Jack Trent

Jack Trent, CPA

Expertise:

As an author, business owner, and mentor, Jack Trent has exhibited the entrepreneurial spirit as he has helped others build their own businesses:

• CFO of one of Utah’s fastest growing companies
• Author, Entrepreneurial Controls: Financial Operational Standards for Emerging Businesses, iUniverse 2008

Education:

Boston University

• Masters of Science (Financial Services)

Utah State University

• Bachelors of Science, Summa Cum Laude (Philosophy)

Leadership and Associations:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Certified Financial Manager (CFM)
• Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
• Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
• Member, Association of Financial Professionals (CTP)
• Member, Association of Certified Fraud Examiners
• Member, Institute of Management Accountants
• Member, Boise Chamber of Commerce
• Board Member, Idaho Hemophiliac Foundation
• Guest speaker, National Association of Women Business Owners

Q & A

How would you describe the landscape of public accounting going forward?
Most CPAs are contracting and reducing services- we’re expanding and seeing new opportunities to grow and serve our clients.

Describe a favorite client or client story.
I get excited about watching clients grow especially during challenging times! Key Design Websites has been such an inspiration as they have overcome hurdles, obstacles and everything else this difficult business climate has hurled at them and they have transformed themselves into website champions!

What personal qualities do you bring to public accounting?
As an experienced controller with advanced education, I can see situations play out and I can provide guidance and direction. I encourage clients to tackle tax issues head on and work through cash flow issues, personnel and reporting issues. Mountains were made to be climbed, not surrendered to.

What is the Button-Down Sweater Approach to accounting?
I have been mistaken for Mr. Rodgers before and I decided to take that as a compliment. I approach accounting like Mr. Rodgers approached storytelling. I want my clients to feel comfortable telling me their stories- the good and the bad. Putting the numbers together into a storyline that you can understand is what accounting is all about, whether you wear a button-down sweater or not.

Who are you when you are not balancing numbers?
I enjoy spending time with my three children and my beautiful wife. Making pasta is one of my favorite hobbies. I also enjoy long bike rides, rollerblading, traveling and working on my goldfish pond.