A Different Kind of CPA Firm
Founded in 1981, Bell & Company is an employee-owned CPA and advisory firm serving businesses and individuals across Arkansas and surrounding states. Through offices in North Little Rock, Conway, and Harrison, our team provides tax, audit, accounting, and advisory services built around long-term relationships, responsive service, and practical guidance.
Whether working with transportation companies, family-owned businesses, nonprofits, healthcare organizations, or individuals, we focus on understanding each client’s goals and helping them plan confidently for the future.
Relationship-Driven Accounting, Tax, Audit, and Advisory Services
Firm Snapshot
FOUNDED IN 1981
EMPLOYEE-OWNED SINCE
2026
OFFICES
North Little Rock | Conway | Harrison
Who We Are
Built on Relationships. Focused on the Future.
Bell & Company began in 1981 when Richard and Lee Bell opened a small accounting practice in North Little Rock. More than four decades later, we've grown into a regional CPA and advisory firm recognized by INSIDE Public Accounting as one of the nation's Top 500 firms for three consecutive years, while staying true to the personal service and accessibility that built our reputation.
Today, we're 100% employee-owned, and that isn't just part of our story. It shapes how we think. Our people have a direct stake in the firm's future, so we're focused on building relationships that last, not chasing the next billable hour. It's why many of our clients have worked with the same trusted advisors for 10, 20, even 30 years.
We're not trying to be the biggest accounting firm. We're building one that's still here, still independent, and still serving clients decades from now. Employee ownership allows us to invest in our people, develop future leaders, and make decisions with the long term in mind. It keeps us independent, strengthens the communities we serve, and helps ensure the firm our clients rely on today will be here for the next generation.
Our experience runs deep where clients need it most. From transportation and logistics to IRS representation, trust and estate planning, and comprehensive tax, audit, accounting, and advisory services, we help clients navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and plan for what's next.
Whether you're just getting started or planning for the next generation, we're here to build a relationship that lasts, providing the guidance, perspective, and continuity you need every step of the way.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Richard Bell, CPA, JD, CVA
Chairman Emeritus
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Richard Bell, CPA, JD is the Founder and CEO of Bell & Company, a respected regional accounting firm with more than four decades of service. Known for his integrity, leadership, and commitment to people, Richard has built a firm grounded in personalized service and long-term relationships.
After earning undergraduate degrees in Accounting and Law from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Richard began his career in public accounting and industry before founding Bell & Company in 1981 with his wife, Lee. Under his leadership, the firm has grown steadily and now serves clients across a wide range of industries throughout Arkansas and beyond.
Richard specializes in tax, business, and estate consulting. He is especially passionate about mentorship and education, believing strongly in investing in the next generation of accounting and business professionals.
A longtime advocate for higher education and professional development, Richard has served as an adjunct professor at the University of Central Arkansas, teaching Business Law for Entrepreneurs. His philanthropic efforts focus heavily on strengthening the accounting talent pipeline. He has endowed scholarships at the University of Central Arkansas and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, supporting students pursuing careers in accounting and law. Through scholarships, guest lectures, internships, and full-time hiring, Richard has played a meaningful role in developing future CPAs across the state.
In recognition of his professional and community impact, Richard has received numerous honors, including the 2020 Arkansas Business Lifetime Achievement Award in Accounting and the 2025 Jerry B. Adams Excellence in Philanthropy Award, which recognizes his sustained commitment to charitable giving, education, and community leadership.
Richard currently serves a second term on the Arkansas State Board of Accountancy, having been appointed by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. He also serves on the Legislative Support Committee for the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), contributing to discussions that shape the future of the CPA profession.
Richard has been inducted as an honorary member of Beta Alpha Psi’s Theta Lambda chapter and remains a strong supporter of the organization at both UCA. His continued involvement reflects his belief that strong firms are built by investing in people, education, and community.
Richard and Lee are proud grandparents to Luna and Marlee. As Founder and CEO, Richard continues to serve as a mentor and guiding presence at Bell & Company, ensuring the firm’s values, culture, and commitment to service remain strong well into the future.
