Jaz Grewal joined the TaxAssist network in February 2022 at just 25 years old. Four years on, he has built a thriving accountancy practice from scratch, supporting more than 500 clients.
Having qualified as an ICAEW Chartered Accountant through a Big Four audit training contract, Jaz had gained valuable experience working with large organisations - but his ambition was always to build his own successful business.
We spoke to Jaz about his background, why he chose franchising and how he has grown his TaxAssist practice in Leicester.
“I studied finance at university and then completed a training contract with a Big Four firm as an auditor, where I gained my ACA qualification. Whilst I learnt a lot during my career, my goal was always to run my own business and use my skills to make a direct difference to small businesses in my local community,” said Jaz.
“Growing up, I worked within a small family business and saw first-hand the challenges and rewards that come with being an entrepreneur. I always knew I wanted to build something of my own, but I wanted to find a way of doing that with the right support around me.
“The TaxAssist model attracted me because it gave me the opportunity to run my own business using a proven business model, whilst also having the backing of an established network. I could focus on building relationships, growing the practice and supporting clients, knowing I had the expertise and resources of the Support Centre behind me.”
Jaz initially considered gaining more experience within a traditional small practice before making the move but quickly realised that successful business ownership was about much more than technical knowledge.
“As the business owner, I don’t need to be the person doing every technical task myself. I can build a great team around me, allowing me to focus on growing the practice, developing client relationships and creating a business that can scale.”
Since opening his shopfront office on Welford Road, Leicester, Jaz has achieved rapid growth. Starting with no inherited client base and no guaranteed revenue, the practice became profitable within 13 months and has grown to support more than 515 clients, with a team of nine.
“One of the biggest challenges was building credibility. I was a 25-year-old opening a new practice in a market with established firms, with no clients and no team. I had to build trust one client at a time through visibility in the local community, delivering great service and showing people the value we could provide.”
Jaz has also focused on building a sustainable, team-led practice rather than one that relies solely on him.
“Growth can create challenges if your people and processes don’t develop alongside it. We have invested heavily in building systems, developing our team and creating a structure where everyone has ownership and the opportunity to progress.”
The support provided by TaxAssist has been a key part of Jaz’s success.
“The training and support from the Norwich Support Centre has been invaluable. It ensures we stay up to date with the latest legislation and best practice, whilst the strength of the TaxAssist brand helps build trust with prospective clients. The central marketing support is also fantastic and allows us to focus on delivering exceptional service to our clients.”
For Jaz, the most rewarding part of running his own practice is helping local businesses succeed.
“What I enjoy most is helping local business owners succeed. Whilst accounts and tax are our core services, we increasingly support clients with tax planning, business growth, restructuring and strategic advice. Seeing the real difference that advice can make to a client's business is incredibly rewarding.”
Looking ahead, Jaz plans to continue expanding the practice, developing his team and strengthening the advisory support he provides to SMEs.
“We've achieved a great deal in a relatively short period of time, but I still see significant opportunities ahead. My focus is on continuing to develop the team, expanding our advisory services and using technology and automation to improve the client experience. We want to keep building a scalable, modern practice that delivers exceptional value to local businesses.
“Running your own business is hard work, but it's incredibly rewarding. If you're willing to commit, the opportunities are enormous, both personally and professionally. I'm excited to see what the next few years hold.”
