BNA CPAs & Advisors’ Post

I'M BACK IN SOUTH AFRICA AFTER AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE AT XEROCON 2024 IN NASHVILLE. Reflecting on the event, I’m incredibly impressed with the investment Xero is making into the U.S. market. The products coming down the pipeline are truly promising, and Xero’s vision for where the market is headed aligns perfectly with my own views. There’s a huge opportunity in the U.S. market, and the developments they’re making are nothing short of incredible. The connections made at Xerocon were also incredible. I had the chance to meet up with people I’ve only interacted with on LinkedIn or other social platforms, and having those face-to-face conversations was absolutely invaluable. Meeting up with Xero partners from USA, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and the UK provided a refreshing view of Xero’s global direction. It’s clear that as a firm, Outsourced CFO and Trigger play a pivotal role in this industry, and we’re ready to take on the challenges the whole industry is facing collectively. The keynote speakers delivered mind-opening perspectives, particularly on the role of AI in the accounting industry. The message was clear: as accountants, we’re not just service providers; we’re trusted advisors. AI and cloud accounting technology are going to empower us to provide even deeper insights into our clients' businesses. Attending the global and national partners conference was an eye-opener, revealing just how crucial our role is in today’s industry. We’re here to be more than accountants—we’re here to guide, advise, and add value to our clients' businesses. Nashville itself was a wild experience—busy, bustling, and full of energy. 🚀 Liz Mason statement about the Xerocon community really resonated with me: “This is a community.” When I first entered this industry, it was all about keeping to yourself, but Xerocon showed me how much that’s changed. We’re part of a global community that shares insights, builds connections, and supports each other. I’m proud to be associated with this community and excited about the connections I’ve made, both from a South African perspective and within the broader Xero ecosystem. Let’s embrace our role as trusted advisors and continue to elevate our industry. Let’s do this. #XeroCon #Nashville #AccountingIndustry #TrustedAdvisors #AI #CloudAccounting #Community Outsourced CFO Trigger

🌟 Unlock Your Professional Potential: Join Our Exclusive Accountancy Networking Opportunities! 🌟 🚀 Ready to take your career to new heights? Dive into a world of endless possibilities with our upcoming accountancy networking events! 🔥 Connect with industry leaders, exchange valuable insights, and forge meaningful connections that will propel your career forward. Whether you're a seasoned accountant or just starting out, there's something for everyone in our dynamic community. ✨ What to Expect: Engaging discussions led by renowned experts in the field. Cutting-edge topics that will keep you ahead of the curve. Opportunities to share your own expertise and learn from others. A supportive environment where collaboration thrives and ideas flourish. 🗓️ Mark Your Calendar: April 2024: Explore client acquisition strategies with "The 15 Minute Guy," Ashley Leeds. June 2024: Delve into tax matters from cradle to grave with David Logan from TAG Tax. September 2024: Learn about buying and selling accountancy fees with Nicola Draper. November 2024: Discover the future of accounting with Steve Darnell's insights into cloud accounting platforms. But that's not all! We're always on the lookout for fresh perspectives and exciting topics to keep our community engaged. Have a suggestion? We want to hear from you! 📩 Don't Miss Out: Secure your spot today by emailing us to receive tailored invitations to the events that suit your interests. And remember, our networking opportunities are not just about business—they're about building lasting relationships and fostering professional growth. Join us and elevate your accounting journey to new heights! #AccountancyNetworking #ProfessionalGrowth #ConnectAndThrive 🚀✨

XfE - We're not just a product, we're people and we're your partner 🤝 The past couple of weeks have been exceptionally busy for us here at XfE, but we've tackled it heads on, and we're now coming out of the other side in a far healthier state. Whilst we need to pay tribute to the software we use and the software we have developed, it's critical for us to remember WHY we do what we do. Our purpose has always been to make people's lives better and easier, and there's a fair few examples of this in the past few weeks: ❌ We have discussed with a prospect WHY their requirements will NOT be a good match with our system (fear not everybody, this was a very unique set of circumstances!) 📋 We have helped a number of trusts UNDERSTAND their figures and outlined WHY things migrated from their legacy system are different to their annual accounts - definitely a value add but all part of the service and they were delighted - "I have never understood the accounts but this hour has helped me so much" 📊 Fathom has been implemented at several Trusts and they are benefitting, or very shortly will benefit, from the fantastic reporting templates we are setting up 💥 We have been working very closely with a Local Authority to set up a plan, and execute, the rollout of XfE to all of their 20 schools - we've already saved 2 days a month for the LA on some reporting too! 🤐 We're currently building out 2 more integrations to XfE to Specific Budget Solutions and hopefully these will IMPress everybody - read between the lines folks! I'll be sharing my story next week on how one of our clients is helping me personally, and this has really shone a light on the WHY we do what we do! Today I'm in London for a Xero partners day so plenty of time to work on our WHY on the train 🚄 #LoveMyJob #TeamWorkMakesTheDreamWork #BestInClass #EducationFinance

