BIO
Ruth Cantu is a seasoned tax professional with over 12 years of experience in public accounting serving HNWI Trusts and Estates, along with public and private companies. Upon moving to Los Angeles in 2004, Ruth secured her first large public industry opportunity with Herbalife International Inc. Ruth is an accomplished finance and operations executive known for driving strategic growth and developing customized solutions for internal and external clients. Ruth delivers high-quality financial, administrative, and operational results through streamlined operations, processes, and team structures.
Ruth serves as the Tax Director at Gerber Kawasaki, leading accounting and tax compliance and consulting engagements for high-net-worth individuals, partnerships, multinational corporations, fiduciary, and non-profit organizations. Her expertise spans federal and multinational tax planning, compliance, and reporting. She excels in navigating complex tax regulations, optimizing tax positions, and providing strategic tax advice. Ruth's deep understanding of tax law, regulations, and general information reporting, with an emphasis on common reporting standards, allows her to deliver tailored solutions aligned with clients' financial goals.
Before joining Gerber Kawasaki, Ruth held pivotal roles at Deloitte and Ernst & Young in Houston, Texas. In 2004, Ruth moved with her two children to Redondo Beach, California, where she has served as an executive management professional and advisor to multinational companies like Honda Finance Inc, Marcus & Millichap Real Estate Services, 99 Cents Only Stores, American Homes 4 Rent, and Herbalife. She managed tax accounting, compliance, cross-border transactions, research, strategic tax planning, and analysis for these companies while mentoring junior staff and managing client relationships.
Ruth holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Texas @ Austin and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Texas, awaiting reciprocity with the California Board of Accountants (CBA). She is an active member of the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and is currently working towards her Certification as a Financial Officer from Kester and Byrnes Columbia Business School, expected to be completed by August 2025. Additionally, Ruth also holds a certification in Women in Leadership from Syracuse University and a Life Insurance license in California.
Ruth is dedicated to giving back to the community, volunteering her time and expertise to various non-profit organizations by providing pro bono tax services and financial education. She currently serves as the VP of Memberships for the Board of Financial Executives International – LA Chapter. Ruth is also a member of C-Sweet – LA Chapter and a member of the City Club of Los Angeles.
Ruth is a single mom of two young adult children: Jonathan, a 33-year-old biotech engineer and avid surfer living in Torrance, California, and Angela, a 30-year-old medical student at the University of Texas in McAllen and first place stunt cheerleader for the Cardinals @ University of Louisville. Ruth is also a doggie Glama to two Great Danes and an emotional support Boston Terrier. Ruth enjoys sports and other outdoor activities: golfing, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking, wine tasting, cooking, and traveling. She is driven by customer satisfaction, leading and mentoring staff, and displays true grit in getting the job done while leading with empathy and compassion.
CA Insurance License # 4075368
TX CPA License # 052706
CA CPA License # To be assigned October 2024 after PETH exam.