Historically accountants and operations within a business have a tendency to clash. I come from both a marketing and CPA background and see running a business more like playing chess. Wise business decisions entail making the best move when considering what tools you have at your disposal while being aware of both what opportunities are opening up and what dangers you need to avoid. I see a CPA's role as aiming to ensure that the correct resources are available to grab those opportunities when they occur and measuring how effective the business was in obtaining its objectives. That principle applies whether you are a start-up or have been in business for a long time. The financials have to be more than just numbers...they have to give you guidance on how to succeed. I endeavor to help my clients make good business decisions that can also save them taxes.