The Visionary Behind TAM Accounting’s Success
“Proper tax planning can change the course of a business—most owners
do not realize they are overpaying every single year.”
By Sitki Kazanci
In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving financial landscape, having the right tax strategy is critical for businesses and individuals alike. Few understand this better than Yesim Deretam, CEO and Certified Tax Coach of TAM Accounting, a firm renowned for its personalized and proactive approach to tax and accounting services. With roots in Türkiye and a career journey that spans continents, Yesim has built a reputation for helping businesses and individuals navigate the complexities of the US tax system. In this exclusive interview, Yesim shares insights on her upbringing, career journey, and the philosophy behind TAM Accounting’s success.
Can you share your childhood experiences growing up in Türkiye? How did your upbringing influence your career path?
I grew up in a small coastal town by the Black Sea in Türkiye. Throughout my education, I graduated with honors, focusing on areas that require analytical thinking, such as mathematics, finance, and management. My career began at one of the largest banks in Türkiye after I completed my degree in mathematics, followed by an MBA. My master’s thesis focused on the idea that “Small and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of the economy.” This concept has influenced my entire professional journey.
I have always been passionate about helping businesses and individuals get their finances in order and reach their full potential. While I built a significant career in Türkiye, moving to the US meant starting over. Then, I pursued accounting, became an IRS Enrolled Agent, and achieved certification as a Certified Tax Coach. By combining my financial analysis skills with the complexities of the US tax system, I developed a unique approach that effectively guides clients through their financial and tax challenges.
TAM Accounting has established a strong reputation for helping clients manage their tax strategies effectively. What is the firm’s key philosophy regarding providing tax and accounting services?
At TAM Accounting, our philosophy is centered in providing personalized, proactive solutions that understand each client’s unique financial and tax situation. We work with a diverse range of clients across the United States and internationally, individuals and businesses that are restaurants and ecommerce businesses to tech firms, service-based companies to real estate investors, and corporations, all seeking expert guidance in managing their finances and tax obligations.
Our services go beyond classic accounting and individual tax preparation. We offer accurate all-year accounting reviews, financial consulting, and tax management that help businesses maintain their financial health while maximizing profitability. Whether managing cash flow, preparing detailed financial reports, or developing tax-saving strategies, we ensure that our clients’ accounting aligns with their long-term business goals.
As a CEO and Tax Strategist, you work with diverse clients, from small businesses to larger corporations. How do you customize your approach to meet each client’s unique needs?
Every client is different, so a one-size-fits-all approach simply does not work. We take the time to understand each client’s industry, business model, and specific goals. For smaller businesses, we might focus more on cash flow management and immediate tax savings, while for larger corporations, we handle more complex issues like multi-state tax planning and international compliance. By understanding their unique challenges and goals, we create personalized strategies that drive growth and long-term success.
In your role, you have likely seen many businesses through critical financial periods. Can you share an example of a success story where your expertise significantly impacted a client’s financial outcome?
One of my most memorable success stories is with a group of investors from Türkiye who started a restaurant here in the US. They are also here with an E2 investor visa. They had been working with another CPA for two years when we met. After reviewing their financials and tax returns, I found clear mistakes—such as missing industry-specific credits and extra taxes they should not have been paying. We corrected the past returns and managed to recover about $200,000 from both the state and IRS. With that money, they opened a new restaurant, turning their investment into a profitable business. They not only reduced their tax burden but also expanded their operations. This shows how proper tax planning can change the course of a business. It is exciting to see the difference it can make, is not it?
The truth is most business owners overpay so much money on taxes—every single year. Why? Because they do not have access to the right tax strategies that could save them thousands. Many business owners make the same mistake—they rely on traditional CPAs or a tax preparer who just enters numbers into the right boxes and calls it a day. Saving on taxes is not just about filing forms. It is about proactively finding strategies to reduce your tax bill, something a regular tax preparer just does not do.
Absolutely. It is such a great saving. Tax law and accounting can be complex, especially with constant regulatory changes. How do you stay ahead of the curve, ensuring your clients receive the best possible advice?
Staying ahead in the tax world requires continuous education. I regularly attend industry conferences, participate in webinars, and keep up with the latest changes in tax laws and regulations. Beyond that, we have a strong network of professionals, from lawyers to financial planners. Our goal is not just to keep up but to anticipate changes so we can proactively guide our clients through any shifts in the regulatory landscape.
As a female leader in a male-dominated industry, what has been your experience, and how do you see gender dynamics evolving in the financial services sector?
I see the gender dynamics in our industry evolving, with more women stepping into leadership roles. There is a growing recognition of the unique perspectives women bring to accounting and finance, fostering a more inclusive environment. While we still have progress to make, I believe the future is promising, with diversity becoming a key driver of innovation and success in the sector.
What role does technology play in TAM Accounting’s operations, and how are you leveraging innovations like automation or AI to enhance client services?
Technology is central to everything we do at TAM Accounting. We have implemented automation tools to streamline routine tasks allowing us to focus more on strategic advisory services. AI tools help us analyze data faster and more accurately, improving our clients’ decision-making. However, while technology enhances efficiency, it is important to maintain a human touch, especially in areas like tax strategy, where personalized advice is key.
What message or advice would you like to share with our readers, particularly those aspiring to make a difference in their communities or professions?
As an immigrant woman who came to the US, left behind a successful career, and built a new one from the ground up, my biggest advice is to stay resilient. Do not shy away from taking risks—whether in business or in life here in the US. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and always remain curious and adaptable. In both accounting and life, planning is critical. Plan your budget, finances, taxes, and retirement, and you will see the difference it makes. A solid plan and the flexibility to adjust along the way can truly transform your future. Remember, everything you need to create the life you want is within your reach. ■
Tam Accounting Inc.
5000 Centregreen Way, Ste 500
Cary, NC 27513
Phone: +1 (984)-248-6700
Whatsapp: +1 (540) 429-5555
info@tamaccounting.com
www.tamaccounting.com
