Starting a Small Business/Expert Profile

Expertise

I can answer all type of questions concerning small businesses, especially those dealing with business decision-making, tax-saving considerations, tax-saving strategies, financing, writing business plans, accounting matters, budgeting, etc. I would love to provide people suggestions on how to prevent and detect fraud so that owners start by being proactive in protecting their wealth since the very beginning of their entrepreneurial affairs. I can answer questions to both English and Spanish population. I am very committed to keep my standards up today so I know many resources where I can direct those seeking advice.

Experience in the area

As financial consultant I have advised all type of private companies in two countries and I have seen their growth and success over time. I worked for more than ten years in one of the largest banks in Colombia where I occupied different positions of increasing responsibility: head of the credit department, head of the international trade dept, analyst of the strategic planning dept. Working for a US CPA firm I was in charge of different engagements for start-up businesses, etc.

Organizations

AICPA (American Association of Certified Public Accountants), ACFE (Association of Certified Fraud Examiners), ACFEI (American College of Forensic Examiners, USF Alumni.

Education/Credentials

Bachelors of Sciences in Business Administration – Accounting University of South Florida USF – Tampa Florida Catholic University – Colombia Title earned: Specialist in Tax and Customs Central Foundation University – Colombia Title earned: Certified Public Accountant. On August, 2006 I passed all four sections of the Certified Fraud Exam which tests for proficiency in the following areas: Criminology and Ethics, Financial Transactions, Legal Elements of Fraud, and Fraud Investigation.

Awards and Honors

As employee of Forensic Technology Inc. a Canadian company with locations and sites worldwide, I was the winner of the 2005 President's award in the category of Cost Savings through Efficiency or Innovation granted in January 2006 in Montreal, Canada.

Past/Present Clients

I have provided advice to all kind of companies: manufacturing, service, consulting, non for profit organizations, etc.

What do you like about this subject?

I love challenges; being a business-owner is a huge one with many rewards for those who reach success. Helping people to achieve their dreams and generate resources is a powerful drive for me.

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

I expect to enhance my knowledge through my assistance to those seeking advice. I want to see that my contribution is part of their success.

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

Many believe that starting a business is a simple decision. It implies discipline, efforts, resources, and many hours of sleeplessness. Proactive steps must be taken to minimize the inherent risk of failure: proper accounting records, procedures in place, permanent supervision if you have employees regardless of the level of trust that you place on them; before all, integrity and compliance.

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

The decision of starting a business is not driven by unemployment. This is driven by a strong desire to accomplish goals, to measure or challenge our capabilities, and to be financially independent in the long run.