| 49 Tailored solutions for individual needs Erin Barnes is supported by a team that includes Chartered Accountants who have strong farming backgrounds as well. Karen Phelps RURAL SERVICES » Naylor Lawrence Associates For 25 years, Naylor Lawrence & Associates (NLA) has been working alongside farmers and rural businesses across the Manawatu-Whanganui region providing far more than traditional accounting services. The firm has built its reputation on understanding the realities of farming life and helping clients make sound business decisions through every stage of their journey. One of the firm’s directors Erin Barnes brings a unique perspective to the role. As both a Chartered Accountant and living the farming lifestyle herself she understands first-hand the pressures facing agricultural businesses, from unpredictable seasons and fluctuating commodity prices to succession planning and long-term financial sustainability. She is supported by a team that includes Chartered Accountants who have strong farming backgrounds as well. “This means we understand the financial, physical and mental challenges that come with the industry because we live them too,” explains Erin. “That helps us have practical conversations with our clients because we know what life on the farm is really like.” Rather than offering one-size-fits-all advice, NLA tailors solutions to the individual needs of each farming business. It works with dairy, beef and other rural enterprises on everything from specialist rural tax planning and business structures to budgeting, cashflow forecasting and succession planning. “We help farmers make informed decisions throughout the year so they can build stronger more resilient businesses. We like to get around the table with their support network such as farm advisor and banker as that can have really positive impacts if we all work together.” One of the firm’s strengths is combining technical expertise with genuine relationships. Staff regularly spend time on farms getting to know clients, understanding their operations and learning what success looks like for each family business. “Every farm is different, every family is different and every business has different goals,” explains Erin. “By taking the time to understand those differences we can provide advice that genuinely adds value.” Technology also plays an important role. NLA supports clients with accounting software, financial reporting, payroll, business strategy and virtual chief financial officer services, helping farmers access the financial information they need to make confident decisions without becoming overwhelmed by administration. The firm is also able to benchmark farming businesses through tools such as DairyBase, allowing clients to compare performance and identify opportunities for improvement. “We want to free farmers up to focus on farming,” says Erin. “If we can take away some of the financial stress and give them clearer information they’re in a much better position to plan ahead and grow.” Although agriculture continues to evolve NLA believes strong relationships remain at the heart of good business advice. “We’re invested in the success of the people we work with,” explains Erin. “When our clients succeed, their families, businesses and communities benefit as well.” Originally established in 2001 by former PricewaterhouseCoopers partners seeking a more locally focused approach, NLA has grown into one of the region’s largest chartered accounting firms servicing a variety of clients and businesses. It has offices in Dannevirke, Palmerston North and Feilding. Erin says people can book in for a free one hour consultation to show how NLA can make a real difference to their business.
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