3.5k
Success stories
Leverage our expertise from over 3,500 successful cases
40+
cannabis experts
Gain strategic insights from our team of over 40 specialists
15
years of excellence
Building on 15 years of 420CPA's proven excellence, trust in our industry leadership
3
offices over world
Access global perspectives and local insights through our 3 offices
$50m+
Savings
Client Saved $50m+ in 2024 alone
Your Trusted Partner for Expert Financial Solutions
Industry-Specific Expertise
Specialized insights and strategic guidance tailored specifically for the unique challenges and opportunities within the cannabis industry.
Proactive and Client-Centered
Our team anticipates client needs and focus relentlessly on delivering superior client service, ensuring satisfaction and success.
Commitment to Transparency
We uphold the highest standards of openness in all our communications, fostering trust and integrity with all stakeholders.
Value Oriented Solutions
We are committed to delivering high-quality strategies that provide substantial value and practical solutions to our clients.
Precision and Professionalism
Our approach is characterized by meticulous attention to detail and adherence to the highest professional and ethical standards.
Mutual Respect and Collaboration
We foster a culture of teamwork and respect, valuing every relationship and collaborating effectively to achieve shared goals.
Our Services
Professional Financial Partner for Every Stage of Your Business Journey
Startup
Start your cannabis venture with Verdant Strategies for strong financial planning.
Establishment
Support your growth with our advanced financial strategies and operational insights.
Growth & Maturity
Expand and excel with our strategic financial guidance for complex operations.
Merger & Acquisition
Optimize performance and prepare for exits with our sophisticated financial strategies.
Decline
Revitalize and restructure during downturns with Verdant Strategies' support.
Pioneering Financial Excellence in the Cannabis Industry
Empowering Cannabis Businesses with Financial Precision
#Marketing & Business Development
Scheri Mathaya
Marketing Manager
Scheri Mathaya
Marketing Manager
Scheri Mathaya is a creative powerhouse and a true Jane of All Trades, fueled by a passion for storytelling, community, and culture. Originally from Minnesota, she moved to California in 2017 to pursue her vision in the cannabis space—and hasn’t looked back since. With a strong background in sales, field marketing, brand development, and consumer engagement, Scheri is known for bringing brands to life through strategy, creativity, and meaningful connection. Whether she’s crafting content, producing events, or designing digital experiences, she leads with authenticity, joy, and intention.
Outside of work, she enjoys creating digital art, exploring new places, expressing herself through fashion, and immersing herself in culture and design.
Stephanie Cuffy-Jeffries
Business Development Administrator
Stephanie Cuffy-Jeffries
Business Development Administrator
Stephanie Cuffy-Jeffries joined 420 CPA as Business Development Administrator in 2023. With four years of experience supporting executives, she excels in optimizing business operations and fostering partnerships. In her spare time, Stephanie enjoys video games, anime, and working on independent films.Stephanie Cuffy-Jeffries joined 420 CPA as Business Development Administrator in 2023.
#Client Accounting Services
Melissa Walters
Client Relations Specialist
Melissa Walters
Client Relations Specialist
Melissa Walters joined 420 CPA in 2018 and focuses on client relations, tax notices, and project management. With a passion for seeing projects through to completion, she ensures clients are satisfied with the results. Outside of work, Melissa loves hiking, traveling, and spending time with her family.
Mary Ann Canlapan
CAS & Tax Administration Lead I
Mary Ann Canlapan
CAS & Tax Administration Lead I
Mary Ann Canlapan, CPA, has nearly 10 years of experience in accounting, serving clients from Australia, the US, and the Philippines. With her extensive skills, she brings high-quality service to Verdant Strategies clients. Outside work, Mary Ann enjoys recording music, playing mobile games, and watching documentaries.
Milen Gomez
Client Accounting Services Lead I
Milen Gomez
Client Accounting Services Lead I
Milen Gomez has over six years of experience in accounting for US and Hong Kong entities. She specializes in taxes, payroll processing, and improving accounting efficiency. In her free time, Milen loves spending time with her family, reading, and traveling to new destinations.
Alyssa Bituin
Client Accounting Services Lead I
Alyssa Bituin
Client Accounting Services Lead I
Alyssa is a skilled accounting and tax professional with over 5 years of experience in managing complex financial operations. She specializes in tax preparation, filing, and compliance, ensuring accuracy and adherence to regulations. With expertise in full-cycle accounting, Alyssa manages accounts payable, receivable, payroll, and financial reporting, driving efficiency and maintaining financial integrity. Her attention to detail and ability to streamline processes contribute significantly to operational success.
