Phillip Bonton grew up in a military home, where he developed a strong sense of duty, responsibility, and respect for public institutions that continues to guide his approach to leadership and governance. He is a highly qualified candidate for Gwinnett County Tax Commissioner with a professional background rooted in financial governance, regulatory compliance, and disciplined public stewardship.

Phillip holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, a Master of Accountancy, and a Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology, combining strong communication skills with advanced financial analysis and structured procedures that support regulatory expectations and audit readiness. He has earned the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) certification administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). 

He is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a Registered Tax Return Preparer and as an Authorized Electronic Filing Provider, reflecting federal authorization to prepare and electronically file tax returns in compliance with IRS requirements. He is also certified in Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Financial Crime and Fraud Analysis, Global Sanctions and Financial Integrity, and CompTIA Cybersecurity, with specialization in analyzing suspicious transactions, tracing flows of funds, evaluating sources and uses of funds, assessing sanctions and terrorism-financing risk, and protecting sensitive financial and taxpayer information in regulated environments.

As a graduate of the Gwinnett County Citizen’s Police Academy and through his experience leading community outreach at the Gwinnett County Solicitor’s Office, Phillip has demonstrated a deep commitment to public service and community engagement. These roles have given him direct experience working with residents, listening to concerns, and supporting initiatives that strengthen trust in local institutions.