Melissa Dean
Melissa Dean is a highly accomplished forensic accountant with more than 25 years of experience specializing in forensic accounting and insurance claims analysis. As Director of Forensic Accounting Services at Crawford & Company, she leads complex investigations involving financial disputes, business interruption, fraud, and insurance losses. Her work combines deep technical expertise with a keen analytical approach to deliver accurate, defensible financial assessments for clients across a wide range of industries.
Before joining Crawford & Company in 2017, Melissa held key roles in forensic services at PricewaterhouseCoopers and Travelers, where she managed high-profile cases involving commercial losses and fraud investigations. She began her career with Matson, Driscoll & Damico Ltd., gaining extensive experience in loss measurement and litigation support. Her credentials as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), and Master Analyst in Financial Forensics (MAFF) reflect her commitment to the highest standards of professional integrity and technical excellence.
Melissa earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Beyond her professional achievements, she is deeply engaged in community service, having volunteered for over a decade with organizations such as Presbyterian Healthcare Services and New York Cares. Known for her collaborative leadership and dedication to mentorship, Melissa continues to make a lasting impact in both her profession and community.
• University of North Carolina at Charlotte
• Children's Hospital
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for the forensic accounting industry. I care deeply about the work I do and the impact it has on clients and colleagues, which drives me to maintain high standards of professionalism, accuracy, and integrity in every engagement.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is: *if you don’t understand something, don’t sit on it—go get help.* Seeking clarification and learning from others not only builds knowledge but also strengthens collaboration and trust within a team.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple—enter this field of work! Forensic accounting is dynamic, challenging, and deeply rewarding. Be curious, stay confident, and never hesitate to ask questions or seek mentorship. Your perspective and dedication can make a real impact, and there is incredible opportunity for growth and leadership in this profession.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in our field right now is helping policyholders understand the claims process and what is actually recoverable under their policies. This creates an important opportunity for forensic accountants to bridge that gap—by communicating clearly, educating clients, and ensuring transparency throughout the process. When policyholders are better informed, the entire claims experience becomes more efficient, fair, and collaborative.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me, both in my work and personal life, are **honesty and dedication**. I approach every professional engagement with integrity and a commitment to excellence. Outside of work, I’m passionate about staying active—I’ve completed 12 half-marathons—and I love being out socially, enjoying live music, open mic nights, and small concerts. I’m also an avid reader, with a particular interest in crime, drama, and World War II history, which keeps my curiosity and analytical skills sharp.