Balancing Mum life with a busy business can be a challenge, but Riverland-based accountant and Mum Cat Santini is a seasoned professional.
Cat is the founder of CS Accounting and is passionate about her clients and unveiling the power of numbers. Cat is not your regular accountant, but rather a new generation accountant, and she gave us a glimpse into CS Accounting’s journey and mission.
For Cat, it’s not just about compliance and getting your tax done, it’s also about business advisory and strategy, giving clients clarity and confidence with reliable and efficient accounting, helping them to better understand their businesses.
CS Accounting: The Beginning
Cat joined the accounting industry in 2004 and launched her accounting firm in 2019. What began as in a room in her home has expanded into an office space in a prime location with three staff. However, the reason behind starting her firm is bittersweet.
“This decision came after my father’s passing, a moment that made me realise how short life can be. I had always wanted to start my own firm,” Cat says.
“Running my own business has made me a better accountant. I now have a deep understanding of the struggles businesses go through. I’ve experienced the full range of emotions. I have had difficult conversations. Clients see that and appreciate my honesty and understanding.”
Her Passion for Numbers
Cat is all about helping business owners fall in love with numbers so they can use the insights to achieve success, driven by a dream to create a world where business owners love their business finances.
“It might sound a bit strange, but so many business people have an uneasy relationship with their numbers. I get a kick out of taking them on a journey to uncover what they might not have considered,” she says.
“There are stories and insights hidden in those numbers, things that most business owners would gobble up if only they knew where to look. I’m here to break down what their financial statements, tax returns, and business activity reports actually mean, so they can use this info to steer their business decisions smartly.”
“The key achievement in my career is unequivocally helping business owners fall in love with their numbers. There’s no astounding million-percent growth case study in my book of business that could possibly surpass that.”
Tips for Business Growth
Cat says working with an accountant and determining your goals and strategy for what you want to achieve are extremely important, which will clarify your mission, values, and ideal client.
“From there, break it down into actionable tasks and have someone hold you accountable for those tasks. Be prepared to say no to clientele or anything that does not serve your plan. Share your plan with your partner, children, and friends, and let them help you stay on track,” she says.
Her Biggest Achievements
CS Accounting has developed initiatives to support women in business and regional businesses, which Cat says have led their clients to success with growing their businesses and achieving their goals.
“My biggest success has been helping my clients understand and love their numbers. I know from direct experience how profoundly a renewed relationship with numbers can change a business owner’s life, and it is something that I am very passionate about. It’s my life’s work, truly,” Cat says.
“I have helped business owners who were struggling to get their head around their finances — who were thinking of quitting, as a result — to take control of their numbers and use them to drive growth. In the end, you’re not just sorting out their books; you’re helping them overcome a block or a perceived weakness they’ve been avoiding.”
To find out more about CS Accounting, visit their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
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