YOUR BUSINESS AUTHORITY
Springfield, MO
In five years, Shuhan Gu has gone from a tax preparer to adviser and office supervisor of Abacus CPAs LLC’s Branson location.
“I am grateful for the unique opportunities I have had with establishing relationships with our clients from my very first day at the firm. I am aware that other CPA firms do not allow employees at all levels to interact with clients. That is what makes my experience at Abacus unique, advantageous and rewarding,” says Gu, a Missouri State University graduate who joined Abacus in 2017.
“Now, as a trusted adviser, I value creating personal, long-lasting connections with my clients. I understand that our clients’ businesses are their driving force of everyday life,” she says. “It is my utmost goal to help our clients truly know that we care far beyond the numbers but also about their personal goals for their companies and how we can best support their dreams through our accounting services.”
Gu’s commitment to excellence encourages others around her to provide outstanding services for clients, says John Helms, Abacus managing partner.
“Over the last several years, Shuhan has distinguished herself amongst others in the industry by her passion to serve others, her high intellect and in her outstanding leadership,” Helms says. “Each time she shares an idea for improvement, a plan of execution or practical feedback, I am amazed at her high level of curiosity and tenacity to better herself, her peers and the firm. Shuhan sets herself apart from other professionals by her willingness to take ownership of a task and see it through until the end.”
In 2020, Gu received the inaugural Abacus Integrity Values Award. Hailing from Dalian, China, and being fluent in Chinese, she’s a resource for international colleagues.
“At Abacus, we value diversity. With several international employees, I understand the differences and struggles they face of adapting in the U.S.,” Gu says. “I am always eager to answer questions and be a guide in navigating a new chapter of life.”
She stays plugged in to industry trends with membership in the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. And, as a self-described forever student of the industry, Gu is excited to take part in the 2023 Lakes Area Leadership Academy led by the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.
She says she’s found a home at Abacus and looks forward to growing with the firm.
“I want to continue to help my staff learn what it takes to be excellent,” Gu says. “I want to continue to inspire the next generation of accountants because they are the future. I want to set a positive example for the rest of the staff and in our community by being involved in training and teaching others.”
Helms praises Gu’s ability to develop relationships with clients and staff.
“She is a great communicator, and because of this, her team is always organized and ready to take on any challenge,” he says. “I look forward to how she continues to impact the firm.”
A 2023 Harvard Business Review study suggests significant positive changes when employees take sabbaticals, including greater self-clarity and management confidence.