Tax Services | Concord CA | M Steel Tax Advisory

About

Minako Steel, CPA

Who Is Minako Steel

Minako has more than 20 years of public accounting experience (including Big 4) with particular expertise working with C corporations and Japanese companies doing business in the United States.

As a bilingual Japanese/English CPA, Minako has helped many companies across industries increase revenues and optimize their tax strategies.

Minako held various leadership roles, including co-leader of Japanese Service Group, the leader of Life Science industry group in Bay Area, and the West Coast leader of Growth and Retention of Women's group under Diversify initiative at her previous accounting firm.

Minako holds BA in Japanese Literature, BS in Accounting, and MS in Tax.

Minako has a passion about helping female professionals. She is a board member of Financial Woman of San Francisco. (www.financialwomensf.org)

Why I started my business.

I started my business with a clear purpose in mind. It stemmed from a deep-rooted desire to make a meaningful impact and address the challenges faced by start-ups and female entrepreneurs. Recognizing the limited opportunities and support available, particularly for women in business, I was driven to create a solution that would empower and uplift these aspiring entrepreneurs. My entrepreneurial journey began with the goal of breaking barriers, fostering growth, and providing expert tax return preparation and consulting services tailored specifically for start-ups and female business owners. By starting my business, I aimed to create a positive and transformative change in the entrepreneurial landscape, enabling others to succeed and thrive in their ventures.

Where I came from.

I was born and raised in Shizuoka, Japan

Challenges I have faced.

I started my career in Japan, but, I felt thwarted in my career growth as a woman. I made the bold decision to come to the U.S. for more opportunity. I started my career in Phoenix, but the lack of a cohesive Asian community there was difficult. I moved to San Francisco, which has now been home for 20 years. I feel so comfortable here. After 5 years at the Japanese Service group of Deloitte where I was not required to learn or use English, I needed to grow. I knew if I continued to only serve Japanese clients, it would narrow my opportunity. I switched to the tax group where I worked on major US accounts and eventually joined the Life Science Group.

Why I love what I do.

I find immense joy and fulfillment in my work, which involves empowering start-ups and female business owners. The opportunity to make a real and impactful change in the lives of these entrepreneurs brings me great satisfaction. I am inspired by the creativity and innovation displayed by my clients and enjoy building meaningful relationships along the way. The constant learning and dynamic nature of my work keep me engaged and enthusiastic. Ultimately, I love my work because it allows me to contribute to the success and growth of start-ups and female business owners, pursuing my passion and making a difference in my clients' lives.