lena combs headshot

Lena G. Combs

CPA, CGMA Team Leader, Hospitality

Get to Know Me

Lena is the Practice Leader for the firm’s Hospitality Services Team, specializing in providing accounting and audit services to clients in the hotel and lodging sector.

She also works with clients in the not-for-profit, education and professional services industries. With over 30 years of experience, Lena has a proven track record of enhancing guest experiences, optimizing operations, and driving revenue growth for some of the most prestigious hotel and resort brands in the world. Her deep understanding of industry trends and innovative approach make her a sought-after consultant and advisor. 

Lena’s commitment to excellence and her passion for the industry are evident in every project she undertakes, ensuring that her clients achieve outstanding results and maintain a competitive edge in the market. Her service areas of expertise include agreed-upon procedures, business analysis, client-outsourced services, compliance and performance audits, internal control evaluation and operational and financial consulting.

Industry Expertise

Service Expertise

Learn More About My Story

Learn more about my professional experience and how I spend my time outside the firm.

Education:

  • BS, Stetson University
  • Masters in taxation, University of Florida
  • Graduate, Leadership Orlando, Class 86
  • Graduate, FBI Citizen’s Academy

Professional Affiliations:

  • Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Member, Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA)
  • Member, FICPA, Common Interest Realty Association Conference Planning Committee, Past Chair
  • Member, FICPA, Women in Leadership Summit Conference Planning Committee, Past Chair
  • Member, International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC)
  • Trustee Member, American Resort Development Association (ARDA) Audit Committee Chair ARDA
  • Audit Committee Chair ARDA
  • ARDA-WIN Executive Committee
  • Member, Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association (CFHLA)
  • Member, American Hotel Lodging Association (AHLA)
  • Orlando Advisory Board Member and Board Chair, Devereux Florida
  • Treasurer and Finance Commission Member, Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida
  • Board of Trustees Member, Devereux Foundation
  • Treasurer, Emmanuel Episcopal Church
  • Graduate, Leadership Winter Park Class 28

Authored Insights

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Swimming pool at caribbean resort.
Understanding the Financial Side of Timeshare Ownership

Timeshares have helped millions of families enjoy memorable vacations in high-quality resorts year after year. For owners who value consistency, destination options, spacious accommodations, and resort-style amenities, vacation ownership can be a practical and rewarding way to travel. Understanding how to get what is desired from a vacation ownership product is also important. Whether it…

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digital arrows representing increasing costs.
Navigating Rising Insurance Costs in Hospitality

The hospitality industry has faced mounting challenges over the past five years, with insurance costs emerging as one of the most pressing issues for hotel owners and operators. In a recent episode of Withum’s Lodging Insights and Innovations Podcast, Lena Combs, Partner and leader of Withum’s Hospitality Services Team, sat down with Joey Masters, Senior…

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Green, glowing battery and leaf representing clean energy concept.
Green Hospitality: Boosting Guest Satisfaction and Profits With Clean Energy

The hospitality industry relies on significant amounts of electricity and gas to ensure their guests feel comfortable and safe. According to EnergyStar.Gov, hotels in America spend an average of $2,196 per available room each year on energy, representing approximately 6 percent of operating costs. Sustainability has become an increasingly important criteria for travelers. According to…