Lionel Kaufmann

Overview

Born and raised in Geneva, Switzerland, I bring a unique blend of local expertise and global perspective to my role as an external CFO and business management expert. My career journey reflects a deep commitment to empowering small businesses and family-owned enterprises, helping them navigate the complexities of financial management, legal compliance, and strategic decision-making.

After completing my studies in business administration in Geneva, I took an impactful detour in 2008, traveling to Miami, Florida, to immerse myself in English language studies during the subprime mortgage crisis. This experience allowed me to witness firsthand the widespread effects of financial turmoil and inspired my dedication to building resilient financial strategies for businesses.

Over the years, I have developed a multifaceted approach to business management, offering a wide range of services, including financial oversight, company creation, and legal consulting. My responsibilities extend to acting as an administrator and legal representative for companies, overseeing Swiss and international value-added tax compliance, and providing tailored solutions for human resource management.

My clients span across various industries, including regulated sectors like insurance brokerage requiring FINMA authorization. Whether supporting non-operating companies, small businesses, or family enterprises, my focus is on optimizing business costs, ensuring regulatory compliance, and creating a solid foundation for sustained growth.

Through my work, I strive to be a trusted partner for companies, guiding them through ever-evolving economic conditions. With the post-COVID landscape, inflationary pressures, and global uncertainty caused by events like the Ukrainian conflict, my expertise as an external CFO is more valuable than ever, enabling businesses to adapt and thrive in challenging times.

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Expertise

My expertise lies in delivering comprehensive financial management and strategic consulting tailored to the unique needs of small and family-owned businesses. At the core of my services is a deep understanding of Swiss and international corporate requirements, gained through years of hands-on experience and a commitment to staying ahead of regulatory changes.

I specialize in managing company creation and modifications, including the establishment of anonymous companies and adjustments to articles of association. Acting as a legal representative and administrator for my clients, I ensure that their businesses operate within the bounds of Swiss regulations while maximizing operational efficiency.

Financial management is a cornerstone of my practice. From budgeting and financial reporting to cash flow optimization and tax compliance, I leverage advanced tools like Odoo Accounting, Suite Office, and EasySalary for Swissdec-compliant salaries to provide streamlined solutions. My expertise extends to taxation, corporate law, and human resources, ensuring that all aspects of business administration are covered comprehensively.

I also offer virtual office services with mail handling, helping businesses establish a professional presence while maintaining flexibility. For companies in the regulated insurance brokerage sector, I act as a liaison with FINMA, ensuring compliance with complex Swiss regulations and facilitating seamless authorizations.

In a world where regulatory frameworks are increasingly complex, I take pride in being a reliable partner, offering clarity and actionable strategies. My slogan—"Optimizing business costs in a changing family environment and complex regulatory compliance"—perfectly encapsulates my mission.

With a proven track record of guiding businesses through turbulent times, from the financial crisis of 2008 to the COVID pandemic and beyond, I remain committed to delivering solutions that empower my clients to focus on their core activities while I handle the complexities of financial and legal management.

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