#13 - Waseem Daher, Founder & Executive Chair at Pilot.com

Join us on this week's episode of the Slice of Finance podcast, hosted by Jared S. Taylor!

Our Guest: Waseem Daher, Founder & Executive Chair at Pilot.com.

Key Highlights

Waseem Daher’s innovative approach to accounting: Merging technology with hands-on services to simplify back-office operations.
The challenge of scaling tech-enabled service businesses: Insights into overcoming investor skepticism and operational hurdles.
Pilot’s diverse clientele: From startups to large-scale companies leveraging tech-driven accounting solutions.
The future of AI in accounting: Why AI is a tool, not a full solution, and how Pilot leverages it for efficiency.
20-year vision: Building the "AWS of business infrastructure" to run all back-office operations for companies.

Revolutionizing Accounting with Tech-Enabled Services

In the latest episode of the SoM Podcast, Waseem Daher, Founder & Executive Chair of Pilot, shared his journey of disrupting the accounting industry. Unlike traditional accounting firms or software-only solutions, Pilot offers a hybrid model that combines human expertise with proprietary technology. With a focus on simplifying back-office operations, Pilot ensures businesses—from startups to mid-sized firms—get the support they need to thrive.

Why Pilot Stands Out

When asked what makes Pilot unique, Waseem highlighted the company’s tech-enabled approach. “We’re not just selling software or services,” he explained. “We own the entire process, from bookkeeping to tax prep, ensuring a seamless experience for our clients.” By integrating software and services, Pilot differentiates itself from competitors like QuickBooks, creating more value and building stronger customer relationships.

Tackling the Challenges of Scaling

Scaling a tech-enabled service business comes with unique challenges. Waseem candidly discussed the hurdles, from convincing investors of the model’s potential to ensuring scalability without compromising quality. "The test of scalability really kicks in as you grow," he noted. Pilot’s success, with over 2,000 clients, demonstrates the effectiveness of its approach, making it one of the largest startup-focused accounting firms in the U.S.

AI’s Role in Accounting

The conversation also delved into AI’s potential in accounting. While fully autonomous AI accounting solutions remain a distant goal, Waseem emphasized the current value of AI as a tool to assist human accountants. Pilot leverages AI to enhance efficiency and accuracy, setting the stage for future innovation.

The 20-Year Vision

Looking ahead, Waseem shared Pilot’s ambitious long-term vision: to run the entire back office for businesses, much like AWS powers tech infrastructure. From accounting to HR and beyond, Pilot aims to become the go-to solution for back-office management, saving companies time and resources.

Final Thoughts

Pilot’s approach to accounting is more than a service; it’s a strategic partnership for businesses. As Waseem succinctly put it, "No business owner wakes up excited to buy accounting software—they want solutions to their problems." With its tech-enabled model and forward-thinking leadership, Pilot is well on its way to transforming how businesses manage their back-office operations.