David J. Merlo, CPA, Principal

David was raised here on the Central Coast. After he graduated with a Bachelor of Accountancy degree from the University of San Diego he joined the tax department with PriceWaterhouseCoopers. Desiring to be closer to family and to raise a family of his own, David and his wife moved back to the Central Coast where he joined GBP&B in 2003. David became a principal of the firm in 2008 and services clients in taxation; specializing in construction, personal service companies, manufacturing, international businesses and multi-state corporations. He may be contacted at either the Santa Maria or San Luis Obispo locations. David is a member of AICPA, CalCPA, Santa Maria Rotary and is an active board member for the San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum.

Away From the Office:
 David enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, relaxing at the lake, and playing soccer.

 He is an avid listener of sports talk radio, and is a fan of Jimmy Buffet, the San Diego Chargers, USC football and the Los Angeles Lakers.

 David aspires to live by the words of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow as he stated that, “The talent of success is nothing more than doing what you can do, well.”

Professional Influences, Ideas and Advice:
 David enjoys the team atmosphere at GBP&B, and especially appreciates the widespread accounting expertise that is contributed by all members of the firm.

 David especially enjoys consulting with his clients on a myriad of business issues. Believing that accounting can be utilized regardless of career path, David recommends that business majors consider accounting for their area of emphasis as this knowledge will prove invaluable to future business leaders.

 David has a special appreciation for his clients’ individual needs and enjoys fostering personal relationships with them while learning the nuances of their business.