Last week I announced I was on the way to a sustainability-focussed Partner Success day at Xero HQ - so what was the key insight from the Q&A? 👇 💡People often think of B Corp as a mark of being environmentally friendly, but that’s a surprisingly small aspect💡 Other areas assessed include the impact of the business and its approach to; • workers • customers • community • governance • supply chain Given the core values, attitudes towards team members and client focus, Xero partner firms are likely closer to the B Corp standard than they imagine. The key differences tend to come from 1) Mission Lock - changing the company’s Articles of Association to include explicit consideration of people and planet, not just profit in its decision making. 2) Impact Business Model - a systemically embedded impact/charity contribution (in our case 20% of profits). But It’s not about meeting the standard. It’s about the attitude, the values, the commitment to business as a force for good. It’s about the continuous drive to improve. Not an alien concept really. It’s a common trait for many businesses, particularly Xero partners. Why not have a run through the free B Impact Assessment tool. #bcorp #xeropartners #sustainability  

Today we welcomed the Head of ABAS for the south Jeremy Gardner to the Beaconsfield office. It was great to have Jeremy with us where he was invited to hear everything we’re doing and how we’re getting along in the Azets Beaconsfield Office. Who better to present than our very own Ravinder Bains? Naturally, he offered to take the lead, and, as expected, he absolutely smashed it. He gave a balanced, insightful overview of how the ABAS team is constantly evolving. The presentation covered our key objectives and plans for the future—both in the coming months and further down the road. It was a fair reflection of our journey so far, highlighting the challenges we have faced, the teamwork that’s helped us overcome them, and those we’re still tackling as we look ahead. While there were plenty of successes to celebrate (and there are many!), one thing’s for sure: Team ABAS Beaconsfield won’t be getting complacent. We’re always looking to improve and provide the best possible service to our clients. One area we focused on with our client was our Xero Health Check, led by Kingsley Sibanda and the Outsourcing team. Yes, Azets promote Xero as a great bookkeeping solution,and for good reasons. But it also matters to us that our clients, and anyone using Xero, are leveraging all its features is key to helping businesses run more efficiently and effectively. If you’re using Xero and would like a health check, please get in touch—we’re happy to help. #Azets #Beaconsfield #Xero (If you’re wondering we had a sandwich buffet after the presentation)

What a whirlwind Accountex London 2024 was! From insightful sessions to vibrant networking, it was an absolute blast. Highlights? Too many to count! From AI buzz to panel powerhouses, every moment was packed with inspiration. And let's talk takeaways: 🏗️ The power of best-of-breed: Building in accounting tech sets a high bar. No shortcuts, just sheer dedication. 🏃 Chaser stole the show: Vibrant, engaging, and oh-so-effective. Accounts receivable has never looked better. Kudos for standing the test of time and winning the Xero App Partner of the Year award! Xero ☁️ Cloud innovations abound: Celebrating Castaway Forecasting and Roveel's latest launches was a highlight. Legends in the making! When it comes to software, it's not just about solutions—it's about listening. I've always been a proud #SageChampion because Sage doesn't just provide answers; they actively seek feedback to enhance their products. That eagerness to improve sets them apart. Sage And now, diving into the insights from QuickBooks' Roman-themed mini-theatre was a treat. The visual and engaging vendor stands prove that accountants aren't boring anymore! Intuit QuickBooks Claire Bartlett's session was a beacon of positivity, optimism, and actionable advice. Her insights resonated deeply and reinforced the exciting trajectory of our industry. Grateful for the experience and excited for the future. Until next time, keep innovating and inspiring! #Accountex2024 #Accountex #acca #accountancy #accountexLondon  #automation #MindspaceOutsourcing #Sage #Xero #Quickbooks