Kelly Phillips, CPA
Partner | Chief Operations Officer
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Kelly joined Bell & Company in 2009, after working for a regional firm in Alabama for 10 years. However, her professional career started when she was just a teenager, assisting her aunt during school breaks manually typing W2s and heading up green ledger books. She found the broader profession intriguing and developed an enthusiasm for accounting.
Kelly oversees the Tax Department and is a highly respected co-worker, manager, and friend to all. She enjoys working with clients at all levels and capacities, and makes herself a part of their team of experts.
In recognition of her professional impact and leadership, Kelly was named a 2025 AMP Achiever in Their 40s, honoring professionals who are making a meaningful difference in their organizations and communities. Kelly claims that her proudest accomplishment to date is being the first of the next wave of new Shareholders at Bell & Company.
She finds the time to not only dedicate countless hours to her clients, five children and community, and is also an avid reader and state fair ribbon-winning paper crafter.
Nell Sterling, CPA
Partner
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Nell joined Bell & Company in 1986, and has been practicing with her brother, Richard Bell, ever since. Every client that has ever worked with Nell knows her passion for client service runs deep – Nell goes to battle for her clients, team members, and family. That passion and determination are unparalleled when it comes to resolving IRS and State tax matters, as she has created a niche within the firm and become an expert at navigating the complexities of tax laws and government agencies with the greatest of respect and finesse, all while protecting her clients from overreach or abuse.
When Nell became a CPA, there were not many women in the profession. However, one of her proudest accomplishments is that over the years, she has encouraged the firm to recognize the valuable perspective offered by women in accounting, and has worked to implement policies to accommodate their contributions that allow them to succeed without having to conform to a traditional career path. Nell strives to make the workplace one that is encouraging, flexible and open to other women, as well as those that want a family and career in public accounting.
Nell and her husband, Mike, love to travel in their RV and spend time with their son and his family. Nell also loves her horses and dogs, but most of all she loves chasing after her grandson.
Pancho Espejo, CPA, CVA
Partner | Chief Financial Officer
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Pancho became a Shareholder of Bell & Company in 2024, but his history with the firm began in 1998. He is always on the forefront of tax law changes and is arguably one the most technical tax technicians in the industry. He currently manages the tax section of the transportation division of Bell & Company, identifying issues and implementing solutions for transportation clients and the unique tax situations they encounter in their worldwide business model.
Jeff Lovelady, CPA
Partner | President
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Jeff has been part of the core of Bell & Company since 1992 and provides not only expert consulting to his transportation industry clients, but also manages the firm’s IT Department as well as the A&A Department. With decades of experience, Jeff is instrumental in supporting clients, particularly in the transportation industry, where he has developed a deep niche expertise. He has authored articles for publications like Arkansas Trucking Magazine and Arkansas Business’s Transportation edition.
Jeff can look at a set of financial statements and analyze it quickly, identifying strengths and weaknesses and offer strategies to the client based on their goals. Jeff sees through the numbers and works with his clients to continually minimize their tax burden while improving their cash flow.
In his spare time, Jeff loves the outdoors and is dedicated member of his church. He has a vast Lego collection, enjoys gardening, cooking, and is looking forward to sharing all of these hobbies with his grandson.
Nadine Grady, CPA
Partner | Director of Quality Control
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Nadine has been with Bell & Company since 2007 and became a Shareholder in 2024. Nadine specializes in attest work, overseeing attest-related projects, training staff, researching and maintaining compliance with standards, and overseeing the firm’s peer review and quality control processes. She also enjoys helping clients with their tax needs and any accounting issues that arise. Nadine enjoys working on a variety of client industries, including trucking and contractors.
Nadine believes there is some enjoyment to be found in all tasks, and she strives to give excellent service. Nadine loves a new challenge and finds satisfaction in solving problems, finding answers, and learning something new.
Nadine has one son, and likes to spend free time working puzzles, crocheting, exploring good recipes, watching movies, and being outside.
