Switching from the security of a corporate job to running your own business is a big decision. It requires courage, patience, and support. Summer To knows this first-hand. She spent years working as a corporate accountant for a large international hotel chain in Australia. She had a secure, stable job, handling finances for multiple brands and operations.
But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Summer began to rethink what she wanted out of her career. Keep reading to learn how Summer transitioned from being a corporate accountant to a successful business owner.
Transitioning from corporate to franchise owner
Leaving a secure corporate job is never easy, especially when you’ve built your entire career around it. Summer had years of experience as an accountant, but becoming her own boss meant facing new risks. She wasn’t sure exactly how it would turn out, but knew it was time to make a change.
Initially, Summer considered starting entirely on her own, but quickly realised she needed more practical support. That’s when she looked into franchising. She chose First Class Accounts because it was a recognised brand with the biggest network of bookkeepers in Australia.
Overcoming the challenges
When Summer first began her franchise business, she quickly discovered it was far more involved than being an accountant within a corporation. She had to handle everything herself:
- Bookkeeping
- Marketing
- Sales
- Client communication
- Operations
- Recruitment.
She reflects honestly about her early struggles:
“The steepest learning curve was realising that when you run a business, you’re not just an accountant anymore—you have to do everything. Marketing, client communications, operations… you are wearing every hat. Of course, we all want to know how to do everything, but it’s hard to manage time and energy across so many areas. That was my biggest challenge—learning to juggle all these responsibilities.”
Another major challenge was finding suitable employees who shared her vision. Summer realised that recruitment required her to clarify exactly what qualities she needed from her staff. This was something new for her since staffing had never been her responsibility. She invested significant effort in finding people who matched her values and goals.
Defining major milestones
Despite initial challenges, Summer’s efforts quickly paid off. Her hard work resulted in impressive growth. Within her first year, Summer was awarded “Best Emerging Franchisee” by First Class Accounts. Receiving recognition from her peers gave her a major confidence boost.
However, Summer says the real highlight wasn’t the award itself, but the steady growth of her business:
“In my first year, I was awarded Best Emerging Franchisee, which was such a great recognition. But for me, the real achievement has been my business growth—I’ve doubled in size every year. I’m now in my third year, and I’m still on track. That’s the goal—to keep growing and pushing forward.”
The role of community and mentorship
One of the most valuable things Summer gained from joining First Class Accounts was immediate access to a supportive community. Running a business alone can feel isolating, but having a network of franchise owners around her changed everything.
Summer emphasises how important this support was to her success:
“Being part of a network like First Class Accounts has been invaluable. What I enjoy the most is the community—the biggest bookkeeping network in Australia. I have access to so many people who have done exactly what I’m doing, and they are incredibly generous in sharing their experience. I also have a mentor within the franchise who has been a huge support, guiding me on business strategy and technical skills. Without this network, I wouldn’t know where to find such people.”
Her mentor, another franchise owner, provided Summer with guidance on everything from technical questions to overall business strategy. Their regular catch-ups helped her navigate common issues and grow professionally.
Words of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
For others who might be considering making the jump into business ownership, Summer offers encouraging but realistic advice. She knows exactly how overwhelming starting out can feel, but believes strongly in seeking support:
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help. I had another franchisee volunteer to be my mentor, and she has been an incredible guide—helping me with technical challenges and business decisions. Over time, we even became friends. If you ask for advice, nine times out of ten, people will say yes. They’ve been through it before, and they’re happy to share their experiences.”
Summer encourages new business owners to trust others, delegate tasks, and ask questions.
Get the support you need from First Class Accounts
Summer’s journey from a corporate accountant to a successful First Class Accounts business owner shows how rewarding entrepreneurship can be with the right approach and support. Despite initial uncertainties and challenges, she has built a growing, profitable business, discovered her strengths as a business leader, and developed valuable relationships within a strong franchise community.
If you’re inspired by Summer’s experience and want to learn more about becoming part of Australia’s largest bookkeeping network, First Class Accounts is here to help. Take your first step today and discover how franchising can support your business goals.
