Michael McCullough, President

Registered Tax Preparer and Financial Advisor
Michael McCullough Michael is knowledgeable in a variety of financial topics, including investment planning, retirement planning, tax planning and tax preparation. With over 12 years of experience in financial advisory services, he recognized the need to complement his advisory services with tax expertise and in February 2020, he partnered with Anthony Azavedo, acquiring his firm to establish McCullough Financial.

 

He is dedicated to helping clients plan for the future and achieve their financial goals.
Michael began his Investment Advisory career at Prudential Financial, Inc., earning recognition as "Rookie of the Year" in 2009 and consistently ranking among the top performers nationally. His exceptional performance qualified him for Prudential's "Entrepreneur of the Year" award for his leadership in practice building, marked by opening a private office, assembling a team, and investing in infrastructure, culminating in a remarkable 250% year-over-year revenue increase. His background in establishing and nurturing relationships with investors and companies, from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, seamlessly translated into the financial services sector. His expertise and leadership have been instrumental in the growth and success of McCullough Financial.

Michael holds Series 6, 7, 63, and 65 licenses and Insurance and CTEC licenses.

Anthony Azavedo

Accounting Advisor

Anthony brings extensive experience in public accounting dating back to the 1980s. He has continued and strengthened client relations for over 40 years and continues to bring in positive feedback and build a strong rapport with his clients. Specializing in tax planning, tax preparation, accounting, and payroll solutions, Anthony harnesses his expertise to realize client goals. He has extensive knowledge of accounting principles and regulations, ensuring compliance with relevant standards.

Chad Cottingim

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Chad brings over two decades of financial leadership and accounting experience to McCullough Financial. His background spans public accounting and senior finance roles at leading global companies, including PriceSmart, Michael Kors, PepsiCo, and Red Bull North America. 

 

Chad’s expertise includes accounting, financial planning and analysis, inventory and margin management, and SOX compliance. He has a proven track record of supporting executive leadership with clear, actionable insights and thoughtful strategic guidance. Known for his proactive and adaptable approach, Chad values building strong relationships with both clients and colleagues. 

 

Chad holds a Master’s in Professional Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Clemson University and is a Certified Public Accountant. He is also a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants. 

Maithilee Purandare

Registered Tax Preparer and Accounting Assistant
Maithilee, known as May, is a highly valuable member of our team and plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of our firm. Her exceptional communication skills and attention to detail make her an asset to our organization. In addition to her client-facing responsibilities, May earned her Accounting Certification and a CTEC Registration which allows her to assist with tax preparation ensuring that our clients' financial needs are met with the utmost accuracy and efficiency. Her ability to multitask and prioritize tasks allows us to operate seamlessly, providing our clients with the highest level of service.

Sissy Wang

Bookkeeper Registered Tax Preparer
Sissy serves as the diligent accounting assistant in our office and has been helping businesses manage their finances for over 20 years. She's an expert in payroll processing, bookkeeping, and preparing financial statements.

Sissy takes the stress out of managing financial data for multiple companies, ensuring compliance by maintaining accurate records of accounts payable and receivable, payroll, and daily financial entries and reconciliations. With the responsibility, organization, and a positive demeanor Sissy exudes, you can trust that your financials are in good hands with her on your team.

Allie Wilhelm

Registered Tax Preparer, Insurance Agent and Accounting Assistant

Allie is an invaluable member of our team and the go-to resource for a wide range of needs. She manages client relationships and oversees key projects to ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently. With her Life, Accident & Health insurance license and CTEC certification, Allie is also equipped to assist clients with their insurance needs and tax preparation. Her versatility and dedication play a vital role in our firm’s continued success.

Marc Albert

Registered Tax Preparer and Accounting Assistant
Marc brings a diverse background in finance, education, and tax preparation to McCullough Financial. With a degree in Business Economics with an emphasis in Accounting from UCSB, he began his career in commercial banking before transitioning into wholesale lending. Marc’s professional journey includes roles as a Credit Analyst in Mid-Market Commercial Lending at Commercial Bank and as a Wholesale Loan Representative at JP Morgan Chase. His analytical skills, attention to detail, and dedication to client success make him a valuable asset as a certified tax preparer to the McCullough Financial team.

Hans Krieswirth

Executive Assistant

With 8+ years of professional office experience in fast-paced environments, Hans utilizes the utmost amount of attention when it comes to ensuring clients of McCullough Financial are cared for and kept up to date regarding their requests. Whether it be scheduling appointments for our clients - both returning and new - to making sure all client-submitted paperwork is submitted to our tax professionals, Hans helps guarantee all customer concerns are addressed in an efficient and timely manner.