Abby Freeman, CPA
Partner | Controller / Treasurer
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Abby joined Bell & Company straight out of college in 2014 and became a Shareholder in 2024. Her passion for training and mentoring the next generation of CPAs is unwavering. Abby stumbled upon her love for accounting accidentally by taking an “easy computerized” course in high school; her dedication to the profession comes across every day as Abby works with clients, team members, and business colleagues.
Abby manages the Conway office. She is well versed in tax planning, compliance, and advisory services to clients in many industries, ranging from a small business start-up in Conway to transportation companies that cross the globe, and from a construction company to a family who wants to invest in rental properties - she treats each client with the utmost professional respect as she strives to help them understand their financial and tax situations.
In her free time, Abby loves putting together puzzles and LEGO projects with her husband and spending time with their child.
Robert Holt, CPA
Principal
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Robert is no stranger to the world of public accounting in Arkansas, Harrison and its surrounding communities in particular. With the merger of Holt & Hudson, CPAs with Bell & Company in 2023, Robert continues to be the anchor to the Harrison team members, clients and his community.
Robert is a man of honor and integrity, and strives to always be honest with his clients, team members and colleagues no matter the circumstances. His technical abilities, utilized while working with small businesses from a variety of industries, public governmental utility services, and individuals while navigating the complexities of the tax code are a testament to his professionalism and integrity. Robert is a trusted advisor and the Bell & Company family is honored to have him be a part of the firm’s journey.
Robert and his wife, Katie, have two children, two grandsons, and two dogs - all of whom they love and treasure very much.
Richelle Eoff, CPA
Chief Technology Officer
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Richelle has been with Bell & Company since 2007. She has worked in many areas of the firm over the years, but her true talents and passion came to life once she became Manager of the firm’s IT department. Richelle keeps the firm and its staff operating with her specialized knowledge of how accounting and IT come together. She still serves clients as well as assists with the firm’s intern program, training young accountants on software and technical skills to help them succeed.
Richelle lives by the motto, “It doesn’t get easier, you just get stronger.” No matter the issue at hand, or as unpredictable as IT might get at times, Richelle is there with her strength and knowledge to tackle even the most unexpected events. She is truly an asset to the team and makes sure the firm is up and running no matter the technological hurdle.
Richelle and her husband, along with their son, enjoy sports. Richelle is proud to have watched her son play soccer for over 12 years. When she is not cheering on her son, she loves sitting by the fire and reading a good book.
Sara Stancil, CPA
Senior Manager
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Sara came to Bell & Company in 2019 with over 7 of years of experience under her belt. Not wasting any time once she joined the team, Sara stepped up and dove into the world of trust and estate tax planning and consulting and currently manages the Trust & Estate Tax specialty tax service department.
Sara is dedicated to her clients, regardless of the complexity of the situation they find themselves in. She seeks out the heart of the issue, fights for the most tax advantageous position for her clients, and is not afraid of a challenging tax situation – in fact, she is driven to succeed when given a seemingly insurmountable problem.
Sara is married with one son. When she is not at the office, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Corey Brooks, CPA
Manager
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Corey Brooks began her public accounting career in the summer of 2007, starting as an administrative assistant intern at a local CPA firm in North Little Rock while continuing her education. She worked there throughout her undergraduate studies and, after earning her Master of Accountancy from Hendrix College, transitioned to a full-time role. After her second son was born, Corey decided to explore the private sector for a time, but her “first love” was always public accounting.
Corey was thrilled to return to her passion when she joined the Bell & Company team in the fall of 2021. Specializing in Audit & Attest services, she works with clients across various industries, bringing her extensive expertise and love for a challenge to every engagement. One of her proudest professional accomplishments was passing the final section of the CPA exam just three weeks before her first son was born.
She and her husband, Charles, live in Little Rock with their two sons. In her free time, Corey loves spending time with her family, her mom, and her closest friends.
Dawn Roch, CPA
Supervisor
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Dawn began her career in government accounting before transitioning to public accounting in 2016, where she gained well-rounded experience in both audit and tax work. She became a licensed CPA in 2019 and joined Bell & Company in June 2024.
