What makes a CFO sharp?
Our founder, Michael DiSabatino has honed his skills through years of experience serving as a Chief Financial Officer for numerous companies, practicing as a Certified Public Accountant, and establishing multiple successful business ventures.
This unique blend of experiences has provided the optimum foundation to build comprehensive and insightful financial solutions tailored to businesses of all sizes and needs.
At Sharp CFO™, we are dedicated to driving your business’s financial success through precise planning, robust risk management, and innovative growth strategies.
Our approach is grounded in integrity with a deep commitment to your financial health, ensuring that your business thrives and continues to achieve sustained profitability.
A note from our founder:
I have raced high-speed motorcycles and cars throughout my life, and this experience has effectively prepared me to take decisive action with a devout dedication to precise, calculated movements in everything I do.
This has led me to believe the following concepts to be true: Know your course, know where the finish line is, keep everything maintained and running at its best, and most importantly, maintain control while racing full-out to the end.
Now, after much practice, I feel this technique has become second nature. It has set a high bar for relationships with clients, and I will continuously strive for a first-place finish, treating the financial responsibility of your business as if it were my own.
Michael DiSabatino, Founder
About Michael DiSabatino, Founder of Sharp CFO™
Michael DiSabatino has a rich history of entrepreneurship and financial expertise, making him the driving force behind Sharp CFO™. Raised in New Jersey, Michael's journey into the business world started early, influenced by his father's encouragement. By the age of 16, he had already established his own motorcycle accessory shop.
Early Career and Education
Michael pursued a BS degree in Accounting with a concentration in Computer Science at William Paterson University in Wayne, NJ, completing the four-year program in just three years. His professional journey began with General Motors and transitioned into public accounting, where he obtained his CPA certification. This foundational experience set the stage for his future endeavors in both the corporate and entrepreneurial spheres.
Accounting Firms and Expansion
Michael's career in accounting saw significant growth. He initially established an accounting firm in New Jersey, which he successfully expanded into Pennsylvania. His commitment to providing exceptional accounting services led him to become a CPA and run CPA firms in both states. Upon relocating to California in 1988, Michael started another CPA firm, continuing his tradition of excellence in financial management.
Venturing into California
In 1988, Michael was invited to manage the accounting needs of a Ventura, California-based construction company, prompting his relocation to California. He established his own accounting firm in Channel Islands Harbor, serving clients across New Jersey and California. His career expanded further when he took on the role of CFO for a software company during the Dot Com era, where he also developed a passion for website programming.
Entrepreneurial Success
Michael's entrepreneurial spirit led him to create Sportbikes.com, which became a popular motorcycle-related website, earning the 2007 Community Site of the Year award. His success in this venture underscored his ability to blend technology and business acumen.
Founding We Do Books
In 2005, Michael founded the CPA firm DiSabatino, CPA, in Camarillo, providing personalized tax preparation and financial consulting. Building on this success, he established We Do Books to offer high-end accounting and tax services to small businesses at affordable rates. The firm has since expanded its operations, with offices in Scottsdale and Wickenburg, Arizona.
Commitment to Excellence
Michael's approach to financial management emphasizes communication, integrity, and personalized service. He believes in building solid relationships with clients, ensuring they receive the strategic guidance needed for financial growth and stability.
At Sharp CFO™, Michael and his team offer comprehensive services, including tax planning, asset protection, and estate planning, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. His vision is to provide the same level of expertise to both small and large businesses, helping them navigate the complexities of financial management and achieve sustained success.
Certifications and Continuing Education
Michael holds numerous certifications, including being a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Tax Professional (CTP), and has completed courses at Harvard University. His commitment to continuing education ensures he remains at the forefront of financial and strategic management practices.
For more information about Michael DiSabatino and We Do Books, you can visit We Do Books - The Founders.
What is your fast track to financial success?
When you bring Sharp CFO™ on board as your dedicated CFO, we will fine-tune a personalized roadmap that outlines the optimal path to support your business's financial success.