Outside of her professional work, Alyssa enjoys exploring her creative side through portrait drawing, painting, and watching films.
Alexis Presco
Client Accounting Services Specialist I
Alexis Presco
Client Accounting Services Specialist I
Alexis holds both a Bachelor of Science in Accounting Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. Last year, she completed her Professional Education and successfully passed the teacher licensure exam. Although her background includes teaching, Alexis finds genuine fulfillment in accounting work—a field she has specialized in for over three years, with strong experience in both accounting and bookkeeping.
Outside of work, Alexis is a passionate K-pop fan and loves attending concerts. She also enjoys spending time with her niece and describes herself as outgoing and sociable—always happy to connect with others anytime, anywhere!
Gianne Razon
Client Accounting Services Specialist I
Gianne Razon
Client Accounting Services Specialist I
Gianne is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a US Certified Management Accountant (CMA) with five years of experience in audit and accounting. She began her career as an audit associate at the Big 4 Firms collaborating with clients in manufacturing, IT services, and real estate. Gianne then transitioned to an accounting role and took on the role of an accounts payable supervisor. In accounts payable, she managed reports, reconciliations, tax filings, and processed improvements.
Outside of work, Gianne loves traveling and exploring new places and cultures. She also enjoys trying out different coffee shops, discovering new brews, and playing with her dogs during her free time.
Chenille Barce
Client Accounting Services Specialist I
Chenille Barce
Client Accounting Services Specialist I
Chenille holds a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy degree and has been practicing in the field for over six years. Her experience and dedication make her a reliable asset in maintaining the financial integrity of the organization. She specializes in recording transactions, performing monthly reconciliations, and preparing and reviewing financial statement reports. With her deep familiarity of different accounting software, she ensures accuracy and efficiency in managing the firm’s financial data.
Outside of work, Chenille enjoys escaping the hustle of city life to embrace the fresh air of her home province, spending quality time with family and friends. A nature lover at heart, she finds joy in beach outings and scenic trips. In her leisure time, she indulges in reading, watching series and movies, and crocheting creative projects.
Mhea Pascual
Client Accounting Services Specialist I
Mhea Pascual
Client Accounting Services Specialist I
Mhea obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Accountancy and brings over seven years of experience in accounting across various industries. Mhea’s expertise encompasses bookkeeping, financial reporting and account reconciliation enabling business to maintain accurate and compliant financial records.
Mhea is a huge anime fan outside of work, and her favorite is Naruto. Additionally, Mhea enjoys traveling and makes it a point to take at least one vacation annually.
#Compliance
Melissa Walters
Client Relations Specialist
Melissa Walters
Client Relations Specialist
Melissa Walters joined 420 CPA in 2018 and focuses on client relations, tax notices, and project management. With a passion for seeing projects through to completion, she ensures clients are satisfied with the results. Outside of work, Melissa loves hiking, traveling, and spending time with her family.
Kam Fouladian
Tax & Compliance Supervisor
Kam Fouladian
Tax & Compliance Supervisor
Kambiz Fouladian is a Tax Supervisor with over 15 years of experience in the tax field, specializing in business and partnership taxation. He has extensive expertise in compliance, planning, multi-state reporting, and entity structuring. Over the course of his career in public accounting, Kambiz has worked with a diverse range of clients including real estate investors, professional service firms, closely held businesses, and organizations in the healthcare industry. His background in both public accounting and private companies gives him a well-rounded perspective on business operations and industry-specific tax considerations. Kambiz holds a Bachelor's degree in accounting and is known for his analytical approach, problem-solving mindset, and meticulous attention to detail. He is committed to delivering accurate, timely, and strategic tax solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. Outside of work, Kambiz enjoys spending quality time with his family. Whether it's setting up camp under the stars or swimming on a sunny day, he values outdoor adventures and creating lasting family memories. These moments of connection and relaxation help bring balance and joy to his busy professional life.
