“Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at the testing point.” – C.S. Lewis

Expertise

Mr. Chip Marston is the Founder and Managing Partner of The Marston Group, PLC, where his practice focuses on advisory, tax and transaction-related financial reporting matters.  He serves as an advisor in closely held business ventures and works with companies and their leadership teams in all phases of business, including formation, funding, growth and exit strategies. Chip has extensive experience in the real estate development and management, professional services, aviation, music and entertainment, venture capital and agriculture industries.  In addition, he works with individuals and family groups in the development and execution of tax, estate and gift, and legacy planning strategies. He serves as an advisor to a number of closely held companies, families, trusts, and foundations. Chip’s career began with Ernst & Ernst (EY), followed by experience with a global, public cotton company and two regional accounting firms, prior to the formation of the firm that became The Marston Group, PLC. 

Chip also has extensive experience in tax, business, and complex family law controversies.  He has served as an expert witness, consultant, Special Master and Receiver in a number of litigated matters in state and federal courts and has represented clients before state and federal agencies in a variety of tax controversies. 

Education

• Bachelor of Business Administration (Cum Laude) – The University of Memphis.

Professional Designations

• Certified Public Accountant (TN)
• Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF)
• Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
• Tennessee Life and Health Insurance Licenses

Professional Affiliations

• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) including the Tax, Management Advisory, Forensic and Valuation Services, Financial Planning, and Private Companies Practice Sections
• Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA), various board and leadership positions

Civic Affiliations

• Dixon Gallery and Gardens – Chairman Emeritus 
• Dixon Gallery and Gardens -Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Past President Board of Trustees
• Dixon Gallery and Gardens Endowment Board – Vice Chairman & Board of Trustees
• Community Foundation of Greater Memphis – Vice Chairman; Executive Committee; Past Chairman Audit & Finance
• First Tee Tennessee – Advisory Board Member
• Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis – Past Vice Chairman, Past Trustee and Officer
• Make-A-Wish Mid South – Past Board of Directors
• University of Memphis Fogelman College of Business & Economics School of Accounting Advisory Board Past Member; Dean Search Committee
• Nexus: A Proven Experience in Leadership – Mentor – Class of 2011
• The 100 Club of Memphis
• Rotary Club of Memphis East – Paul Harris Fellow; Past Board Member and Officer
• Christian Psychological Center – Past Trustee and Officer
• Heritage Club – Planned Giving Affiliate of Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis  – Founding Member
• Community Legal Center  – Past Board Member and Officer

Honors & Awards

• Patriotic Employer: US Department of Defense – Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve
• Power Player: Inside Memphis Business 2009-2023