Let's set some expectations and break down our process:
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Initial ConsultationWe start with an initial consultation, offered at no charge. This session allows us to understand your business needs, challenges, and goals, and gives you the opportunity to evaluate our potential and personalities. |
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Customized ProposalBased on the information gathered during the initial consultation, we develop a customized proposal outlining the specific services we will provide, the scope of our engagement, and the associated costs. This proposal is tailored to meet your unique needs and budget. |
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Hierarchical Engagement ApproachOur typical engagement is hierarchical. Initially, we work intensively on your business, with a typical approach requiring two to three days a week to gather data and perform a thorough assessment. |
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Onboarding and SetupOnce the proposal is accepted, we begin the onboarding process. This includes setting up necessary systems, gaining access to financial data, and introducing you to the team members who will be working with you. We ensure a smooth transition and minimal disruption to your business operations. |
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Financial AssessmentOur team conducts a thorough financial assessment to gain a deeper understanding of your business's financial health. This involves analyzing your financial statements, identifying areas for improvement, and developing initial recommendations. |
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Strategic PlanningWith a clear understanding of your financial position, we work with you to develop a strategic plan. This plan outlines specific goals, strategies, and actions to achieve your financial objectives. We focus on key areas such as budgeting, cash flow management, risk management, and growth opportunities. |
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Tax Planning, Asset Protection, and Estate PlanningAs part of our comprehensive services, we also provide tax planning, asset protection, and estate planning. These elements are integrated into our overall strategy to ensure that your business is not only profitable but also protected. Our tax planning services aim to optimize your tax situation and reduce liabilities. Asset protection strategies safeguard your business and personal assets from potential risks. Estate planning ensures that your business and personal wealth are effectively managed and transferred according to your wishes. |
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Implementation and MonitoringWe assist in implementing the strategic plan, providing ongoing support and guidance. This includes regular check-ins, financial reporting, and adjustments as needed. Our goal is to ensure your business remains on track to achieve its financial goals. |
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Regular Reviews and AdjustmentsWe conduct regular reviews to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the strategic plan. These reviews help ensure that your business adapts to changing circumstances and continues to move towards its financial objectives. |
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Ongoing SupportThroughout our engagement, we are always available to provide advice and support. Whether you have a quick question or need assistance with a major financial decision, you can rely on Sharp CFO™ to be there for you. |
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Book a meeting today, and let's develop a plan for you to take home the ultimate trophy… your financial success.
Case Study: Enhancing Profitability
A mid-sized manufacturing company was struggling with declining profits despite steady sales. Sharp CFO™ conducted a thorough financial analysis and identified key areas where operational efficiencies could be improved. By implementing strategic cost-reduction measures and optimizing its budget, we helped the company increase its profit margins by 15% within six months.
Case Study: Strategic Growth Planning
A small tech startup needed guidance to scale its operations and attract investment. Sharp CFO™ developed a comprehensive financial plan and conducted a SWOT analysis to identify strengths and opportunities for growth. Our strategic consulting enabled the startup to secure significant investment and double its workforce, positioning it for long-term success.
Case Study: Risk Management and Asset Protection
A family-owned retail business faced risks related to market fluctuations and supply chain disruptions. Sharp CFO™ provided risk management services, including asset protection strategies and cash flow optimization. As a result, the business achieved greater financial stability and resilience, allowing it to navigate uncertainties with confidence.
Case Study: Turnaround Success in a Machine Shop
A 36-employee machine shop, working on military and other contracts, was unable to meet its payroll obligations. When Sharp CFO™ received a call on a Tuesday, the company was at risk of not making payroll by Friday. Michael DiSabatino immediately secured a bridge funding to meet payroll and began a thorough financial overhaul of the company. Within a few months, the company returned to profitability. In the first year, it generated $600,000 in net profits. By the second and third years, annual profits had grown to between $1 million and $2 million. This turnaround was achieved through changes in management's perspective, financial adjustments, and effective asset management. The company had the fundamental strengths needed, and Michael DiSabatino’s expertise transformed these into substantial financial success.
Case Study: Achieving a Profitable Exit for a Performance Automotive Company
Our company was brought into a well-known performance automotive manufacturing business that was losing $50,000 a month and experiencing a severe downturn. The challenge was to revamp the company despite significant resistance from the owner, who struggled to see our vision. We pointed out that his vision was costing $50,000 a month, while our vision focused on achieving profitability.
