Shakira Elliott B Ed, B Com (Acc), Xero Certified Advisor

From being someone who came to accounting the long way round, we’re grateful to have Shakira back in our ranks.

Despite loving accounting when she was younger, Shakira instead qualified as a teacher after she left school and travelled the state helping kids with special needs. But being back with family, and accounting, beckoned.

In 2011 she joined Carrick Aland in Dalby, her hometown, and subsequently completed her second degree in a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting.

“I changed from teaching to accounting,” says Shakira, “Whilst I do miss the kids I get to be a lot closer to home now.”

“I do a lot of tax and accounting for companies and trusts – mainly primary producers – which is right up my street having grown up on a cattle property.”

Shakira also has a knack for organising clients’ records in Xero, although she is proficient in also using Phoenix, QuickBooks and MYOB.

“It’s an opportunity to set things right and then improve the financial information each year. I’m currently transitioning a business with multiple entities from QuickBooks to Xero which will make it much easier to collaborate and keep on top of their financials.”

Right now Shakira is anticipating the impact of Single Touch Payroll procedures and compliance on employers and is ready to handle any queries. Playing netball and squash each week, as well as spending her downtime with her family, keeps her equilibrium in check.

“I know I made the right decision to move into the field of accounting when I began work at Carrick Aland. The Partners are very supportive and flexible, as they allowed me the opportunity to find a good balance between work and study. The work is challenging, interesting and enjoyable and, just as importantly, our culture is personal and warm.”

Connect with Shakira on LinkedIn