Rhonda Ryckman
CPA
Rhonda Ryckman
CPA
Roni Ryckman began in her career in the “Big 4” working at KMPG Peat Marwick. She worked her way through college as a bookkeeper while also learning Tax Preparation. After a couple years, Roni transitioned into private practice as it became more fulfilling. Working with small/medium size businesses became Roni’s passion as she became skilled at best practices, workflow and set-up and training bookkeeping staff. Roni graduated from San Diego State University and enjoyed the community so much she decided to establish San Diego as her home base with her family. She has specialized in the construction industry for most of her 2 decades of practice but has branched out into other areas as well following the demands of other industries. She loves a challenge and has never met a set of books she could not “fix”. Roni loves to travel with her children, most often abroad including Italy where her family originated. She was a musician long before an accountant and loves to write and perform music whenever time allows.
#Tax
Melissa Walters
Client Relations Specialist
Melissa Walters
Client Relations Specialist
Melissa Walters joined 420 CPA in 2018 and focuses on client relations, tax notices, and project management. With a passion for seeing projects through to completion, she ensures clients are satisfied with the results. Outside of work, Melissa loves hiking, traveling, and spending time with her family.
Monica Villanueva
Tax Administration Lead I
Monica Villanueva
Tax Administration Lead I
Monica Villanueva is a Certified Financial Market Professional (CFMP) and Certified Bookkeeper (MICB) with extensive experience in accounting and tax compliance for international businesses. She is currently handling tax data collection and supports our clients with accounting services needed before finalizing the tax returns. Monica enjoys watching movies, travelling, and trying adventurous activities in her free time.
Clarissa Maglalang
Tax Administration
Clarissa Maglalang
Tax Administration
Clarissa Maglalang is an experienced Client Accounting Services Specialist and US Tax Accountant with a solid background in various sectors, including government, public, and private entities. With a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, Clarissa brings over seven years of professional experience to her role, specializing in US accounting, bookkeeping, and taxation for the past four years. Her extensive knowledge and expertise in accounting and taxation, combined with her diverse work experience, make her a valuable asset to her clients.
Outside of work, Clarissa is passionate about maintaining a balanced lifestyle. She enjoys traveling, visiting beaches, hiking, and nature tripping, allowing her to recharge and connect with nature. Clarissa's dedication to both her profession and personal growth ensures she continues to thrive, offering exceptional services to clients while maintaining a healthy, well-rounded life
John Segawa
Tax Administration
John Segawa
Tax Administration
John brings over three years of experience as an Accounting Specialist at a local private firm, two years as an Accounting Trainer, and more than two years of combined experience as a Tax Preparer. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, expected to graduate in May 2025.
Passionate about travel, John hopes to one day call Japan his permanent home—drawn to its culture, safety, and lifestyle. A true coffee enthusiast, he finds joy and relaxation in playing volleyball and badminton, and enjoys exploring new sports whenever he can.Outside of work, Clarissa is passionate about maintaining a balanced lifestyle. She enjoys traveling, visiting beaches, hiking, and nature tripping, allowing her to recharge and connect with nature. Clarissa's dedication to both her profession and personal growth ensures she continues to thrive, offering exceptional services to clients while maintaining a healthy, well-rounded life
Kate Bernabe
Tax Administration
Kate Bernabe
Tax Administration
With a bachelor's degree in Accountancy from the Philippines, Kate brings over six years of experience in end-to-end bookkeeping and accounting, supporting clients across the U.S., Australia, and the Philippines. She is also certified in various accounting software.
Outside of work, she enjoys tending to her succulent garden, watching movies, and diving into books on her Kindle.
#Human Resources & Administration
Tina Suarez
HR Manager
Tina Suarez
HR Manager
Tina Suarez has over 25 years of experience as a Human Resource Manager, specializing in strategic HR planning, payroll, compliance, and employee relations. She excels in developing HR policies and compensation programs for California-based and multi-state businesses. In her free time, Tina enjoys camping at the beach with her family and friends.
Mary Ann Canlapan
CAS & Tax Administration Lead I
Mary Ann Canlapan
CAS & Tax Administration Lead I
Mary Ann Canlapan, CPA, has nearly 10 years of experience in accounting, serving clients from Australia, the US, and the Philippines. With her extensive skills, she brings high-quality service to Verdant Strategies clients. Outside work, Mary Ann enjoys recording music, playing mobile games, and watching documentaries.
Kate Bernabe
Administration Assistant
Kate Bernabe
Administration Assistant
With a bachelor's degree in Accountancy from the Philippines, Kate brings over six years of experience in end-to-end bookkeeping and accounting, supporting clients across the U.S., Australia, and the Philippines. She is also certified in various accounting software.
