Stephen J. Lidd, CPA, is a distinguished financial strategist with over 45 years of experience in personal finance, corporate strategy, and business development. Armed with a Certified Public Accountant license, FINRA Series 66 and Series 7 certifications, and an MBA in Finance from the University of Chicago, Stephen has built a career centered on delivering innovative solutions in financial planning, process improvement, and mergers and acquisitions.
Stephen’s expertise spans across financial services and telecommunications, where he has played pivotal roles in shaping corporate strategy and enhancing financial performance. His career trajectory includes impactful tenures with leading organizations, including Verizon, Sprint, and LPL Financial, where he demonstrated his ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and drive measurable results.
During his tenure as Manager of Corporate Strategy at Verizon, Stephen led critical industry analyses and competitive assessments, contributing to the company’s success in spectrum acquisitions and 5G infrastructure planning. His portfolio analysis and scenario planning expertise helped rationalize value creation and guided the company’s strategic decision-making. At Sprint Nextel, Stephen managed a venture capital investment portfolio, overseeing deal sourcing, due diligence, and financial modeling to align investments with corporate objectives. His work ensured long-term value creation and strategic alignment across the organization.
Stephen’s leadership in financial planning extends beyond the corporate world. At LPL Financial, he created tailored financial plans for high-net-worth clients, specializing in tax optimization, retirement planning, and risk management. He designed diversified investment strategies to maximize after-tax returns while mitigating risks, showcasing his dedication to enhancing individual wealth and financial security.
His contributions to process improvement and compliance are equally noteworthy. As Shared Services Internal Audit & SOX Compliance Manager at Sprint Nextel, Stephen implemented a model internal control program that safeguarded $40 billion in spending, focusing on fraud detection and forensic accounting. His proactive approach ensured regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
Stephen’s international exposure includes professional engagements in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Europe, reflecting his ability to operate effectively across diverse markets. He is also a seasoned speaker, having presented on insurance funding and conducted workshops for higher education audiences, further establishing his thought leadership in finance and strategy.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Stephen is passionate about fantasy sports, investing, and exchange-traded funds. He is deeply committed to helping families achieve financial security, a value reflected in his personal mission: “Helping families in personal finance.”
Stephen’s extensive experience, from working with startups to Fortune 500 companies, positions him as an invaluable asset to organizations seeking strategic financial guidance. Whether serving on a board or leading complex financial initiatives, Stephen brings a wealth of knowledge, a forward-thinking mindset, and an unwavering dedication to excellence.
Character: Stephen J. Lidd is a dedicated and ethical professional driven by a passion for helping families achieve financial security and organizational excellence.
Knowledge: With over 45 years of experience, he brings deep expertise in financial planning, corporate strategy, tax optimization, and M&A across diverse industries.
Strategic: Stephen excels in analyzing complex challenges, crafting innovative solutions, and aligning financial strategies with long-term organizational goals.
Communication: A seasoned speaker and advisor, he conveys complex financial concepts with clarity, fostering collaboration and informed decision-making.
