LaRese Purnell

LaRese Purnell is a Cleveland-based entrepreneur, financial strategist, and published author recognized for his work in financial empowerment and economic equity. Purnell is the co-owner and managing partner of CLE Consulting Firm, an accounting, tax, and payroll company located in downtown Cleveland. The firm supports the financial health of small businesses and nonprofits. Purnell has held executive positions leading business and financial departments within multi-million dollar for-profit and nonprofit organizations.

Purnell holds an MBA in finance from the University of Toledo and a master’s in accountancy in corporate taxation from John Carroll University. He is the author of "Financial Foundations: Building Financial Freedom One Tool at a Time," which addresses fundamental questions about money management. Purnell has traveled to dozens of cities across the United States to teach financial literacy at conventions, seminars, colleges, and universities. He has also taught financial literacy and entrepreneurship at multiple higher education institutions, including historically Black colleges and universities. As entrepreneur in residence at Cuyahoga Community College, Purnell has counseled hundreds of small business owners, many of whom are minorities, on business success strategies.

Purnell is known for developing The Real Black Friday, an initiative designed to increase awareness and support for Black-owned businesses in northeastern Ohio. The Real Black Friday has contributed to a significant economic impact, bringing visibility and access to Black-owned businesses throughout the region. As part of this effort, Purnell showcased more than 100 startups during the NBA All-Star Weekend in downtown Cleveland. He has also served as the national ambassador for Our Money Matters, an organization focused on building wealth for students at historically Black colleges and universities and working with organizations and nonprofits to address the wealth gap in the Black community.

Purnell’s civic involvement includes serving as chair of the YMCA of Greater Cleveland Board of Directors, as well as board roles with Cleveland Clinic South Pointe Hospital, Cleveland Public Library Foundation, 100BMOA, Inc., StepForward, and USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation. He regularly speaks at forums, classrooms, and community centers, advising minority students and community members on generational wealth building and financial literacy.

Purnell’s personal experience with homelessness and financial hardship informs his commitment to financial education and community development. He has been featured in local and national publications and has appeared on radio and television programs discussing financial matters. Purnell has received several awards, including the Smart 50 Business Award, Crain’s Business 40 Under 40, and Cleveland Magazine’s Most Interesting People. He is recognized for his expertise in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and economic empowerment.