We developed an exit plan, initially set for five years, but six months into our engagement, the owner received a cancer diagnosis, making our exit strategy even more urgent. Within one year, we turned the company around, earning in excess of $1 million. In year two, profits increased by another 50%, positioning it for market success.
In three years, we sold the company for $10 million in cash with no holdbacks. This successful exit allowed the owner to retire and live comfortably for the remainder of his life, which, unfortunately, ended just two years after the sale. This case highlights the profound impact of strategic financial management and the importance of timely, decisive action in achieving business success.
Case Study: Securing Growth for an Electronics Component Manufacturing Company
Sharp CFO™ was engaged as a part-time CFO for an electronics manufacturing company that was reasonably successful but needed assistance in obtaining a $5 million bank loan to ease cash flow during periods of expansion. This scenario is common among small and regional businesses seeking to grow, whether they need $100,000 or $5 million. Without organized financial records and clear projections, securing bank funding can be challenging due to perceived financial risk.
We strategically worked with the company to address financial risks and present solid projections, enabling them to secure the necessary loan. Our approach ensured the company had the financial stability needed to support its growth. Since that initial engagement, we have been retained by the company for over fifteen years, providing continuous strategic financial management.
Our ongoing partnership has involved supporting the company with financial reporting, bank negotiations, and strategic planning. This includes advising on capital asset increases and expanding operations into two additional countries, thereby reducing costs and increasing profitability. Our long-term relationship underscores the value of having a reliable CFO to consult on financial decisions, ensuring sustained growth and success.
One of the reasons for this long-term relationship is not only our comprehensive financial reporting that helps guide them through the ebbs and flows of business, but also our accessibility. We are just a phone call away to help with critical decisions or even the simplest queries. This level of support provides the company with the confidence and security needed to navigate both high and low periods effectively.
Case Study: Safeguarding and Expanding a Power Sports Superstore
Sharp CFO™ was engaged as a part-time CFO for a power sports superstore that was relocating and building a brand-new, ground-up facility at a cost exceeding $3 million. The engagement started with an analysis of liability, as businesses like power sports stores can often find themselves deep in litigation. We first implemented asset protection strategies, providing a baseline for protection.
Once we established this foundation, we worked on creating financial projections to secure construction loans and performed asset allocation for further asset protection, setting up several LLCs to establish a robust strategic protection plan.
Additionally, we implemented cost segregation, which allowed the company to depreciate and write off the building quickly, resulting in improved cash flow during the initial years. This increased cash flow enabled the business to pay down its financing faster, significantly boosting profitability.
Our engagement continued for over six years as the company expanded and stabilized its profitability. Eventually, the business brought in an in-house controller to manage ongoing financial operations, marking a successful transition from our strategic guidance to self-sustained financial management.
One of the key benefits for the superstore has been having a trusted financial advisor just a phone call away.
Whether for simple queries or complex financial decisions, having a part-time CFO to guide them has been invaluable. This level of accessibility and personalized support ensures that no matter the size of your business, you have the expertise needed to navigate financial challenges and opportunities effectively.
Case Study: Long-Term Financial Support for a Prestigious Law Firm
Sharp CFO™ was engaged by a 100-person law firm, well-known and featured in Forbes magazine, to evaluate the company's financial position and progress. Over the past ten years, we have provided continuous support to their financial team and assisted in partner-level decision-making.
Our engagement has encompassed a wide range of services, including strategic financial planning, tax planning, asset management, and critical financial decision-making. Additionally, we have provided guidance on various financial matters, ensuring the firm's financial health and stability.
One of the key benefits for the firm has been having a trusted financial advisor just a phone call away. Whether for simple queries or complex financial decisions, having a part-time CFO to guide them has been invaluable. This level of accessibility and personalized support ensures that, no matter the size of your business, you have the expertise needed to navigate financial challenges and opportunities effectively.
Our long-term relationship with the firm underscores our commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality financial support, helping the firm navigate its growth and maintain its esteemed reputation in the legal industry.
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The first step toward your financial success is scheduling a consultation with our team. Bring your questions and concerns to our attention. Our engines are revved, set to go, and we are ready to assist you in the best way possible.