Xero is redefining what’s possible for scaling organisations 👀 We had the pleasure of speaking with Michael Green, GM Partnerships UK & EMEA at Xero, about their decision to be the headline sponsor for our inaugural Stacked event. Here’s why they jumped on board: 1️⃣ To demonstrate their commitment to supporting this community of larger Xero users. 2️⃣ To showcase the value Xero brings to businesses as they grow and scale. Watch the full interview to learn more! #Stacked2024 #Xero #FinanceCommunity #ScalingUp #FinanceLeadership

🌟 HDS at the Xero Roadshow 2024! 🌟 We are thrilled to announce that the entire HDS team attended the Xero Roadshow South Africa 2024 this year. Packed with invaluable insights and inspirational stories, it was well worth the time spent outside the office. Here are some highlights that resonated with us: 🧠 Dr. Caroline Leaf - Brain Scientist and Bestselling Author Dr. Leaf shared eye-opening statistics on mental health in the workplace, revealing that 35% of productivity is lost due to mental health struggles. Her insights emphasize the importance of supporting mental well-being to enhance productivity and foster a healthier work environment. 🚀 Rusty Labuschagne - Inspirational Speaker Rusty’s story of overcoming a decade of wrongful imprisonment in Zimbabwe is a testament to the human spirit. He reminded us that "Fear can only be overcome by facing it" and encouraged us to "Do more of what you love." His message of hope, resilience, and the power of choice resonates deeply with our mission at HDS. 💡 Alex von Schirmeister - Xero Alex emphasized the importance of innovation and adaptability in small businesses. His statement, "The most expensive words in business are: We have always done it this way," challenges us to continuously seek better ways to serve our clients and communities. 📈 Professional Insights: The Xero Roadshow provided us with a comprehensive overview of the latest features and updates in the Xero ecosystem. We learned about new tools designed to streamline accounting processes, enhance financial reporting, and improve client collaboration. These advancements will allow us to deliver even more efficient and effective services to our clients, ensuring they remain at the forefront of financial innovation. May you also take time in the coming month to attend or do something that will inspire and motivate you for the coming months. #HDSAccounting #XeroRoadshow2024 #MentalHealth #Innovation #SmallBusiness #Resilience #Productivity

My journey at Xero almost never happened. Not through lack of effort though... Apologies to everyone in the recruitment team for the number of times I showed up in your DMs. I got lucky - extremely lucky, because the preferred candidate for the role I wanted turned down their offer... which is how I got the call up! And so after 8 years, 4 countries, 8 different roles, a silly number of Roadshows (this Roadshow in Calgary takes the prize for more enthusiastic room - but it could have been -20C outside, so perhaps just happy to be inside, eh???), and 13 Xerocons... It's time for me to sign off from Xero. I have so much affection for the place. What it stands for, it's mission, the way the accounting and bookkeeping community brought it to life, all the Xeros that worked diligently to move the business forward as it built more and more momentum. It's a real unicorn story, and I'm proud to have been part of it. The truth is, I miss being part of the team, I miss speaking to customers, and I miss being able to work with all the firms around the world that show up for business owners, their families, and their local communities. But you know what? The best part about experiences is that they stay with you. It's been a dream, wishing you all well, thank you for the memories. 🙏🩵 PS: I'm going to start sitting in the front row at conferences, maybe that can be a trend for 2024?? 😆

🌟🏆 Winner Spotlight - Most Effective Team of the Year 🏆🌟 Next up in the spotlight - Xero, winners of the Most Effective Team of the Year Award! Here's what the judges had to say: "This award recognises a team that excels in internal collaboration and alignment with organisational strategy. The Xero Team’s remarkable ability to work seamlessly within multi-disciplinary teams has garnered positive testimonials from internal stakeholders, - highlighting their commitment to delivering quality projects and exceeding savings targets. Innovative solutions, such as the implementation of a chatbot, have further improved collaboration. Despite operating across multiple locations, the team maintains high engagement levels through regular virtual check-ins and face-to-face meetings, fostering a strong sense of unity. Their focus on delivering significant benefits, including an ESG supplier ratings tool and enhanced risk management support, showcases their effectiveness and dedication to driving value within the organisation." 🎉 Congratulations Xero! 🏆 The Most Effective Team of the Year Award was sponsored by Grant Thornton New Zealand Ltd. #ProcurementExcellence #nzpefawards2024 #NZProcurementExcellence #InnovateProcurement #AwardsNight #Networking #ExcellenceInProcurement #IndustryLeadership #nzprocurement hashtag #procurement