Leadership
What you do has far greater impact than what you say. – Stephen Covey
Our Team
Anne Leighty
Managing Partner
Phone: 616-446-0544
Email: [email protected]
Background & Experience:
I have been a partner in Phoenix Group LLC since November of 2018. I typically oversee all finance and accounting related engagements as well as some of the software selection engagements. My favorite part of my role is learning about the client and helping them achieve their goals. I have always had a passion for business and, in fact, started my own business at the age of thirteen. Each day I feel blessed to be at Phoenix Group working at my dream job. My responsibilities also include P & L oversight, human resources and client services.
My twelve plus years of consulting practice management plus in industry experience has given me specialization in the non-profit, aviation and manufacturing business sectors.
Outside of the office, I dedicate some time to giving back to the community and supporting my profession with board positions in organizations such as United Way, Institute of Management Accountants, West Michigan Association of Financial Professionals, Lakewood Community Women and SEEK.
As a working mother, my other passion is my crazy family. I have three beautiful daughters and strive to be a good role model for them. My oldest somewhat followed in my footsteps with a career in finance. In addition to the girls, I have two stepsons, two wonderful daughter-in-laws, a great son-in-law and five fun and lively grandchildren. My husband and I love to travel and my happy place is definitely on a tropical beach!
Bryan Blackburn
Partner
Phone: 616-481-2809
Email: [email protected]
Background & Experience:
I joined Phoenix Group LLC as a partner in May of 2017. My background as a former banker and technology business owner allows me to put myself in our client’s shoes and quickly identify with the challenges they face. At Phoenix Group, I am responsible for internal technology support and client services.
With over ten years of management consulting experience, I typically oversee the technology related engagements. My expertise includes healthcare, financial institutions and manufacturing.
I firmly believe in giving back to the community and am currently exploring new opportunities to do so.
When I am not in the office, you can often find me still cheering on the Rockford Rams or relaxing in Petoskey with my wife and two adult children. I have always enjoyed golfing but recently started skeet shooting and am an overall sports fan. I enjoy travel, with Florida being my favorite warm getaway.
Deidra McClelland
Fractional Marketing Consultant
I joined the Phoenix Group as a fractional marketing consultant in the fall of 2020 to assist with marketing projects.
My fifteen years of marketing consulting along with my years in healthcare have allowed me to learn about many industries and bring the best practices of each to each client engagement. Integrating web, internal/external marketing and communications and tying it all to operations and strategy is the space where I can bring the most value to organizations.
Outside of the office, I like to travel, read, enjoy the outdoors and spend time with friends.
To learn more about Deidra, visit her LinkedIn.
Erica Watts
Client Services Manager
Erica brings nearly 15 years of progressive business office and client relations experience to The Phoenix Group, along with an MBA and a strong commitment to service excellence.
Erica’s background is rooted in building trusted relationships and delivering thoughtful, solutions-oriented support. As a former Professional Collections Manager, she oversaw approximately 4,500 active student accounts, combining a results-driven approach to collections with a strong emphasis on client counseling and retention. Her ability to guide individuals through complex financial situations with clarity, professionalism, and empathy is a hallmark of her client service philosophy.
She also offers advanced analytical expertise, with a strong command of Microsoft Excel and data management, enabling her to identify trends, improve processes, and enhance the overall client experience.
At The Phoenix Group, Erica serves as a key client contact, focused on ensuring a seamless engagement, proactive communication, and a consistently high level of service. She is dedicated to building lasting relationships and helping clients achieve meaningful, measurable outcomes.