In this edition of Beyond the Numbers, Bernadette Grattan, Founder & Recruiting Director at The Resource Link, is joined by Robert Gilbert, VP of Finance at Fullbay. From his early days at Deloitte to his current role leading finance at a private equity-backed company, Robert’s journey offers valuable lessons for those looking to advance in their accounting careers.
The Early Years: Embracing the Grind
Starting his career at Deloitte, Robert learned early on that success in accounting often requires significant upfront investment. “There were days that were 10, 12, 14 hours during busy season,” he recalls. While watching friends in industry maintain steady 9-to-5 schedules, Robert remained focused on the long-term benefits of his public accounting foundation.
His advice to young professionals? “It’s going to be worth it.” Those long hours and challenging busy seasons laid the groundwork for his future success, helping him develop crucial skills in organization, problem-solving, and deadline management.
Transitioning to Industry: Taking the Leap
After three years in public accounting, Robert made the move to Fullbay, joining as Controller when the company had just over 20 employees. The transition brought new challenges and opportunities.
“When I walked through the door, they said, ‘Hey, you’re now in charge of it.”
His public accounting background proved invaluable, providing a framework for tackling new responsibilities and organizing complex tasks.
The Fast Track to Leadership
Within approximately seven years of starting his career, Robert had advanced to VP of Finance, reporting directly to the CEO and private equity board. This rapid progression came through a combination of timing, opportunity, and preparation. A chance connection through community involvement led to his position at Fullbay, where he helped guide the company through significant growth and even participated in acquiring another business.
Keys to Career Advancement
When asked about what drives promotions, Robert emphasized two critical factors:
The Value of an Accounting Foundation
While Robert acknowledges that few people “love applying complex accounting standards,” he emphasizes the unique advantage that accounting knowledge provides. “Understanding how financial statements work and function… is a unique skill of being able to look at a financial statement and say, ‘I have at least a pretty good idea of what this business looks like.’”
This foundation has opened doors that might have remained closed with just a general business degree, allowing him to participate in strategic planning and high-level business decisions.
Business First, Accounting Second
One of Robert’s key pieces of advice is understanding that business decisions aren’t primarily driven by accounting rules. “Businesses are in business to make money, not to apply accounting standards,” he explains. This perspective helps accountants maintain a positive attitude toward changes and focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on challenges.
Looking Forward
As the accounting profession continues to evolve, Robert’s journey demonstrates the importance of combining traditional accounting expertise with modern business acumen. Success comes not just from technical proficiency, but from the ability to solve problems, understand systems, and maintain a business-first mindset while ensuring proper accounting treatment.
ABOUT Robert Gilbert, CPA: Robert is the Vice President of Finance at Fullbay, a growing tech startup in Phoenix, Arizona, where he oversees accounting, budgeting, FP&A, and financial reporting. Before joining Fullbay, Robert worked as an Audit Senior at Deloitte, focusing on PCAOB audits for publicly traded companies. He holds a Master’s Degree in Accounting from Idaho State University (4.0 GPA) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Brigham Young University – Idaho, where he graduated with top honors.
Check him out on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-gilbert-a9890581/
ABOUT Bernadette Grattan: Bernadette is the Founder and Accounting & Finance Recruiting Director of The Resource Link, Inc., a specialty search firm she started in 2002. Bernadette takes a personalized approach to understanding the hiring manager and job seeker’s needs. This enables her to make long-term placements in accounting, finance, and executive roles. The Resource Link distinguishes itself through high-touch customer service, candid insights, and ensuring an excellent match by connecting top talent with companies aligned with their career passions.
If you are looking to hire or considering what is next, learn more at theresourcelink.com or https://linkedin.com/in/bernadettegrattan
Share this post:
For almost two decades, The Resource Link has strategically placed Accounting, Finance, & Human Resource talent with some of the best companies in Arizona! We consult with our hiring managers and candidates to dive into the best solutions and outcomes and we provide advice and feedback along the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or just pick up the phone! We would love to hear from you to help you build the best team or find the best career.
Click the image to learn more about our philosophy from our founder.