Dawn is passionate about serving her community and has served as treasurer on several nonprofit boards. She remains active in civic and church organizations and is excited to be part of a firm that shares her commitment to giving back.
Outside of work, Dawn stays busy with her husband, their four children (three girls and a boy), and two dogs. She enjoys traveling with her family, reading, doing puzzles, and exploring nature through walking and hiking.
Bobbi Britton, PHR, SHRM-CP
Chief Administration Officer
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Bobbi joined Bell & Company in 2019, as the Human Resources Director and was tasked with creating an HR Department to support the current team and the continued growth of the company. She is certified by the Human Resources Certification Institute as a Professional in Human Resources and a Certified Professional with the Society of HR Managers. Bobbi is a member of the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Central Arkansas HR Association (CAHRA).
Early career choices introduced her to Accounting and she worked as an Accounting Clerk. Working with employees while handling their payroll and benefits issues inspired her to convince her then-boss that a true HR department was needed. He agreed and said, “it’s on you; tell me what you need.” This unwavering support from former and current employers is the cornerstone to her success. The opportunity to help employees, be it a personal or professional matter, and to see their growth and appreciation are what provides her with professional fulfillment.
Bobbi is from Little Rock and grew up in the Allendale neighborhood. Her father was an OTR truck driver and her mother took care of managing the family of 5 children. Witnessing both of her parents' sacrifices to ensure their children had a better life solidified a strong worth ethic within her. Seeing the strong, independent woman that her mother was greatly impacted her view of herself. In her spare time, Bobbi loves to travel because there is so much of the world she has yet to see.
Lani Jennings-Hall
Chief Marketing Officer
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Lani is the Marketing Manager at Bell & Company, where she supports the firm’s brand, recruiting, and culture-building efforts.
With a background in digital media and nonprofit marketing, Lani oversees Bell & Company’s social media, content, and website presence, ensuring consistent messaging across internal and external channels. Her work focuses on strengthening the firm’s visibility, supporting talent development, and highlighting the people and values behind the work. She is also an active member of the Association for Accounting Marketing (AAM) and serves on AAM’s Social Media Committee, collaborating with marketing professionals across the accounting industry on content strategy, engagement, and emerging trends in firm marketing.
Lani plays an active role in the firm’s community and philanthropic initiatives and serves on the board of the Arkansas Community Foundation Faulkner County Affiliate. She is also involved with Conway Kids’ Triathlon and AMBCS, supporting efforts that invest in youth, education, and long-term community impact.
In recognition of her professional leadership and contributions, Lani was named a 2025 AMP Top 100 Professional.
Lani holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the University of Central Arkansas and brings more than a decade of experience in marketing and communications. Outside of work, she enjoys cycling and spending time with her family.
Recognition & Awards
2026
AMP Future Icon Recipient - Abby Freeman, CPA
AMP Most Admired Companies Recognition
AY’s Best Accounting Firm Award
INSIDE Public Accounting Top 500 Firms
2025
Jerry B. Adams Excellence in Philanthropy Award - Richard Bell, CPA, JD
AMP Top 100 Professionals Recipient - Lani Jennings-Hall
AMP Achiever in their 40s Recipient - Kelly Phillips, CPA
Forbes Best-in State Top CPA Recipient - Richard Bell, CPA, JD
2024
AY’s Best Accounting Firm Award
INSIDE Public Accounting Top 500 Firms
Beta Alpha Psi Business Information Professional of the Year Recipient - Richard Bell, CPA, JD
Prior Recognition
2021 - Recognition for House Bill 1209 Work
2020 - Arkansas Business Lifetime Achievement in Accounting Recipient - Richard Bell, CPA, JD
2019 - NLR Chamber Medium Business of the Year Award
2017 - William H. Bowen School of Law University of Arkansas at Little Rock Outstanding Public Service Award Recipient, Richard Bell, CPA, JD
2011 - National AICPA Public Service Award
