Meet Austin Zimmerman, a CPA at SP Group, P.C. (spgrouppc.com)

Tell us a little about your business. – SP Group, P.C. is a full-service accounting firm based in Lincoln, specializing in tax planning and preparation for businesses and individuals, audit and assurance engagements and consulting services. We believe in the power of positive relationships and take great pride in helping our clients reach their long-term goals.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Accounting is an ever-changing industry, with laws and regulations being revised constantly. I love this aspect of my job, in the sense that no two days are ever the same. However, it also requires us to be willing to adapt and adjust our strategic plan for the current set of facts and circumstances. The COVID pandemic was certainly a challenging time for our team, as there was a massive influx of tax legislation and relief programs that directly impacted our clients.

However, I’m proud of how our firm was able to quickly educate ourselves and our clients on these programs and help them navigate the best path forward.

Tell us a little about your family. – My wife, Kirsten, and I have been married for just over four years and have a wonderful two-year-old daughter, Amelia. We also have a dog, Nash, who is most definitely the true ringleader of the family.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing golf and attending Nebraska sporting events. My wife and I also enjoy live music, especially if it’s someone we’ve never had the opportunity to see before.

Who inspires you? – Public accounting offers the opportunity to get to know entrepreneurial people on a personal level, and learn about the story of how they started their business and got to where they are today. Each and every client has their own perspective and areas of expertise. Playing a part in the success of a client is inspiring and is an opportunity that we don’t take for granted.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – My high school golf coach always used to say that “luck is when preparation meets opportunity.” I don’t know if the message fully sunk in at the time as a high schooler, but now I have come to appreciate that when one is prepared and ready to spot the right opportunities, good luck tends to follow.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – Moneyball by Michael Lewis.

What is your favorite movie? – The Godfather.

What is your favorite TV show? – The Simpsons.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? – Momo Pizzeria & Ristorante.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Paul McCartney. I think it would be fascinating to hear from someone who has been so influential for so many people for so many years, yet still feels the motivation to continue to innovate and create new music. He would have an endlessly entertaining array of stories, and you never know – he might want some tax advice too.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – azimmerman@spgrouppc.com | (402) 420-7758 | spgrouppc.com