Aug 26 August Sax Spotlight: Robert Syme and Deborah Diamond
In this month’s Sax Spotlight, we highlight the work ethic and dedication of Senior Account Service Associate, Deborah Diamond, and Senior Associate, Robert Syme.
Robert Syme
This month, we are proud to shine our Sax Spotlight on Senior Associate, Robert Syme. Rob was hired as an Associate in November of 2017. Since then, Rob was promoted to Senior Associate in November of 2019 due to his strong work ethic and dedication to the firm and client service. He currently works closely with the firm’s Manufacturing & Distribution Practice and looks forward to continuing to grow and learn from the leaders of the firm.
READ ON TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ROBERT IN OUR Q&A:
What college did you attend? What was your major?
I attended Ramapo College where I majored in Accounting.
When did you start working at Sax?
I began my career as a Tax Intern at The Hunter Group in 2017 and was hired as a full-time associate after the merger with Sax in November of that same year.
What is your current title? Recent promotions?
I was promoted to Senior A&A Associate in 2019.
What are your day-to-day responsibilities at Sax? What do you specialize in?
Daily, I complete auditing work for Sax’s Manufacturing & Distribution clients as well as 401(k)s.
What are a few things you have learned at Sax?
I have learned the value of working in a team setting to help facilitate knowledge transfer as well as the benefits of having a hands-on learning environment to better understand concepts.
Explain some of your biggest achievements while working at Sax.
Currently, my biggest achievement in my career was being promoted to Senior Associate.
Do you have a vision or goal for your career?
I would like to learn more about our Manufacturing & Distribution and Real Estate niches to better understand the ins and outs of those industries and gain expertise to help benefit the clients I serve. I would also like to earn my CPA license within the next few years.
What volunteer work and/or charities do you participate in?
I have volunteered for Paterson Habitat for Humanity building homes for Paterson families in need as well as the Sax 4 Miler benefitting St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital.
Are there any other interesting facts about you outside of your work life?
Every day, I enjoy going on a morning run. I am also a big sports fan and love to follow the New York Yankees and Giants. I also serve as the commissioner of the Sax B-League Fantasy Football League.
Deborah Diamond
Please join us in shining our Sax Spotlight on Senior Account Service Associate, Deborah Diamond. Debbie has been with the firm for 19 years and has gained an extensive amount of knowledge regarding client service and tax return preparation. Daily, Debbie is interacting with clients and responding to client inquiries to ensure they are receiving the best service possible.
READ ON TO LEARN MORE ABOUT DEBORAH IN OUR Q&A:
What college did you attend? What was your major?
I attended Bergen County Community College where I majored in Accounting.
When did you start working at Sax?
I began working at Sax on August 13, 2001 and recently celebrated my 19th year of working at the firm.
What is your current title? Recent promotions?
I was a Paraprofessional and was recently promoted to Senior Account Service Associate.
What are your day-to-day responsibilities at Sax? What do you specialize in?
I am constantly interacting with clients and responding to client inquiries. I also maintain clients’ books using various software programs, prepare corporate and personal tax returns, prepare monthly and quarterly sales tax for several states, and prepare quarterly and annual payroll tax returns.
What are a few things you have learned here at Sax?
I have acquired the skills and knowledge to prepare both corporate and personal tax returns.
Explain some of your biggest achievements while working at Sax.
One of my biggest achievements is having the opportunity to work on monthly engagements with a foreign client with strict deadlines and foreign currency exchange rates. This opportunity has allowed me to step outside my comfort zone and gain valuable skills that I can use throughout my career.
Explain some of your biggest achievements in life.
One of my biggest achievements was being able to help raise my stepdaughter.
Do you frequently speak at events or publish articles to demonstrate expertise?
I am frequently asked to do QuickBooks trainings for new client engagements.
What volunteer work and/or charities do you participate in?
I participate in a few philanthropic events throughout the year and I am an active member in the firm’s P.O.W.E.R. Group which focuses on empowering our female team members.
Are there any other interesting facts about you outside of your work life?
When I am not working, I love to spend time with my friends and family.
