After two decades in the corporate world, including a 13-year run at Foxtel. Shaun Rafferty knew he was ready for something different. He wasn’t just looking for a new job. He wanted flexibility, ownership, and the satisfaction of building something for himself.
Now, as a First Class Accounts franchisee, Shaun is growing his own bookkeeping business, spending more time with his family, and occasionally running client meetings from the middle of Sydney Harbour.
Keep reading to find out how he made the switch, the lessons he’s learned, and the advice he’d give to anyone considering the same leap.
From KPMG to Foxtel: The beginning
Shaun’s career started traditionally at KPMG, followed by finance roles across the UK and Ireland. After returning to Australia, he held senior positions at Wilson Parking and eventually Foxtel, where he spent over a decade working in group finance and advertising divisions.
“I worked my way up through various finance roles at Foxtel, and I really enjoyed my time there.”
When his role was made redundant during a restructure, Shaun dipped his toes into the startup world with a few former colleagues.
“I liked that growth mindset, coming into work and feeling like you’re making a difference every day.”
But when those ventures didn’t continue, Shaun found himself at a crossroads.
A surprising spark
He came across an ad for First Class Accounts while considering what to do next.
“At first, I thought it might be something I could do short-term to earn a bit of income while I figured out my next move.”
After speaking with the team, Shaun realised the franchise was more than just a stopgap. It was a long-term opportunity to be his own boss, with support.
“I liked that it was your own business, but you’ve also got the backing of a national brand, systems, training, and a whole network of people willing to share their time and experience.”
He took the leap. And hasn’t looked back.
Early challenges and support
Starting any new business comes with a learning curve, and for Shaun, the first few months were intense.
“There’s just so much thrown at you. Choosing your tech stack, starting your Cert IV, completing First Class training, it was a lot to take in.”
“Then there’s the marketing, selling yourself, setting up your systems. It can feel overwhelming.”
But Shaun quickly tapped into the support available to franchisees from cohort groups to training events.
“We had a newbies group, a few of us who joined around the same time. We catch up regularly and share ideas.”
“And the national workshops and conferences First Class runs… they remind you that you’re not alone.”
Milestones and momentum
A major turning point came early when Shaun landed a significant client that provided a steady base income.
“It took a lot of the financial pressure off. I had a few days with that client and a few days to go out and find others.”
This gave Shaun time to focus on long-term growth, including hiring a junior resource in the Philippines to help manage client work and scale sustainably.
“I’ve been lucky to lean on my network of friends and former colleagues, but I’m also learning a lot about digital marketing to keep growing.”
Confidence through community
Looking back, Shaun is clear that he wouldn’t have taken this path without the structure of a franchise.
“I wouldn’t have had the confidence to do this on my own. The relationships FCA has with training providers, the technical support, the knowledge sharing, that’s what makes the difference.”
“If I come across a tricky situation or an unfamiliar industry, I know there’s someone in the network I can call.”
A new kind of work-life balance
After years of late nights and board meetings, Shaun is building a business that fits his life, not the other way around.
“I’ve got a young son, so being able to take time off for school events or carnivals and catch up later, that flexibility is huge for me.”
He’s even coined his own tradition:
“I’ve got a boat on Sydney Harbour and I’m trying to kick off Working from the Water Wednesdays, taking the laptop out and making that my office for the day.”
“It’s something you just can’t do in the corporate world.”
Advice for new business owners
Shaun has one big message for anyone starting out: you don’t need to have it all figured out on day one.
“Take a breath. There’s a lot of information in the beginning and it’s all good, but it’s okay to take your time.”
“You’ll find your groove. And the support and camaraderie in the First Class network will help you get there.”
Looking ahead
After unwinding from his early large client, Shaun is now onboarding a new major client and expanding his base of smaller businesses.
“I’m excited about the next chapter, training more team members, taking on more clients, and growing steadily.”
“It’s been a great first year, and I’m really enjoying the ride.”
Inspired by Shaun’s story?
You don’t need to choose between flexibility and success. With First Class Accounts, you can build a bookkeeping business that suits your goals with the support of Australia’s largest bookkeeping franchise.
Join First Class Accounts and benefit from:
- Brand Recognition
- Structured Training & Certification
- Community & Peer Support
- Flexible Work & Lifestyle Options
- A Proven Business Model to Back You
