Building a Thriving Accountancy Practice with TaxAssist Accountants
When Don O'Connell decided to leave the world of multinational finance, he wanted more than just a career change - he wanted to build a business of his own with the right support behind him. Today, Don operates two successful TaxAssist Accountants practices in Lucan Village and Blanchardstown Village, serving more than 350 clients across a wide range of industries.
“What I enjoy most about working with TaxAssist is the client interaction. Literally seeing clients starting businesses, helping them with business plans, and then growing that business," said Don.
From Corporate Career to Business Ownership
Before joining TaxAssist Accountants, Don spent years working in multinational companies. Although the experience gave him a strong commercial background, he was looking for the opportunity to create something for himself.
In 2013, he launched his first TaxAssist Accountants practice in Lucan Village. With the support of the franchise network and a proven business model, the practice steadily grew. By 2017, Don had expanded and opened a second office in Blanchardstown Village.
Starting with no existing client base, Don has since built a portfolio of more than 350 clients.
“When I initially started, it was to reduce the risks and increase my chances of having a successful business. That’s definitely proven the case for TaxAssist.”
Supporting a Diverse Range of Clients
One of the aspects Don enjoys most about the business is the variety of clients he works with every day.
His practice supports:
- Local retail businesses
- Computer programmers
- Haulage companies
- Start-ups and growing SMEs
- Payroll and VAT clients across multiple sectors
This diverse client mix has helped create a resilient and sustainable business model. “It’s a very mixed portfolio of clients. If one side of industry declines, there’s another area that’s actually growing as well.” The variety also means no two days are the same. “That’s what keeps it very interesting because you’re coming up with different issues and different scenarios with each client.”
The Value of the TaxAssist Brand and Marketing Support
For many accountants considering business ownership, marketing and lead generation can feel overwhelming. Don says the national TaxAssist branding and marketing support has been a major advantage. The TaxAssist network’s nationwide advertising campaigns, brand visibility and local marketing activity help generate regular enquiries for franchisees. “Most of my leads come in from the office. The whole marketing and branding that they do - whether it’s a nationwide radio campaign or television campaign - that all generates leads and interest. It’s a big help because it means I don’t have to focus so much on sales and marketing.”
Franchise Support Every Step of the Way
Don also highlights the ongoing support provided by the TaxAssist team as a key reason for his success. From launch through to expansion, he says the guidance and assistance available to franchisees helps reduce the challenges of starting and growing a business independently.
“The support and assistance from TaxAssist is great in terms of getting up and running and helping you - holding your hand basically through the journey - is really tremendous.”