Best and Brightest: Shelby Perry-Lipe

Shelby Perry-Lipe

Tax Director

Mauldin & Jenkins

Greenville

30

Born and raised in the Upstate, I began my career in Greenville in 2019 after earning my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accountancy from the University of South Carolina. I worked for a regional firm before transitioning to Bradshaw, Gordon, and Clinkscales where I advanced from tax senior associate to tax manager. Following a successful few years with BGC, the firm merged with Mauldin & Jenkins, where I was recently promoted to tax director. As a tax director, I oversee a diverse book of business focused on tax planning and compliance for pass-through entities, individuals, trusts, and corporations. In addition to client service, I supervise our tax manager group and lead office-wide initiatives to ensure our team has the tools and support needed to excel. Outside of the office, I have served several local boards dedicated to uplifting residents of Greenville from all walks of life. My long-term goal is to continue serving as a steward to both the community and the land that makes Greenville a great place to live.

Favorite Quote and Why: ”The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams” – Eleanor Roosevelt. As a kid, I didn’t go to sleep at night dreaming of becoming the world's best accountant. Instead, I dreamed of gaining an education and a career that would allow me to support myself and give back wherever I could. Dreams don’t have to look like winning the Super Bowl or becoming the richest person in the world. They can be simple, plain, and unassuming. This quote reminds me that if you commit to pursuing your dreams and never lose sight of them, the future is yours to mold into everything you ever wanted.

Definition of a Successful Leader: A successful leader is someone who not only understands the goals of the organization, but also the personal goals of their colleagues and team. Everyone has something they are working toward or a skill they are trying to develop. By understanding how to help each individual achieve their specific goals while simultaneously moving the organization forward, the ideal leader creates a situation where everyone wins.

Advice to 18-Year-Old Self: My advice to my 18-year-old self would be: Don’t forget to enjoy it. It is easy to get caught up in the stress and anxiety of life, but take a second to remember that it is everyone’s first time living. Give yourself and those around you a little grace. Take a deep breath, smile, and just enjoy the journey.