When Maillie expanded into Delaware in 2018, the move was about more than geography. It was an investment in building deeper client relationships and the kind of regional presence that provides access to expanded expertise and capabilities.
In this conversation, Partner Danielle VanderWerf shares how the Wilmington office operates and how Maillie’s collaborative model is the key to better outcomes for clients.
Q: How does being part of a Top 300 public accounting firm like Maillie strengthen the experience for clients supported by the Wilmington office?
A: Delaware is a small state, and having a strong regional presence here really matters. Part of the vision when this office became part of Maillie in 2018 was bringing expanded expertise and resources into the Delaware market while still maintaining that local connection.
That’s a big advantage. Clients still get responsiveness and gain access to a much broader network of expertise and resources. When complex situations come up, whether it’s succession planning, a transaction, or a unique business challenge, we’re able to pull in the right people across the firm to support clients strategically.
Q: Tell me more about how the broader access to expertise shows up in practice for clients.
A: A lot of times, we’re helping clients through situations that go far beyond day-to-day compliance work, whether that’s preparing for a sale, succession planning, or navigating a more complex business decision. If a unique scenario comes up, we’re able to bring together specialists across areas like valuation, and tax strategy who have likely dealt with something very similar before. Our clients can truly feel confident that they have the right team supporting them.
Q: Can you share an example of how this approach has made a meaningful impact for a client?
A: One recent example that stands out involved a client that was looking to acquire another business. It became a true team effort across several areas of the firm.
Our tax team helped structure the deal in a way that was most beneficial from a tax standpoint, while other team members supported the due diligence process. During that work, we identified some accounting inconsistencies that ultimately helped reduce the purchase price for the client. Our valuation team also became involved and helped further evaluate the transaction.
In the end, the client was able to successfully acquire the business, secure a reduction in the purchase price, and move forward with a well-structured deal. It’s that kind of team effort that makes all the difference for our clients.
Q: How would you describe your approach to leading and supporting the team in Wilmington?
A: I have a very open-door policy, and everyone here knows that. At Maillie, our people based in Wilmington aren’t necessarily only working on Wilmington area clients. We operate firm-wide, so people know they can come to me with questions, ask for advice, or talk through challenges whether it’s directly related to clients of the Delaware office or not.
I’m always happy to help and be supportive. We maintain a calm but upbeat atmosphere here. People feel comfortable asking questions and collaborating and that creates confidence across the entire team, from principals to our administrative professionals and those early in their career. It is important to all of us that we have the kind of environment that allows our people to grow, contribute, and do their best work together.
Q: Why is that kind of environment equally important for clients?
A: I believe that people do their best work when they feel supported and confident. When teams can stay focused and collaborative, clients benefit from that too. There’s better communication, better decision-making, and ultimately a smoother overall experience that results in stronger outcomes.
Q: As you look ahead, what gives you confidence about the future?
A: I’d say it is really our culture, how our team operates and how we deliver for clients every day. I think that combination of strong relationships, collaboration, and expertise positions Maillie and our Wilmington office for continued growth well into the future.
