Editor's Note: This is another installment in our ongoing series highlighting this year's Insightful Accountant's "2018 Top 100 ProAdvisors." Over the remainder of the year, we will introduce you to our winners, getting their insights on a wide range of topics, including what it is like to be a leader in their profession, how to stay on top and what the future holds.
Sam Rotberg
This week's Top 100 ProAdvisor profile will be featuring Sam Rotberg, Director at AS Partners; a director and part owner of the accounting firm. Sam started as a Junior Accountant in this practice in 1983, and became a partner in 1990; growing the practice from a staff of 8 in 1990, to now getting close to 40 including a bookkeeping business that they have acquired.
Tell us a little about your practice.
We are a four-partner firm with 36 staff members, providing business superannuation and taxation advice. Serving the medical/paramedical, travel, building, as well as many other service industries, and we love being their trusted advisor. We are open to new technologies and have been using cloud based products for a few years now. We recently acquired a bookkeeping business to enhance our services.
Give us a snapshot of today's accounting landscape. What are seeing out there?
With changes in the cloud and AI, etc., there is a need to keep a close relationship with your clients and offer a variety of services and ensure that as their trusted advisor, we are their first point of call.
What is the biggest item on your to-do list in the upcoming YEAR?
Looking to offer more services to clients. E.g. mortgage broking and Insurance services.
What advice would you give to today's accountants?
If you are not using the cloud, get there fast; before you get left behind. As well as make relationships with bookkeepers that are up to date with technology.
What does it mean to you to be recognized out of more than 300,000 ProAdvisors in the world?
It is a great feeling but its not well know in Australia by others other than in our industry.
Your first thoughts on getting news of the honor?
I was very proud and surprised
How has your ProAdvisor practice changed or evolved over the last couple of years?
Changes have occurred in technology, especially the cloud space and fee resistance, but we have used both to our advantage and now offer value add services.
Why is continuing to enhance your skills and acumen critical to staying one step ahead of the curve?
Technology is progressing so fast that we constantly need to keep up to date.
What was the best piece of advice you ever received?
Always put yourself in the shoes of the client when thinking about how they want to be serviced and supported.
What is the story that best describes how you help your clients?
I always treat my clients how I would want to be treated and always show empathy towards them and their issues.
How do you create balance in your work and personal life?
I must admit with technology and high expectations due to technology, it can be very hard, but I always ensure I have 6 weeks off per year plus a few long weekends. Recharging is important as is family life.
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