Owner Frank L. Hayes has much reason to celebrate the 30 plus years of his accounting firm. He started Hayes and Associates as a way to provide employment opportunities for minorities in the accounting field. Now, 37 years later Hayes and Associates is one of the most successful accounting firms in the state of Nebraska, with recognition coming in many ways including Hayes’ induction into the Omaha Business Hall of Fame in 2009.
The company has provided employment for over 250 individuals, many of whom have been people of color. After receiving his accounting degree from Creighton University and with over 8 years of experience working as a Revenue Agent for the IRS, Hayes ran into issues finding work with local CPA firms. When a managing partner expressed concerns of how clients would react to the fact that Hayes was Black, Hayes knew he had to be the catalyst to change the mindset of many working in the industry. Thankful for the partner’s honesty, Hayes was offered the position and accepted. Having gained valuable work experience with the government and a local CPA firm, Hayes decided to step out and start his own company in 1983.
Hayes and Associates have evolved into a full-service CPA firm, owned by Frank L. Hayes, along with Brad Yoder and Gregory A. Johnson. The company provides accounting, audit, bookkeeping, tax and consulting services to clients.
When asked to define Hayes and Associates, Hayes simply replies, “At Hayes & Associates, it is really not about numbers. It is about our mission. Our mission is to fully engage our clients, empower our team to be their best, and be active contributors to the communities in which we live and work. Over the last 34 years, I believe we have lived our mission.”
