Gregory K. Cole, II – 2018 40 Under 40 Honoree

• American Payroll Association;
• National Society of Tax Professionals;
• AIPB
• National Society of Accountants 

Career Highlights:

My career started at age 18 as the GM for a national tax preparation franchise. After being replaced by the business owner for someone at a lower salary, it was then my entrepreneurial desire grew. My wife, in addition to our business partner, founded American Tax Company. Within two years, we completed a Merger and Acquisition of Dixon Financial Service, an existing firm that was established in early 1980. We have introduced a plethora of technology to the offices— allowing true efficiency, data security, and client satisfaction. We are in the process of planning the grand opening of our third office, to open in 2019. In late 2018, my wife and I acquired a retail store.
 
What are you doing to make a difference in the profession, your community, the world?

Being involved in the community is part of our corporate mission. I lead our team to at least one community project per quarter. We setup at expos and events providing free education to individuals and business on taxes, payroll, and everything in between. In between this, I am an active member of our local Chamber of Commerce. Beyond this, I am a concert pianist and blessed to be the church pianist at Maranatha Baptist Church in Princeton, WV. 

Favorite books/websites/speakers:

My favorite book is “How to Win Friends & Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. I also enjoy listening to the Successfull Bookkeeper podcasts hosted by Michael Palmer, with the Pure Bookkeeping System creates by Debbie Roberts and Peter Cook. 

What do you see yourself doing professionally in 10 years?

I see growth— not only personally, professionally, but as a community. In every community that I open an office I want to be a source of information and assistance to the community. I will continue to not only challenge my employees, but myself to be the best version of me that is possible, so I may give my all to the profession I have loved since my first journal entry! 

What accounting conferences do you normally attend? Intuit QB Connect, APA Congress, IRS National Tax Forums

What websites/magazines do you use to keep up on news of the accounting profession? CPA Practice Advisor, Accounting Today, Forbes, Accounting World News

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See more of the 2018 40 Under 40 Honorees, and the 20 Under 40 Vendor Superstars.