—she can serve as an extension of clients’ Finance Departments to help with budgeting, planning, or whatever they require.
LSL Candidate Tip…For Kelly, consulting and auditing in government agencies have helped her better understand and appreciate the demands of these entities. She strives to achieve improved financial reporting, internal controls, and efficiencies while focusing on transparency, trust, and teamwork. “I like to have a collaborative relationship year-round, not just during audit season.”
Personal … Kelly has two kids who love sports. ”My favorite thing is watching my son run for a touchdown or get an interception in football and seeing my daughter learn to play t-ball.”
Professional and Civic Involvement:
Firm Member, Prime Global
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
California Society of Certified Public Accountants (CalCPA)
California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO)
Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA)
Government Finance Officers Association of Texas (GFOAT)
Education:
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Accounting – California State University, Fullerton, 2003