Outside of work, she enjoys tending to her succulent garden, watching movies, and diving into books on her Kindle.
Zelle Conopio
Tax Administrative Assistant & Accounts Receivable
Zelle Conopio
Tax Administrative Assistant & Accounts Receivable
Zelle has over 10 years of experience in Accounts Receivable, Collections, Customer Care Consultancy, Invoicing, and Billing, Zelle is a results-driven AR Specialist recognized for her efficiency and customer-focused approach. She is committed to maintaining strong client relationships and ensuring seamless financial operations.
Outside of work, she enjoys quality time with family and friends, traveling and exploring Korean culture, inspired by her appreciation for BTS.
.
#Internal Accounting
Anam Punjwani
Controller
Anam Punjwani
Controller
Anam is an Accounting and Finance professional with over 12 years of experience leading financial operations and driving strategic business decisions. With a strong background in financial reporting, budgeting, and process improvement, Anam has consistently helped organizations optimize performance and align finance with long-term goals. She has had the pleasure of living in Canada and working with Canadian industries, giving her valuable cross-border experience and a deep understanding of both U.S. and Canadian financial landscapes.
Anam also brings a global perspective through her experience managing and collaborating with offshore teams, and is passionate about mentoring emerging talent and building strong, high-performing finance teams across borders.
Outside of work, Anam is a proud mother of two daughters and enjoys spending time with family, exploring new places, and experimenting new recipes. She also loves discovering AI tools to support her kids’ learning and creativity. Anam is known for her organizational skills, her sweet tooth, and her warm, team-oriented approach to leadership.
Anna San Pedro
Accounts Receivable
Anna San Pedro
Accounts Receivable
Anna brings over 5 years of comprehensive accounting experience, having worked with a diverse range of businesses across the United States. Her expertise spans across various industries, making her a versatile asset in the field. Outside of work, Anna is passionate about traveling, staying active through workouts and sports, and unwinding with a good movie.
Zelle Conopio
Tax Administrative Assistant & Accounts Receivable
Zelle Conopio
Tax Administrative Assistant & Accounts Receivable
Zelle has over 10 years of experience in Accounts Receivable, Collections, Customer Care Consultancy, Invoicing, and Billing, Zelle is a results-driven AR Specialist recognized for her efficiency and customer-focused approach. She is committed to maintaining strong client relationships and ensuring seamless financial operations.
Outside of work, she enjoys quality time with family and friends, traveling and exploring Korean culture, inspired by her appreciation for BTS.
Join Us in This
Exciting New Chapter
We are more than accountants; we are your partners in growth. At Verdant Strategies, we combine deep industry knowledge with a forward-thinking approach to guide you through every stage of your business journey.
Together, let’s cultivate success in the cannabis industry. Thank you for your continued trust and support. We look forward to achieving new heights together.
Rachel Wright
Founder & CEO
Verdant Strategies
Our Evolution
From 420 CPA
to Verdant Strategies
Legacy of Excellence
420 CPA, founded in 2009, has been a pioneering force in cannabis accounting. Over the years, it has grown to be known for its innovative solutions and deep industry knowledge.
A New Chapter
As the cannabis industry evolved, so did we. Verdant Strategies emerged from the legacy of 420 CPA, expanding our services to offer comprehensive financial management, including fractional CFO support and strategic consulting.
Championing Industry Leaders
Showcasing our commitment to the cannabis industry by partnering with organizations that lead innovation, advocate for progress, and drive meaningful change across the sector.
Our Trusted Advisors
Guiding Your Success with Expertise and Precision
Jamie Pearson
Global Expansion Advisor
Jamie Pearson
Global Expansion Advisor
Jamie Pearson is an award-winning keynote speaker, writer, accredited investor, board member, and highly respected leader in the cannabis industry. Jamie’s operational success led her to win the International Cannabis Awards 2025 International Woman of the Year, 2024 MJ BizCon Women in Leadership award, to be coined “Wonder Woman” in the 2023 Women of Influence issue of Cannabis Now Magazine and twice, one of the most influential women in cannabis by High Times (2019,2021). Jamie has been a prosperous investor in global real estate on three continents. She speaks German and has split her time between the US and the EU for over 25 years. She is generous with her time and knowledge and currently sits on the advisory boards of Hello Again (USA), Dope Drinks (South Africa), Marley One (Jamaica), and Unlock Healthcare (Israel).
