From Corporate Finance to Owning a Bookkeeping Franchise

After over 25 years in corporate finance, Jana Aldhaibi, owner of First Class Accounts – Bass Hill, found herself at a crossroads. As the National Finance Officer for a Sydneybased organisation, she excelled in a role where everything from BAS to payroll compliance ran under her meticulous watch.

But her career took an unexpected turn when a restructure led to redundancy. Reflecting on this moment, Jana said, “So I was it for that company. Then what happened was that we had a restructure of the finance department. They had another accountant come in—too many accountants.”

Faced with the loss of a job she had devoted herself to, Jana decided she no longer wanted to work for others. She said, “You give your heart and soul, and then things happen—they let you go. I didn’t want to work for anyone anymore.”

Determined to find a new path, she discovered First Class Accounts, a bookkeeping franchise that offered her the support and structure needed for business ownership. Jana shared, “I wasn’t confident going out on my own totally, so I found First Class Accounts, and they’ve been wonderful. This is now for me.”

Challenges of Starting from Scratch

Launching her franchise in June 2023 was exciting. Within her first week of training, Jana received an unexpected call from a former software consultant. “I started the training, and a week in, I got a call about my first client—it was a consultant that worked with my old workplace!”

That initial win gave her a boost, but she quickly realised that consistent client acquisition would be the key challenge – “The challenge is finding your clients and keeping them.”

Undeterred, Jana leaned on her networking skills. She approached a local tax agent with her services, turning a cold introduction into a fruitful relationship. “I made the decision to go there because I wanted business from him. So I went and took my papers for a tax return, and he looked at me and said, ‘Why are you here?'” The tax agent was impressed with her professionalism and began referring clients to her.

These early successes laid the foundation for her business, but Jana’s reputation as a problem-solver set her apart. “I get a lot of rescue jobs. Rescue jobs are when an account comes to me, and it’s an absolute mess. I clean the account up, balance everything, and make sure it’s ready for the tax agent.”

Delivering Tangible Results for Clients

Jana’s adaptability and client-focused mindset have made her a trusted partner for businesses in her community. One of her most rewarding projects was with a home installation business struggling with disorganised finances and poor cash flow.

“I actually go to him in person because he couldn’t go totally online. It’s rewarding to see him get what he needed, where he wasn’t before.” Another achievement was streamlining payroll for a childcare client.

Thanks to the systems Jana implemented, what used to take an entire day now takes just 30 minutes.

Confidence Through Business Ownership

Starting her own business was a leap into the unknown. Jana candidly recalls the fear she felt after losing her corporate role. “When I took redundancy, I was worried—what will happen? Will this work? Will I find clients?”

But with every milestone, her confidence grew. “I’m really quite surprised how easy it was to get where I am today.”

She credits much of her growth to learning and networking, including attending an overseas conference where she gained valuable insights. “I went to a conference overseas, and I was like a sponge—talk to people, listen to their advice, and do what’s right for you.” This openness to learning has been instrumental in shaping her as a business owner.

Ditch One-Size-Fits-All Approach

Jana believes success comes from finding your path rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach. “Not everything that you hear from other people will be right for you—find what works for you.”

She encourages aspiring business owners to network, seek advice, and remain adaptable, as these strategies have been central to her journey.

Scaling for Success: The Value of a Bookkeeper for Small Businesses

Looking ahead, Jana is focused on growth. Her immediate goals include surpassing her former corporate salary and hiring a full-time employee to support her expanding client base.

“My goal is to surpass the salary I was earning full-time. I’d like to have a full-time employee working with me.” Her vision remains rooted in providing exceptional service to her clients.

“I just want to grow and be the best I can for my clients.”

Jana Aldhaibi’s transition from corporate finance to owning First Class Accounts – Bass Hill is an inspiring story of resilience, adaptability, and determination.