VHL Business & Tax Solutions is humbled to be recognised and proud to be named the winner of the Australian Accounting Awards 2024 for the Diversity and Inclusion Program/Initiative of the Year! 🏆 As an accomplished and dedicated accountant, Nina Hu has made significant strides in the industry through her unwavering commitment to excellence and her proactive approach to client service.
How did you start down this career path?
My journey into the accounting industry started all the way back in 2001. I pursued a Bachelor in Commerce and a Master of Accounting, where I discovered a passion for mathematics and strategic thinking. What attracted me to the industry is not only the intellectual challenge in this field but also the satisfaction and rewarding experience of seeing the appreciation and impact of my work. Connecting with clients and finding the best solutions for their financial problems and business goals has always been immensely fulfilling. The ability to build valuable connections and make a tangible difference in their lives and businesses has kept me motivated and driven me throughout my career.
What inspires you in your role/industry? Why?
The accounting industry is dynamic and ever-evolving, and what inspires me most is the opportunity to continuously learn and grow. I am driven by the challenge of staying ahead in an industry that is constantly influenced by regulatory changes, technological advancements, and economic fluctuations. Additionally, I find great satisfaction in helping clients navigate their financial challenges and achieve their business goals. The trust that clients place in us to manage their financial well-being is a powerful motivator. It pushes me to deliver the best possible service and to continually improve my skills and knowledge.
What's your approach to customer service that separates you from the rest?
My approach to customer service is centred around building trust-worthy and long-lasting relationships with clients. Instead of merely crunching numbers, I aim to build trusted advisor relationships with my clients through proactive and solutions-based strategies.
Tax time can be incredibly stressful for individuals and businesses alike. Often, clients feel navigating through numbers and dealing with uncertain tax returns can be daunting.My approach is to hence alleviate this stress by providing proactive education and awareness. By sharing knowledge with clients, I aim to empower them to navigate tax time with confidence and ease. Clarity and simplification of tax returns are paramount, not only for compliance but also for preparing clients for future obligations.
I believe that understanding each client’s unique needs and goals is crucial to providing tailored solutions. I prioritise open and transparent communication, ensuring that clients are always informed and confident in the decisions we make together. By offering guidance and advice in a simple and relatable manner, I strive to act as more than just their accountant but as someone they can rely on and confide in.
How do you innovate and stay ahead of industry trends?
Innovation and staying ahead of industry trends require a proactive approach to professional development and a keen eye on the future. I actively participate in industry conferences, seminars, and webinars to stay informed about the latest developments. Additionally, I am a member of several professional accounting associations, which provide access to a wealth of resources and networking opportunities. I also invest in the latest accounting software and technology, which allows me to offer clients more efficient and accurate services. By leveraging data analytics and automation, I can provide deeper insights and streamline processes, ultimately enhancing the value I deliver to clients.
What is the toughest challenge you've faced in your role? How did you overcome it?
The toughest challenge I’ve faced in my role has been managing time and balancing my work life between my professional responsibilities as an accountant and my personal roles as a wife, mother, daughter, and friend. As my career has advanced, the responsibilities have increased, and so have the expectations and demands from clients, leaving limited time for my personal life.
To overcome this, our firm places immense pride in work-life balance initiatives, promoting a healthy balance between work and personal life. We believe this is not only crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle but also essential for developing as a holistic professional. By balancing my roles effectively, I can communicate not only as an accountant but also as a member of the community with life experiences, allowing me to connect meaningfully with clients and build trustworthy, long-lasting relationships.
Through these efforts, I have managed to achieve a balance that allows me to meet professional demands while fulfilling personal commitments, making me a more effective and empathetic accountant.
What are some of your goals for the next 5 years?
Over the next five years, my primary goal is to further establish myself as a thought leader in the accounting industry. I plan to achieve this by contributing to industry publications, speaking at conferences, and continuing to provide exceptional service to my clients. Additionally, I aim to expand our firm’s services to include more advisory roles, helping clients with strategic planning, risk management, and business growth strategies. I am also committed to mentoring the next generation of accountants, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement within our firm.
By remaining dedicated to professional growth, innovation, and client service, I am confident that I will continue to make a positive impact in the accounting industry and achieve my long-term goals.
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