Episode 62: S2| Quadrant Advisory’s Strategic Approach to Financial Management

Introduction

Welcome to a remarkable tale of resilience, innovation, and growth as we explore the journey of Chris May, founder of Quadrant Advisory. Based in the heart of Lexington, Kentucky—a place renowned for its thoroughbred horses and bourbon—Chris has mastered the art of steering growth businesses toward financial clarity and enhanced decision-making through outsourced accounting and fractional CFO services.

The Genesis of Quadrant Advisory

Chris’s foray into the financial world was marked by a stint in the hedge fund sector in New York, a challenging yet formative experience that coincided with the 2008 financial crisis. This tumultuous period was a catalyst for Chris, prompting a pivot to corporate finance, which eventually led him to identify a crucial market gap: small to medium-sized businesses stuck between needing basic bookkeeping and a full-fledged accounting function. This gap inspired the creation of Quadrant Advisory.

Strategies for Success

Quadrant Advisory began as a one-man operation from Chris’s living room, with his former boss as his first client. Over the past seven years, this humble venture has blossomed into a team of 28 professionals scattered across the country, all working remotely. Chris attributes this impressive growth to a robust focus on the company’s core values and a strategic emphasis on people management, echoing Richard Branson’s philosophy: “Take care of your employees, and they’ll take care of your clients.”

The Impact of Leadership and People Management

As the company scaled, Chris learned the importance of transitioning from being a service provider to leading a team capable of delivering superior service. This shift entailed implementing effective processes and systems and cultivating a leadership team that embodies the firm’s ethos. Quadrant’s success hinges on its ability to hire, nurture, and invest in the right people, ensuring they have the necessary tools and clear communication to thrive.

Navigating Challenges and Embracing Change

The journey hasn’t been without challenges. From experiencing the “grind” of initial stages to making pivotal decisions about business direction at various inflection points, Chris has navigated through numerous obstacles. His strategy involves embracing a “two-way door framework,” which encourages taking calculated risks that are easily reversible, thereby fostering innovation without significant repercussions.

Core Values and Future Aspirations

Quadrant Advisory is driven by core values that include client-first focus, team cohesion, demand for excellence, impactful communication, belief in possibility, and enjoyment of the journey. These principles not only define the company’s culture but also guide its operational strategy. Looking ahead, Chris envisions continuing to double the business every three years, maintaining profitability while ensuring a fulfilling work environment for all team members.

Conclusion

Chris May’s journey with Quadrant Advisory exemplifies the power of visionary leadership and strategic innovation in transforming the landscape of financial services for growth businesses. For those intrigued by the prospect of professionalizing their financial functions without the overhead of a full-time CFO, Chris invites you to learn more about Quadrant Advisory at www.wearequadrant.com.

 


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