In the coming months, we’ll be spotlighting what it’s like to be a team member in our client-facing Service Lines: Small Business Advisory (SBA), Tax, Assurance, and Advisory & Consulting.
If you’re looking for a career that combines meaningful client work, exposure to diverse industries, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact, The Bonadio Group’s (TBG) Small Business Advisory (SBA) Service Line might be the place for you. From core accounting functions to strategic consulting, our SBA team members help business owners understand and overcome their financial challenges, becoming trusted advisors to businesses across a variety of industries.
Why SBA is Unique
Small businesses often don’t have advanced in-house accounting teams, which means they rely heavily on external expertise to help them navigate everything from bookkeeping to long-term growth strategies—our SBA team here at TBG does just that.
Steve Terrigino CPA, Service Line Leader for SBA, explains, “What sets SBA apart is the direct impact you have on small businesses. You work closely with business owners, helping them tackle real challenges and achieve their goals. Whether it’s guiding a client through complex tax regulations or creating a succession plan for their business, the work is dynamic and rewarding.”
A Typical Day
At its core, the SBA team delivers tailored solutions to help clients thrive. Here’s a glimpse into what you might do in a typical day as a member of our SBA team:
- Tax Preparation and Planning: From individual returns to complex business filings, SBA professionals handle a variety of tax-related tasks, ensuring clients remain compliant while optimizing their strategies.
- Bookkeeping: Many small businesses outsource this critical function to us, giving team members hands-on involvement in the day-to-day financial operations of clients.
- Strategic Advisory Services: Beyond traditional accounting, SBA advisors work with clients to develop growth strategies, streamline operations, and plan for the future.
For Jeff Dieso CPA, a Principal in SBA, a typical day is spent primarily assisting his clients in the Construction/Real Estate and Healthcare industries. “I assist my clients with accounting services, business tax preparation, and personal returns for owners. My goal is that my clients know that they contact me about their business or personal tax related questions as a trusted resource that is looking out for their best interests.”
A typical day for Holly Freed, EA, Manager in SBA, also includes reviewing and preparing business returns and individual filings. She adds, “I help business owners with tax, accounting, and general business questions. My role is to make sure their questions get answered and they’re getting the best advice.”
Benefits of Working in SBA
Building Impactful Client Relationships
One of the most rewarding aspects of working in the SBA service line is the opportunity to build long-term, impactful relationships with clients. Steve explains, “With small businesses, you interact directly with the business owners or key decision-makers, giving you a chance to make a tangible difference in their success.” Whether you’re advising on a tax strategy or helping a business navigate financial challenges, the influence you have is often immediate and meaningful.
For Eric Andolina CPA, a Senior Accountant in SBA, it’s the trust he builds with clients that stands out. “The most rewarding part of working in SBA is truly becoming a trusted advisor,” he shares. Many of the clients don’t have an in-house accounting team, so you quickly become the go-to person for their financial questions and concerns. “Helping a business owner work through a tough situation or giving them the tools they need to succeed is incredibly fulfilling.”
Endless Variety
One of the key career benefits of working in SBA is the variety—in fact, no two days are the same! From tax preparation and financial planning to business consulting and bookkeeping, SBA professionals gain hands-on experience across multiple areas. This diversity helps employees develop a broad skill set that’s invaluable in their careers. As Steve notes, “You’ll have the chance to learn and grow in many different areas, which helps you build a well-rounded skill set that’s great for your career development.”
A Culture of Connection and Collaboration
A positive, supportive work culture is central to the SBA team at TBG. This tight knit team celebrates both the small and big wins together, creating an atmosphere where hard work is balanced with fun and camaraderie. One memorable tradition that Holly looks back fondly on is the annual end of busy-season celebration. “There were a few years in a row when everyone in our office wore matching outfits for our post-April 15th celebration. One year, we all got jean jackets and personalized them with nicknames and patches!”
Jeff also shares a favorite tradition that the SBA team in Syracuse has embraced. “For the last five years or so, our team does an annual Christmas lunch that includes Chinese food and a white elephant gift exchange. Each year, we have a lot of fun and share some good laughs.”
However, the culture within TBG’s SBA Service Line is not just about fun traditions—it also fosters collaboration and mentorship. “The culture within SBA is all about teamwork and support,” Holly explains. “We’re all working together to provide the best service for our clients, and that teamwork is something I really value.”
A Career in SBA
Ultimately, working in SBA at The Bonadio Group is about more than just crunching numbers. It’s about making an impact and working alongside a team that genuinely cares about each other’s success. As Steve says, “The opportunity to mentor junior staff, the exposure to different industries, and the satisfaction of helping local businesses thrive are all things that make this role incredibly rewarding.”
If you’re looking for a career where you can work with passionate clients, gain broad experience, and develop professionally within a supportive team, the SBA Service Line at TBG could be the perfect place for you. Stay tuned for “A Day in the Life” of our other Service Lines as well!
Ready to take the next step? Check out our current openings to find your next opportunity. Whether you’re a new college graduate or an experienced professional, we’d love to connect with you and support you in finding the right career path!
