Taking risks in business is never easy. But for David Boyar, CEO of ChangeGPS, betting on himself and his vision has been the key to success. At the recent Access All Areas event in Melbourne, David reflected on his journey, from launching ChangeGPS to integrating it with the Access Group. He shared insights on the evolving role of accountants, the importance of taking control of your career, and what the future holds for accounting technology. So, what can accounting firms learn from David’s experience? Let’s dive in.
Believing in big ideas is just the start
David is no stranger to ambitious goals. In fact, Access All Areas was just an idea at first, a conversation between colleagues. But as David puts it, “there is nothing quite like aiming at something new and ambitious and pulling it off.” The challenge? Execution.“I never really struggled with big ideas. This is actually the fourth time I’ve had a crack at doing an event like this,” he shared. That’s a lesson for any accountant looking to innovate. Whether it’s launching a new advisory service, implementing new technology, or scaling a firm, success isn’t just about the idea, it’s about having the right people, the right process, and the determination to make it happen.
Why accounting is harder than ever
A staggering68% of accountantssay their job is harder now than when they started their careers. But why? For David, the biggest shift has been the role accountants play in their clients’ lives. While accountants have always offered advice, the framework for doing so has evolved. Clients now expect deeper insights, proactive guidance, and a more strategic approach, something that requires both technical skills and strong client relationships.
Taking control of your career
David’s journey hasn’t been without risk. He left a stable role at National Australia Bank to become a virtual CFO. Then, he took another leap by starting his own firm. Later, he made the tough call to sell part of that business and join ChangeGPS. At every stage, he backed himself and his vision.“I think having a bit of belief in your own ability, surrounding yourself with people that say, ‘yeah, you can go for this,’ and knowing you’ll find a way through it, doesn’t really matter what the change is,” he said.His advice for accountants? Own your decisions.“Unless you take control of what’s happening to you, it’s never going to get better,” he said. Whether you're an employee frustrated with your manager, a partner questioning the direction of your firm, or a business owner navigating tough decisions, the key is to stop blaming external factors and start making choices that shape your future.
The power of community in accounting
One of the standout moments at Access All Areas was the energy in the room. Unlike the usual accounting conference, this event was loud, dynamic, and buzzing with conversation. And that’s exactly the point.“Part of Access All Areas was about bringing these big communities together and saying, ‘Hey, let’s have a chat, be responsible, and take action for what you want to do next in your practice and in your life,’” David explained.Accounting can feel isolating, especially for firm owners dealing with unique challenges. But as David pointed out, “It’s very, very rare in anyone’s career that they need to deal with something that no one else has ever dealt with before.” The key? Surround yourself with the right people. Seek out mentors, industry groups, and events where you can learn from those who’ve been through similar situations.
David Boyar’s story is a reminder that success in accounting, and business, isn’t about playing it safe. It’s about taking calculated risks, surrounding yourself with the right people, and staying focused on the long game. So, what’s the next big bet you need to make in your firm?
