Print Article in The Scotsman (2009)
Celebrating their 35th anniversary in business, Sannerud, Savarese & Associates, P.A., a certified public accounting firm, have earned the trust of hundreds of clients (most within a 40 mile radius of the office) specializing in serving closely held and family-owned businesses. Based in Ham Lake, the firm provides a wide variety of services tailored to their clients individual and/or business needs. Services provided include accounting, income tax, record keeping, financial statements, tax planning, estates, payroll, employee benefits, retirement planning and more.
Al Sannerud founded the business in 1974, after working in corporate accounting for many years. His philosophy for operating a successful business was “showing a genuine interest in each client is the hallmark of our business.” Managing Partner Susan Savarese, CPA got involved in this type of business because she enjoys working with people, educating people, and helping them achieve their goals. Al gradually removed himself from the operations of the company with Susan and Pauline Peterson, Firm Administrator, taking over the company during the 1990s.
The firm currently has 11 employees, who have many years of experience. All of their accounts have a main accountant assigned to them, as well as a back-up. Susan said the employees are the reason for the company’s success; holding themselves to the highest corporate standards, and offering a warm, family atmosphere. The company also believes in taking care of its employees, and provides lunch for all employees on Fridays and dinner one night a week during the busy tax season.
Approximately 90 to 95 percent of the company’s business is based on referrals from satisfied customers. What makes this business unique, is the employees focus on building relationships with their clients to understand and support their business and individual goals, and create financial independence.
The firm also offers in-house seminars at no charge to their clients and guests on a wide range of topics. They also stay active in the areas they serve by joining local chambers, and supporting various community organizations.