Senior Manager Spotlight: Get to Know Jim Bellor
Jim Bellor, CPA, was recently promoted to Senior Manager. Let’s learn about Jim and his perspective on his career, working with clients, and what it takes to be successful in public accounting.
What are your roles in the firm?
I specialize in estate & trusts, individual tax planning and preparation, and family business consulting. By providing personalized solutions, I strive to create tailored estate plans, optimize tax strategies, and offer guidance on succession planning and financial management for businesses and individuals. I am passionate about staying updated on industry trends and regulations so that I can deliver the best solutions to my clients to help them meet their goals.
Describe your career path.
I graduated from Northwood University in May of 2013. Shortly after, I started my career working for a financial firm as a tax specialist. I worked for a few other companies before finding Yeo & Yeo in October 2020. Since then, I have really enjoyed getting to know our clients and attending events in the Midland community, including those hosted by the Midland Young Professionals and the Midland Business Alliance.
What do you enjoy most about your career?
I enjoy the value-added skillset a CPA brings to the table. I am passionate about being a trusted advisor, working closely with individuals from diverse backgrounds to address their unique needs. I also enjoy building strong relationships with my clients.
What’s the biggest factor that has helped you be successful?
On the day-to-day, calendar management has been key for me. In this profession, it can be easy to get caught up in busy season, but I have learned to set time aside on my calendar for me and my family. That has really helped me maintain a good work-life balance. Looking at the bigger picture, I have always been driven to put my best foot forward and give my all in everything I do. Whether at home or work, I want to give 100 percent and be the best version of myself I can be. That mindset has really helped me in my career throughout the years.
What do you enjoy most about working with clients?
Whether it is a long-term client relationship or a new business owner, seeing businesses grow and clients use your recommendations to meet their goals is very rewarding.
When did you know you wanted to be a CPA, and why did you gravitate toward this profession?
I knew I wanted to become a CPA when I took my first accounting class in the spring of 2010. Not only did I do well, but I really enjoyed it. One class and that was it. I knew I wanted to be an accountant. I’m really thankful that I discovered my passion so early on.
What advice do you have for those considering a career in public accounting?
Talk to your professors and get their insight on public accounting and their experiences. See if they have any connections with accounting firms in your area and start building a network with people at those firms. Apply for internships to gain first-hand experience. Chances are, if you enjoy your internship, you will enjoy a career in accounting. I also recommend getting the CPA exam out of the way as soon as possible.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of accounting?
I enjoy the outdoors – camping, golfing, and doing any kind of outdoor activity. Especially in Michigan, where the summers are short, I always try to make the most out of the season by getting outside as much as possible.