Manders had been familiar with Govers long before joining Plato Group in 2022. He interned there nearly 20 years ago and also collaborated with Govers during his previous role. "Their approach really resonates with me. We have a highly professional relationship, but there's always space for humor. They continuously think proactively about ways to enhance efficiency. Unlike the large firms, at Govers, you're never just a number."

An international outlook
Although Govers is a relatively small firm, it has a deep understanding of the international scope of Plato Group, according to Manders. "They view our annual tax plan from a global perspective and advise us on potential tax benefits we can leverage abroad. Bas Pijnaker, a partner at Govers, chairs the international UHY network of legally independent accounting and consulting firms. Several of our companies are also part of that network, where they can quickly and easily get answers to questions, such as those related to transfer pricing."

Stringent laws and regulations
Govers supports Plato Group with both tax and accounting matters. "In both areas, there is a significant need to adhere to various guidelines. With 10 entities abroad and operations in most European countries, we face a wide range of laws and regulations. While I receive feedback from our foreign offices on what we need to comply with, having a single umbrella partner like Govers to provide us with guidance is incredibly valuable. In accounting as well, there are increasingly complex laws and regulations that companies must follow, and Govers is always focused on finding the most efficient approach."

VAT course
Last year, at Manders' request, Govers organized a VAT course tailored for around 80 colleagues who don't work with finance regularly. "I wanted to give everyone a basic understanding of VAT—like the fact that international shipments always have VAT implications. With a simple checklist, they can now understand the impact of such shipments without needing to consult a finance colleague. Govers responded eagerly to my request, and their VAT experts delivered a fantastic, customized course."

Learn more about Plato Group at www.platogroup.eu.