Jamie founded and leads The New Holland Group (NHG), a global consulting firm serving clients with international business development & strategy, cross-border IP protection, capital raising, and celebrity partnerships. NHG’s clients include governments, global brands, manufacturers, distributors, dispensary chains, MSOs & MCOs (multi-country organizations).
Before NHG, Jamie spent seven years, including three as the President & CEO, of Bhang Inc. one of the world’s most-awarded infused edible brands, famous for its infused chocolate bars. She executed the global expansion plan, ran the capital markets division, and was the face of the brand – catapulting Bhang from a California favorite to a multi-national phenomenon. When Jamie exited Bhang, the brand was being distributed in 7 US states and 10 countries through licensing deals with the likes of Trulieve, Indiva and Origin House (now Cresco). Jamie served as the Vice Chairman of Bhang’s Board and was a member of the audit committee.
Hirsh Jain
Market Intelligence Advisor
Hirsh Jain
Market Intelligence Advisor
Hirsh Jain is the Founder of Ananda Strategy, a business advisory firm that works with leading cannabis brands, retailers, ancillary businesses and investment funds in the United States and Canada. Hirsh serves as Vice Chair of the Cannabis Chamber of Commerce, an international trade organization that promotes the interests and supports the growth of legal cannabis businesses. Hirsh was previously on the Board of Directors of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) in California, which for fifty years has been working to reform California's cannabis laws. Prior to working in cannabis, Hirsh was the Global Policy Lead at Airbnb in San Francisco. Before that, he worked as an Engagement Manager at McKinsey & Company in New York City. Hirsh has a B.A. in Philosophy from UC Berkeley, and a J.D. from Harvard Law School.
Heidi Whitman
Global Strategist Advisor
Heidi Whitman
Global Strategist Advisor
Heidi Whitman is a UK-based Global Strategist and Chairwoman of Cannabis Society; working with several companies across the international cannabis industry. With focus on ethical growth and ecosystem development, Heidi leverages her extensive, curated network to support companies committed to advancing plant-based solutions and setting new standards in patient and consumer centric care.
Andrew Gradman
Legal Tax Advisor
Andrew Gradman
Legal Tax Advisor
Andrew Gradman is a highly regarded tax attorney specializing in cannabis taxation, M&A, and international transactions. As a trusted advisor to Verdant Strategies clients, he delivers insightful tax strategies to navigate complex legal landscapes. Andrew’s thought leadership includes co-authored articles with Rachel Wright on cannabis taxation.
Dina Nagib
Cannabis Retail Advisor
Dina Nagib
Cannabis Retail Advisor
Dina has 15 years of experience from the biotech industry where she focused on process optimization, quality control, inventory management and software development. Since coming to cannabis in 2019, she’s worked with dispensaries on data handling, software implementation and process improvements. Dina’s focus with her clients is utilizing the right technology and implementing good data processes to grow the business while operating with grace and a passion for the plant.
Sasha Mamula-Elkins
MBA, MSP, SHRM-CP
Sasha Mamula-Elkins
MBA, MSP, SHRM-CP
With 13+ years of consulting experience and a deep focus on HR, Sasha combines her business acumen and psychological insights to tackle complex workforce challenges. As a certified HR professional and an accomplished entrepreneur, she bridges practical solutions with strategic vision to drive sustainable growth for clients.
Simon Menkes
CPA
Simon Menkes
CPA
Simon Menkes brings over two decades of accounting expertise across diverse industries, specializing in cannabis, technology, real estate, and finance. A Princeton graduate and licensed CPA in California, Simon combines technical acumen with strategic foresight to empower businesses in achieving their financial goals.
Our Services
Professional Financial Partner for Every Stage of Your Business Journey
What Our Clients Say
True Professionals
Rachel and her team at Verdant Strategies are true professionals. Their deep understanding of cannabis-specific regulations and proactive approach to financial management have been game-changers for our business. Highly recommended!
Confidential
COO
We trust their team completely
Working with Verdant Strategies has transformed our financial operations. Their CFO services provided us with strategic insights that have driven our growth and improved our profitability. We trust their team completely.
Confidential
Founder
An invaluable partner
Verdant Strategies has been an invaluable partner in navigating the financial complexities of the cannabis industry. Their expertise in tax planning and compliance has saved us significant time and money. We couldn't be more pleased with their service!
Confidential
Corporate Attorney
Industry Insights
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