
Melissa Werner
Audit Director at Aprio | I help construction, waste management, consumer products, tech, and manufacturing and distribution companies reduce risk, boost profitability and secure future growth.
Aprio, LLP
Aprio Advisory Group, LLC


Who I work with
My clients include public and private construction, waste management, consumer products, technology, and manufacturing and distribution companies, as well as high-net-worth individuals. I work with top executives, boards of directors and other key stakeholders to reduce risk exposure in the market, improve profit margins and attain long-term growth.
My specialty
In addition to providing audit, accounting and assurance experience, I specialize in strategic planning and strive to provide my clients with deeper insight into their businesses. I leverage my technical knowledge and knowledge to keep clients informed about financial reporting issues, accounting disclosures and potential tax law changes that could impact their bottom line. What’s more, I provide my clients with guidance on accounting policies and procedures to improve operational effectiveness and efficiencies across their organizations.

Results I have delivered
- Regularly identify accruals and overstated assets, typically resulting in $50,000–$2.5 million in financial-statement adjustments.
- Helped a client increase their gross profit percentage by 1–5 points, after taking a closer look at their pricing and direct costs and identifying savings opportunities.
- Helped a client cut their general & administrative expenses, reducing costs from 1%–10%.
Unique things about me
I grew up in Peru and came to the US when I was 17 years old. I have also competed in two half-marathons, as well as several 5Ks and 10Ks. The event I am most proud of is a half-marathon I ran through Central Park in New York City. Crossing the finish line with my marathon teammates waiting for me is a moment I will always remember.


When I am not at work
You can find me listening to music or spending time at the beach. As a family, we love to travel to warm-weather destinations. We went to Maui on our last vacation, and it was spectacular!
People say I am

Collaborative, knowledgeable, reliable, results-oriented, proactive and conscientious.

Affiliations
I earned my Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Master of Science (M.S.) in Accounting from Kean University. I am also a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the Wisconsin Institute of CPAs (WICPA) and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA). My other community and professional affiliations include:
- Treasurer, FTO Heritage Elementary School (Waunakee, WI)
- Catechist of Faith Formation, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church
- Board Member, Aprio Foundation
- Co-chair, Aprio Foundation Programs Committee