MYCPE ONE Excellence Award: Building an International Team to Better Serve Our Clients

In October 2023, my journey into outsourcing began.

Like many small and medium-sized accounting firms, I faced the reality of a labor shortage. 

Finding skilled professionals in the United States had become increasingly difficult, and the talent pipeline was no longer as robust as it once was. The pandemic only amplified these challenges, slowing educational progress and further shrinking the available workforce.

I knew that if we wanted to continue delivering exceptional service to our clients, we needed to think differently about how we structured our team. That’s when we decided to embrace international outsourcing, a decision that has since transformed our business.

The Beginning of an International Team

While MOD Ventures had been international for years, we had one accounting clerk based in Italy, this was the first time we integrated a team in India. Initially, we partnered with a service provider that wasn’t the right fit. The inconsistency in staffing and knowledge transfer created inefficiencies, and it became clear we needed a different approach. So, we shifted gears, seeking a model that aligned more closely with our values and expectations.

Today, our outsourcing model focuses on building a dedicated team. Each team member is treated as an integral part of MOD Ventures. They work exclusively on our accounts and are trained to the same standards as our U.S.-based staff. We share our values with them, ensuring everyone, regardless of location understands our mission to support small businesses.

This consistency has made a world of difference, enabling us to deliver the level of service our clients deserve while expanding our capacity to take on more work.

How It Works Day-to-Day

Our international team’s schedule complements our operations. Their workday starts much earlier than ours, which means by the time we log in around 10 a.m., a significant amount of work has already been completed. This almost 24-hour operational cycle has been particularly beneficial during busy periods, like tax season. 

Our U.S.-based controllers, who handle the majority of client communication, review the completed work, ensure quality, and address any necessary updates. This collaborative workflow allows us to remain responsive to our clients while efficiently managing the increased demands of a growing firm.

Why Outsourcing Was the Right Choice

The decision to outsource wasn’t just about addressing a labor shortage, it was about positioning MOD Ventures for sustainable growth. Smaller firms like ours can now leverage strategies that were once reserved for larger organizations, allowing us to remain competitive in an evolving industry. 

The key, however, lies in choosing the right partners. We worked with providers that came highly recommended by larger firms with established outsourcing practices, which helped build my confidence in the process. These partnerships have been essential, offering vetted talent and ensuring a seamless integration into our operations.

The benefits have been undeniable. Our controllers now have the bandwidth to focus on higher-value tasks, enhancing both their professional growth and our client experience. The added support has also enabled us to maintain the high standards our clients expect, even as we scale. By outsourcing strategically, we’ve created a foundation for long-term success, for both our team and the businesses we serve.

Recognition and What It Means to Me

Recently, I was honored with an award for our innovative approach to outsourcing. While the recognition is meaningful, it’s not the reason we embarked on this journey. For me, this acknowledgment validates that we’re on the right track, embracing forward-thinking strategies that align with the future of accounting. It shows that our commitment to delivering exceptional service while supporting small businesses is being recognized beyond our immediate circle.

That said, the true reward lies in seeing the impact of our work. At MOD Ventures, our mission has always been about more than numbers. We aim to help small businesses thrive, whether it’s enabling an owner to put their kids through college, retire comfortably, or sell their business successfully.

Outsourcing has allowed us to continue delivering on that promise, ensuring we have the resources to guide our clients toward their goals.

Looking Ahead

I’m excited about what’s to come. The accounting industry is evolving rapidly, and staying on the cutting edge is essential to sustaining growth. By adopting strategies like outsourcing, we’re not just adapting to change, we’re embracing it. This journey has taught me that with the right partners, processes, and vision, small firms like ours can achieve remarkable things.

Ultimately, this isn’t about accolades or recognition, it’s about impact. At MOD Ventures, we’re committed to empowering small businesses, and I’m grateful to lead a team that shares that vision. Together, we’re building something that’s not only sustainable but meaningful for us and for the clients we serve.

If you’re ready to start making smarter, more confident decisions for your business, reach out to the Mod Ventures team today for a consultation. The right support and resources can turn data into your business’s most valuable asset.