Frank Hayes provides advice to aspiring entrepreneurs

When Frank Hayes founded Hayes & Associates, LLC in 1983, he understood the value of hard work.

Originally from Mississippi, Hayes grew up on a family farm. He moved to Omaha at age 16 and graduated from Creighton University with a bachelor’s in Business Administration in 1975.

Humble beginnings

The first of 11 siblings to attend college, Hayes credits his upbringing with his success as a certified public accountant.

“My dad was a farmer and his dad was a farmer,” Hayes says. “I believe that one of the reasons I’ve been able to do well is that I have a strong work ethic having been raised on a farm.”

After working for the Internal Revenue Service, Hayes says he initially struggled to find a public accounting position in Omaha.

Once he achieved a position, Hayes says he learned the trade to start Hayes & Associates. As president, he has helped his business become the 10th largest accounting firm in Omaha.

Commitment to diversity

Hayes says he founded his firm to bring people opportunities at a time when there were fewer accounting jobs.

Since then, Hayes & Associates has employed more than 250 people as the fourth largest minority-owned business in Nebraska. Hayes says his firm strives to promote diversity.

“We just want people to feel like they are welcome here, no matter who they are,” he says.

Advice for young entrepreneurs

Now a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame, Hayes says aspiring entrepreneurs can achieve success by understanding their strengths and supplementing their weaknesses.

He also advises entrepreneurs to complete a business plan, ask themselves the tough questions, and ensure the marketing and financial pieces are in place for a profitable business.

Above all, Hayes encourages people to do their research before starting a career.

“I would say prepare as best you can and understand what it takes to be successful at any job,” Hayes says. “Always prepare yourself, and then the opportunities will come.”

About Frank Hayes

Born and raised as one of 11 siblings on a farm in the then-segregated South, Frank understood early the values of hard work and overcoming obstacles. Growing up in that environment built his confidence that he and what would become his team at Hayes and Associates can move mountains to get the necessary results. Frank credits his mother for his fierce determination to fight for what is right and just, as well as his deep appreciation for the inherent value of every person he meets.

Today, Frank’s commitment to these core values has helped to make Hayes and Associates one of the most well-respected firms in the Omaha area. His staff has grown, and his philosophy now includes a team approach to ensure a multi-dimensional approach to meeting clients’ diverse needs.

As a minority business owner, he has provided guidance for other entrepreneurs who hope to leverage their expertise and passion to make a positive difference in Omaha. For his leadership, Frank has received several awards and was inducted into the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame.

Frank’s passion continues to be focused in two areas: his family that includes two children and two grandchildren, and his roles on the boards of various communities, civic and educational organizations