Greg Leiser, Consulting CFO for Pro Back Office, has an extensive history and noteworthy career as a CFO and Vice President of Finance for a multitude of impressive companies. The most intriguing position being at the Walt Disney Company where he was a senior accountant for Lucasfilm Ltd. Greg was with the company during the years renowned filmmaker George Lucas released some of America’s favorite films: Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi.
Today, Greg has been with Pro Back Office LLC as a consulting CFO for the past two and a half years. When asked what he likes most about working for Pro Back Office Office, his response highlighted some of the aspects of the internal work environment that truly distinguishes Pro Back Office from other outsourced accounting firms.
“Everyone cares a great deal about our clients; we are always developing new and improved strategies for finding the best solutions for them. The people I work with are good people who are dedicated to providing unique solutions. It’s a positive environment to be in.”
Greg states it’s a team environment and that everyone on the executive management team are amazing people to be working with. He also enjoys the flexibility and independence within his work schedule that is available to all Pro Back Office employees, and the fun events Pro Back Office consistently puts on. Greg knows the true meaning of efficiency and hard work. This along with trust, is the reason Pro Back Office allows its employees to work shorter hours or work from home.
When asked how he balances his family and work life, he responded that he does not have to put much effort into finding a balance, as Pro Back Office already provides that balance. By allowing him to work from home, Greg can cook and eat lunch with his wife Laura weekly, while still generating remarkable results for Pro Back Office.
Greg enjoys a multitude of outdoor activities including, cycling, gardening, and hiking. But sailing outranks all of them at number one. He is an avid sailor who has been navigating the seas for twenty-five years. Greg has owned his own sailboat for the past ten years and when asked where his absolute favorite place to be is, he responded, “on my sailboat, sailing” without hesitation.
There was a slight expectation that Greg’s favorite movie quote would originate from a Star Wars or Indiana Jones film. However, Greg’s favorite quote is from Clint Eastwood’s film Dirty Harry, “Do I feel lucky? Well, do ya, punk?”
Q: What was your very first job?
I worked as a teenager at a burger joint called Herphie’s, flipping burgers in Bakersfield.
Q: College and major
I attended California State University – Bakersfield as an accounting major.
Q: What are three personal traits that have helped you be successful?
1) The drive to exceed expectations
2) Waking up and starting the day early
3) Being a good problem solver
Q: If you were not working for Pro Back Office, what would you be doing?
I like to work with my hands and help other out. If I wasn’t with Pro Back Office and assuming I was financially stable, I would be doing handyman work for those who couldn’t afford it.
Q: Who inspires you?
My grandfather is my biggest inspiration till this day.
Q: What are your methods on dealing with stress?
Exercising, or popping open a nice beer!
Q: Fun Fact?
Greg is also the founder and CFO of Council Brewing Company, a unique craft brewery company located in San Diego. Council Brewing Company aims to bring the community together through their flavorful American, Belgian, and English ales. Be sure to give them a try!