Two of Hawke’s Bays’ most innovative accountancy firms — enablebusiness and Knowledge Accountants — have joined forces to deliver even more value to their clients.
Well-known Hastings accountant Cedric Knowles and his team at Knowledge Accountants Ltd have merged with enable- business Hawke’s Bay – and the new two-partner firm is looking forward to an exciting future.
“We’re rapt to have Cedric and his team on board,” says Sam Ogle of enablebusiness.
“Our two firms are very similar – we’re both passionate about the Bay, and we share the same philosophy. We believe accountancy is more than just ticking-the-boxes and filing tax returns on time…it’s about bringing those wider business skills and proactive advice that will really add value.”
Cedric has been running Knowledge Accountants for 10 years; while enable- business started in the Bay nearly four years ago, and is headed by Sam Ogle.
The two Directors also have a similar approach when it comes to their client relationships, adds Cedric.
“Most of our clients have been with us for many years. It’s important to build that strong relationship, so you actually enjoy working together. It doesn’t hurt to bring a sense of humour either.”
Growing client base
The two firms have a similar client base – mostly family-owned businesses in trades, manufacturing, export businesses, professional services, and horticulture/ viticulture. Although proudly Hawke’s Bay-based, they also have clients based throughout regional New Zealand, Australia and even the Chatham Islands.
Cedric says the feedback from his clients about the merger has been “overwhelmingly positive”. The merger will deliver several benefits for the newly-expanded client base.
“From our clients’ perspective, we now have an even broader set of skills and expertise in-house,” says Sam.
“When it comes to solving client issues, two heads are better than one. We also bring different skills to the table. For instance, Cedric is experienced in forensic accounting and providing expert witness services.”
Moving forward, the firm will host business education events that encourage clients to network with each other, and potentially forge new business alliances.
Value-added packages
As a national group of accountancy professionals – located in Auckland, Wellington and the Hawke’s Bay – enablebusiness offers a full range of accountancy and business advisory services.
They specialise in providing clients with affordable fixed-fee packages, specifically designed for the SME-sized business.
There are three types of packages – each with affordable ‘no surprises’ fees – to suit the business at every stage of growth. To help with cash flow, payments can be made by monthly instalment.
“Our philosophy is that we like to quote everything up-front before we do any work… just like our clients have to do in their own business,” says Sam.
“The Basics” is a cost-effective package covering annual returns, GST, tax compliance,
as well as phone and email support. The “Enabler” and “Enabler Ultra” packages are aimed at business owners who are ready for the next stage of growth. They include a business plan, followed up with business coaching quarterly or monthly management reporting, and annual integrated forecasting. Advice on HR and people management can also be provided.
Outcome focused business plans
Their business coaching and advisory services are a key point of difference from the traditional accountant’s offering. enablebusiness offers business planning to set goals and objectives; supported by regular business coaching.
“This is not the kind of business plan you file away in a draw to collect dust,” says Sam.
“It’s a punchy two-pager that’s entirely outcome focused. We tell clients they can laminate it and put it on the dash of their ute – to remind themselves daily what they need to be doing, and why.”
The plan has 12-month objectives, broken down into 90-day tasks. The coaching sessions keep the client on track to their goals, and accountable to themselves.
“The coaching is about making sure the business plan gets executed. It’s a bit like having a mini-Board of directors – a trusted team who are helping you solve problems and overcome roadblocks, while keeping you on course to achieve your goals.”
