The Challenge

Over the course of several months, Specialty Associates, Inc., (SAI) experienced the unprecedented turnover of three controllers, and was left with an accounting department in need of continuity. During this same challenging period, the commercial roofer’s operations were growing, along with its need for improved financial reporting. SAI needed immediate help, as well as common-sense solutions.

The Strategy

Wipfli professionals directed action to accomplish two primary goals. First, Wipfli provided financial assistance so that monthly financial statements could be produced in a timely manner. The second goal was to conduct thorough training and development of the current SAI financial personnel. Wipfli professionals quickly assembled an effective monthly closing process and training program, teaching SAI personnel how to operate within its system, and helping them understand the reasons behind the processes.

The Results

As a financial partner, Wipfli helped bring stability to SAI’s turbulent period and to its overall financial management operation. Because of Wipfli’s effective training, SAI’s financial management staff was better able to understand the work they were doing, as well as the reports they were producing. The result was a more effective process that SAI management could regard with confidence. Shortly thereafter, Wipfli was named SAI’s Business Partner of the Month.