I AM THE VSCPA

TRUSTED ADVISOR >> Two minutes with Ali Gunbeyi, CPA

Ali Gunbeyi, CPA, is a shareholder at Jones CPA Group in Norfolk. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in economics from Istanbul University, Turkey, and his master’s in business administration from Old Dominion University. He has served on the VSCPA’s GARY THOMSON, CPA >> Management of an Accounting Practice Task Extending CPAs’ influence to Force and was recently installed as a member the government arena. of the VSCPA Board of Directors.

I AM PASSIONATE ABOUT… Supporting local businesses. It is a great feeling to see your neighbor or someone in your community taking a risk and succeeding in the business world. They are the true catalysts and unsung heroes of our economy.

PEOPLE DON’T KNOW THIS, BUT… I was a graduate teaching assistant at Old Dominion University while pursuing my MBA degree. I carried 2–4 classes every semester for several semesters. I don’t think I will ever do that again, but it was a great experience.

IF I WEREN’T AN ACCOUNTANT, I WOULD BE… An engineer or a youth soccer coach. I love the analytical and problem-solving aspects of engineering. At the same time, coaching and mentoring young athletes is so rewarding — you can show these young minds the value of hard work and discipline while having fun and enjoying the sport.

MY ADVICE TO FELLOW CPAs IS… Trust in your abilities to lead in business matters other than the traditional accounting and tax areas. We are trained to be problem solvers and critical thinkers and we can apply these traits to everyday business decisions. We tend to know more than the debits and credits and we can truly help our clients with their strategic direction and long-term planning.

I NEVER LEAVE HOME WITHOUT… Kissing my wife. I am very fortunate to have a wonderful family and strong support system.

I WISH CPAs KNEW… The value and expertise they bring to the table. After all, studies show we are the most trusted advisors.

I’M A CPA BECAUSE… I enjoy helping individuals and businesses with their everyday challenges. n