A Day in the Life at Calibre CPA Group-
William Ball, Firm Administrator
What is your title? Describe what you do.
Firm Administrator. I manage Calibre’s administrative operations of the firm, supervision, work standardization, and coordination of administrative personnel across all of Calibre’s offices. I collaborate closely with Calibre’s management committee on various initiatives to execute effective and efficient operations including overseeing and managing the budget, financial reporting, executing the strategic plan, and maintaining and continuously improving firm infrastructure.
Why did you get into the accounting/audit industry?
After spending nearly 30 years in the legal services industry, I decided to enter the accounting industry to not only learn a new field but to also bring my years of professional services experience to Calibre to help improve and maximize the firm’s operations.
What are three things you do every day? Do you have any morning “rituals”?
My morning rituals include reviewing and ordering my tasks and priorities for the day and reading the news. I also walk through the office daily to ensure that it is in good order and to say hello to individuals.
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of your job?
The most rewarding parts of my job are collaborating with Calibre’s leadership, partners, and my colleagues to help the firm navigate and solve business problems and improve the firm’s internal operations. I also find it rewarding to mentor and empower individuals to grow and develop in their careers. The most challenging aspect of my job is navigating and overcoming resistance to change.
What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue a role like yours? Are there specific character traits or skills/certifications they should possess?
A Firm Administrator wears many hats that includes managing operations and facilities, overseeing HR, budgeting, risk management, and ensuring compliance with government regulations. Someone looking to pursue this role should seek opportunities for experience in administration, project management, or operations within professional services settings. They should also stay informed about the trends and challenges facing professional services firms, whether in law, accounting, or consulting. The character traits of a strong firm administrator includes an ability to motivate and guide teams, adaptability, problem solving ability, forward thinking (an ability to see around corners), strategic thinking, superb communication and interpersonal skills, financial acumen, client-focused mindset, organizational skills, attention to detail, ethical judgment, and tech savvy.
What do you like best about Calibre CPA group?
Calibre’s leadership is approachable and committed to innovation and empower their teams to bring forth and implement new ideas and technology. I also enjoy the supportive culture of Calibre where colleagues help each other and celebrate successes of projects and initiatives that have a positive impact on our clients, operations and community.
