More Than Thirty Years Helping Business Owners Navigate Important Decisions
Throughout my career I've worked inside the IRS, with a Big Four accounting firm,
an Am Law 100 law firm, owned my own CPA practice,
and today serve privately held business owners at Blue & Co.
Those experiences shaped how I think—not just about taxes,
but about businesses, ownership,
and the people behind them.
My Approach
Every tax return tells a story. Behind every balance sheet is a business owner making difficult decisions, building something meaningful, and planning for what's next. My approach has always been to look beyond compliance and help clients make informed decisions before the tax return is ever filed.
My Journey
IRS
Learned how tax authorities think
Ernst & Young
Large complex businesses
Duane Morris
Tax compliance & litigation support
Private Practice
Jelena S. Allen CPA Corporation
Owning my own CPA practice gave me a perspective that can't be learned from a textbook.
Every client relationship was personal, every decision mattered,
and I experienced firsthand the challenges of building, operating,
and eventually transitioning a professional services business.
That experience continues to shape how I advise business owners today.
The Next Chapter
Today, as a Senior Tax Manager with Blue & Co.,
I combine the perspective gained from government, Big Four, law firm, and business ownership experience
to help privately held businesses navigate growth, ownership transitions, and long-term success.
What Makes My Perspective Different?
-
I've worked in government, Big Four, law firms, private practice, and regional public accounting.
-
Helping owners understand what their business is worth—and why.
-
Preparing owners years before a transition rather than months before.
-
Working alongside owners as businesses evolve through growth, succession, and change.
Experience
At A
Glance
30+ Years Experience
CPA Licensed in Kentucky & California
CVA | Certified Valuation Analyst
CEPA | Certified Exit Planning Advisor
Big Four Experience
IRS Experience
AM Law 100 Law Firm
Business Owner
Blue & Co | Blue Value Advisors
Beyond the Office
Just as every business has a story behind the numbers, every advisor has experiences that shape how they serve others. Here are a few of the interests and moments that have influenced who I am outside of work.
A longtime Tour de France fan who appreciates strategy, discipline, and perseverance
Always reading, attending conferences, and looking for ways to better serve clients
Whether it's a walk, a home project, or time outdoors, I value the moments that help me recharge
Enjoying road trips, local history, and discovering new places after relocating
Time with family is what reminds me why helping business owners build lasting legacies matters