December 09, 2020
This quarter’s employee spotlight is on James E. Storey, CPA, Director of Operations of Abacus Payroll, a division of The Alloy Silverstein Group. Abacus offers a complete payroll solution for businesses of all sizes, delivered with a commitment to above-and-beyond client service.
Jim, who earned his CPA in 2003, has more than 20 years of small business payroll experience and client relationships that span decades. It’s because he believes that outstanding communication is the foundation of good business, and he puts that principle into practice every day.
“The first thing we do is listen. Someone might be having a rough day, but when they get off the phone with us, hopefully they are more relaxed and having a better day.”
Flexibility is also key.
“Sometimes clients give us payroll over the phone. Others send it via email or fax, while many prefer to input the information themselves into our system, which is available 24/7 and 365 days a year. Our approach is to be accommodating.”
Abacus clients have a dedicated payroll specialist and access to an online HR help center, electronic timekeeping app, and more. With clients who have employees in 44 states—each with its own payroll tax laws—the work keeps everyone on their toes. Jim is responsible for ensuring that all payrolls are delivered accurately and when promised. “It’s anything but a doldrum business,” he explains. “Tax laws are always changing as are client needs. It’s interesting and exciting. It’s also very uplifting.”
“We’re dealing with people’s livelihoods. Everyone wants to get paid correctly and on time. Knowing that business owners depend on you to keep their employees happy and doing so consistently gives me great satisfaction.”
A graduate of Parsons College with a degree in accounting and psychology, Jim resides in Linwood, NJ with his wife of over 40 years. Outside the office, he enjoys traveling with his family and spending time with his grandson.
