Shashi Mirpuri

Shashi Mirpuri, 38, is a tax principal at Squar Milner, working for individual and corporate clients in the technology, retail and franchise, manufacturing and distribution and apparel industries. He previously worked in Arthur Anderson’s Los Angeles federal tax practice, where he gained experience in federal and state tax compliance, tax outsourcing, tax planning and research and analysis. TITLE: Tax Principal FIRM: Squar Milner Peterson Miranda & Williamson, Encino SPECIALTY: Income tax HOBBIES: Dining, fitness and attending sports events Question: Why accounting? Answer: Not sure what the trigger was that made me want to start take accounting courses but once I did, I never looked back. I graduated from California State University – Northridge for my undergrad in accounting and ultimately went back to CSUN for my master’s degree in taxation. I enjoy the challenges and constant learning that comes from working in public accounting. Your role in the firm? I’m known for providing quality service and expertise to my clients. I am spearheading the recruiting efforts at CSUN. I also enjoy mentoring our future leaders and developing continuing education courses to enhance the technical side of our office. I have also become a leader in the Tax Group dealing with tax provisions on both public and private companies. What defines “star accountants”? Firms and clients are looking for more than just a CPA; they are looking for a partner, a trusted advisor. Many of my clients have been with me for years, which I think speaks volumes for the relationships I try to build with them. Not only are they happy with the technical skills but they are also satisfied with the level of service they are getting. I would say my biggest “star skill” would be my communication. Most of my clients can get a hold of me 24/7 (whether through email or phone) and I try to be there for them no matter what. Time management: Days in public accounting can vary significantly, depending on whether it’s tax season or not. Generally, I am either on the phone, in meetings or out with a client. I also spend a fair amount of time networking and I am part of various networking groups. Obviously, when things need to get done I am in the office working with my team. Best part of your job: Just the interaction with my clients. They become more than just clients and I am happy to call some of them friends. They know what’s going on in my life and vice versa. When you have that type of relationship with your clients, you really try and go the extra mile for them. I pride myself in thinking outside the box, being creative and finding opportunities to minimize their liability and resolve issues. Plus, I love working on different types of clients – size, industries, public/private, etc. These are the main reasons why I have chosen to stay in public accounting versus going private. Biggest misconception about accounting? The biggest misconception is that we like being at the office, tied to our chairs, doing math! That we don’t have personalities and we don’t like interacting with clients. Personally, this is farthest from the truth. I love socializing and getting together with clients, prospective clients and other service providers. I would rather be out at a client’s site or networking than in the office. Your personality at work: I am not your typical quiet and shy accountant. In fact, I’m the complete opposite. I’m vocal, outgoing and interactive. I think I am pretty easy going and have no problem building relationships with colleagues or clients. I also am a good listener and I try to understand the client’s objectives and pain points. How should the profession change? I would like to see us adapt to the technological world we now live in. Whether that’s using technology to drive processes or finding easier and more efficient ways to prepare tax returns, technology should be the backbone behind everything that we do. We have definitely made some headway since I first started 17 years ago, but I think we have a way to go. Favorite out-of-the-office activities? I love spending time with my wife and kids. Both of my boys, ages 6 and 8, are involved in basketball so we love attending their practices and games. Personally, I love watching sports and working out when I can. I also think of myself as a “foodie” and love trying new restaurants. Career advice: No matter what profession you choose, you have to put in the time to succeed and the accounting profession is no different. Take initiative and ownership of your career path and if you are passionate about what you do, the sky’s the limit. Life during tax season: Intense and stressful. Hours ramp up pretty quickly and working 60 to 70 hours per week is common. Public accounting is definitely not made for everyone. – Helen Floersh