Jan 23

Jan 23 Member Spotlight: Christopher Nash

It’s tax time, which makes it the perfect time for us to introduce you to BostonYPA Member Christopher Nash, CPA. Chris’ business is here to help us with what many of us dread - filing and paying our taxes!

Let’s get to know Christopher Nash!

What are your current responsibilities and background?

My primary responsibilities at my firm are to manage clients of the firm and the people at the firm. I have to make sure all client’s needs are consistently met and staff are productive.

Did you grow up in Boston? If not, what led you here?

I grew up in Weymouth, MA, a south shore kid.

Tell us more about your job or company - what led you to this focus?

I started my accounting career as a graduate assistant at Bridgewater State University. I then moved on to Deloitte as an audit associate. I moved over to The Seigfried Group, my primary client was Ernst & Young. After a few years in the big 4, I joined a CPA to start DeBiasi & Nash with 3 full time employees. We are now a firm of over 20 professionals and growing.

What would your clients or colleagues say about you?

My clients would say I am their tax man, financial advisor, and some would say I am a life coach. A lot of my clients will not make any major decisions without asking me first.

My staff would say I am the fearless leader. We are a great team and I am only as good as the staff I have.

Do you have a secret weapon? Special skill?

My secret weapon would be my network. I never burn a bridge and find a way to connect with any and everyone.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? Or a mantra you live by?

The best advice I have ever received was when I was in college in my accounting 200 class. I was a finance major at the time. My professor had every non-accounting major raise their hand. I was one of two students who raised their hand. She looked right at me and told me if I wanted a job when I graduate, I would switch my major to accounting. This got me thinking. I did some research on the accounting profession and decided that I would switch my major to pursue an accounting degree. I set the goal of becoming a CPA and owning my own firm, checking both off about 5 years after college.

What's your most recent win? A moment in your career that you’re proud of?

The biggest moment of my career was passing the CPA exam that put all the wheels in motion to grow an accounting practice.

What advice would you give someone just starting in your industry?

Learn as much as you can, grow your network and grind it out in the first few years of your career.

Why did you pursue a career in your industry? What do you like most about it?

I always wanted to do something with business management and numbers. I knew everyone in business would need an accountant so I chose accounting for job security and growth potential. I like the advisory aspect of the business and learning about different industries.

Is there a specific niche you focus on?

I work across many industries. I like to work on real estate management and transactions.

What is the biggest lesson you've learned so far in your career?

Always go the extra mile to take care of a client. The little things go a long way.

What is your ultimate career goal?

Continue to grow the firm, keep all employees motivated and excited to come to work, and all of our clients are successful.

Who are your ideal clients? Where can they find you? (ie. Social, website, etc.)

We do not have an ideal client, we can fit the needs of most businesses and non-profits. Clients can find me through our website, connect with me on Linked In or word of mouth.

What are three things you like to do in your free time?

Spend time with my family and two dogs, hiking around New England and fishing.