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Introduce yourself! Who are you and what do you do?
I’m Rob Aquino, CEO of JBS Corp, a family-run accounting firm based in Lawrence and Methuen, MA. My role at JBS is to drive our growth and help clients succeed in their financial and operational goals. With a background in corporate finance, I’m passionate about financial empowerment and literacy. Our team at JBS provides services in bookkeeping, tax prep, payroll, and financial advisory, and we’ve had the privilege of working with over 2,000 businesses.
What made you want to start your business?
I’ve always admired my brother, Alex Mercedes, who co-founded JBS Corp in 2005. Seeing his vision for the company inspired me to leave corporate finance and help expand JBS. Family is a core value for me, and working alongside my brother, sister, sister-in-law, and other relatives and family-friends is fulfilling. Working with family has its challenges, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What do you love the most about owning a business in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts has an amazing community of smart, driven individuals, which is both inspiring and energizing. The state is full of innovation, especially in sectors like technology, finance, and education, making it an ideal environment for growth and collaboration. Plus, I’m proud to be part of a community where everyone is so invested in each other’s success. Being able to give back through mentorship and partnerships makes my work even more meaningful.
What are your favorite small businesses to support in Massachusetts?
There are so many fantastic local businesses in the area. I frequent many restaurants in the area such as Jaqueline’s Chicken, Fuego Latin Fusion, and Japu Restaurant.
What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?
I’ve learned that empathy and transparency are invaluable. Listening to the needs of your team and clients builds a foundation of trust and leads to stronger, longer-lasting relationships. In finance especially, being transparent and straightforward is essential. This focus on understanding and clear communication has fueled a lot of the success I’ve seen at JBS.
If you weren’t in your current position, what would your next dream job be?
My dream would be to own a venture capital firm that invests in small businesses. Supporting entrepreneurs has always been a passion of mine, and having the resources to fund and mentor promising businesses would be incredibly rewarding. Since 2023, I’ve been mentoring new business owners with EforAll, helping them through the early stages of their journey. Building a VC firm would be an amazing way to take that support to the next level.
When you’re not working, what activities do you enjoy?
When I’m not at work, I’m with my family — my wife and kids mean the world to me. I love cooking (especially grilling), reading about new developments in finance, and playing pickleball.
Thank you for sharing more about yourself! Tell us how we can get in touch with you or find you online.
You can learn more about me via my website, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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