By: Travis Hutton
Bio: Andre Shammas is an experienced accountant and tax preparer based in El Cajon, California. Originally from Malaga, Spain, Andre moved to the U.S. with his family in the 1990s, facing the challenges of adapting to a new country. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from San Diego State University, going on to work as an auditor for the State of California. Today, he runs Shammas Bureau, providing personalized tax services and budgetary guidance to individuals and businesses in the region. Known for his hands-on approach, Andre balances his professional commitments with a deep passion for family, cooking, and exploring the beauty of San Diego.
What motivates you in your work?
What drives me is the impact I can make on people’s well-being. Numbers are important, sure, but what really matters is how those numbers affect a person’s life, their family, and their future. I love being in a position where I can help someone understand their budgetary situation better and see them get peace of mind through proper planning. That’s where the real satisfaction comes from.
How has your personal background influenced your approach to business?
Growing up in Spain and immigrating to the U.S. as a teenager taught me a lot about resilience and adaptability. My family had to start from scratch, and we faced challenges that, at the time, felt overwhelming. But we made it through together. That experience made me understand the value of hard work, the importance of family, and how financial security can change lives. Those lessons directly shape how I approach my business today. I take my clients’ budgetary goals seriously, knowing the difference it can make for their families.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part is seeing my clients succeed—whether that means getting a great tax refund, resolving a complicated issue, or simply reaching a place where they feel in control of their money. It’s more than just numbers; it’s about helping people build a future they can feel confident about. When a client walks away with that sense of relief, I know I’ve done my job.
How do you balance running a business and being there for your family?
To me, balance isn’t about splitting time evenly. It’s about focusing on what’s important in the moment. When I’m at work, I’m fully present with my clients, ensuring I give them the attention they deserve. When I’m with my family, whether we’re having a BBQ or exploring a new spot in San Diego, I’m all in with them. It’s about quality over quantity for me, and making sure I’m there when it matters most.
What’s one piece of advice you would give someone starting their career in accounting?
Be patient and stay committed to learning. The field of accounting is more than just math; it’s about understanding the complexities of budgetary systems and how they impact people’s lives. Learn to communicate with clients in a way that makes sense to them, not just to you. The better you understand their needs, the more effective you’ll be at providing solutions.
What’s one challenge you’ve faced, and how did you overcome it?
One of the biggest challenges early in my career was feeling like I had to prove myself. As an immigrant, there’s always this sense of needing to work harder to earn respect and trust. It wasn’t easy, but I leaned into my strengths—my work ethic and my ability to connect with people. Over time, I realized that authenticity and consistency win over clients and colleagues. You don’t have to be perfect; you just have to be reliable and genuinely care.
How do you stay ahead in an industry that’s always changing?
Staying ahead means staying curious. The tax laws are constantly shifting, and the digital tools we use are evolving rapidly. I make it a point to keep up with the latest updates, not just because I have to, but because it allows me to offer the best possible advice to my clients. Whether it’s taking a new course or attending a webinar, investing in continuous learning is essential.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I’m really passionate about cooking, especially BBQing. For me, it’s a great way to unwind and spend time with family. There’s something satisfying about taking the time to prepare a meal from scratch, kind of like the way I approach my work—focus on the process, and the results will take care of themselves.
What’s your definition of success?
Success, for me, is about creating a life where my family is taken care of, my clients trust me, and I can continue growing both personally and professionally. It’s not about flashy milestones or accolades; it’s about making sure the people in my life are better off because of the work I do.
When you’re not working, where can we find you?
When I’m not working, I’m usually with my family, whether it’s enjoying a day at the beach, checking out a new restaurant in San Diego, or just having a quiet evening at home. I love exploring new places and experiences, but at the end of the day, it’s all about spending time with the people who matter most to me.
Published by: Khy Talara
