INDUSTRY RECOGNISED:
“Books to the Boardroom: Where Finance Leaders Share Their Stories”
Now recognised as one of Australia’s TOP THREE Podcasts for public accountants.
Delivering relevant, authoritative content has earned us recognition from FeedSpot and the Institute of Public Accountants. We’re proud to be ranked among the top six finance podcasts, acknowledged for our industry relevance, expert authority, social media engagement, and consistently fresh content.
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, Australian companies are increasingly turning to outsourcing as a strategy to boost efficiency, reduce costs, and stay competitive. At Brisca Global, we’ve been tracking this trend closely, and the numbers speak for themselves: Australia’s Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector is booming, with over 36,000 businesses now operating in this space – a 3.2% growth from last year.
The BPO industry in Australia has seen consistent growth over the past five years, with an average annual increase of 3.2% in the number of businesses. This steady expansion reflects a fundamental shift in how companies approach their operations, from large corporations to small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
1. Cost Efficiency: Our clients have reported significant cost savings through outsourcing, with IT outsourcing slashing expenses by up to 70% in some cases. However, it’s not just about cutting costs - it’s about smart resource allocation that allows businesses to invest in core competencies.
2. Access to Global Talent: Outsourcing opens doors to specialist skills without the hefty price tag. Australian SMEs are increasingly leveraging global talent to punch above their weight in areas ranging from tech development to customer care.
3. Increased Flexibility: In today’s fast-paced market, agility is crucial. Outsourcing allows businesses to scale operations on demand, whether facing a sudden surge or a seasonal lull.
4. Focus on Core Business: By outsourcing non-core functions, companies can concentrate on what they do best. For instance, a Melbourne retailer saw online sales jump 40% in just six months after outsourcing their e-commerce management, allowing them to focus on curating great fashion.
5. Risk Management: Outsourcing can help share the load of business risks, from navigating complex regulations to bolstering cybersecurity.
Australia’s unique position in the Asia-Pacific region makes it an attractive outsourcing destination. Our nation’s stability, skilled workforce, and cutting-edge infrastructure provide a solid foundation for businesses looking to expand their reach in the region.
Cloud-based solutions are revolutionising the outsourcing landscape. These innovations allow businesses to access global expertise without hefty infrastructure investments, making outsourcing more accessible than ever before.
At Brisca Global, we’re not just observers of trends – we’re partners in navigating them. Our team of experts is ready to help you harness the power of outsourcing for your unique business needs. Whether you’re a large corporation looking to streamline operations or an SME aiming to punch above your weight, outsourcing could be the key to unlocking your business’s true potential.
As the business landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: outsourcing is no longer just a cost-cutting measure. It’s a strategic tool that, when used effectively, can drive innovation, boost efficiency, and propel your business to new heights. The question isn’t whether your business can afford to outsource - it’s whether it can afford not to.
Welcome to our inaugural issue, where we reflect on some of our guests from Books to the Boardroom and Ambitious Accountants. As you’ll notice, we’ve undergone a rebranding exercise and repositioned Books to the Boardroom for its third season, now proudly presented as CFO Catalyst. Meanwhile, Ambitious Accountants has expanded its visual presence across the Tasman, featuring New Zealand finance professionals.
We have ambitious plans for the year ahead and invite you to join us as we elevate the profiles of CFOs and aspiring accountants. Books to the Boardroom is recognised as a premier platform for finance leaders, offering unparalleled insights and networking opportunities.
From Balance Sheets to Boardrooms: Voices Shaping Finance:
In this edition, we present an eclectic ensemble of finance professionals who are creating ripples of change from the boardroom to the accounts office. Our meticulously selected roster traverses sectors and national boundaries, highlighting the rich tapestry of expertise in the world of finance.
We profile these distinguished guests who have ascended to the pinnacle of corporate finance:
Sharyn Williams – CFO, G8 Education
Denice Bennett – CFO, Auckland City Mission
Tim Bensley – CFO, Carpet Call
Jacob Muraca – CFO, Bondi Sands
Peter Nijmeijer – CFO, Heritage Lifecare
These leaders share their journeys from the ledger to the C-suite, offering invaluable insights on steering organizations through financial challenges and opportunities.
New Zealand’s Accounting Innovators
From the land of the long white cloud, we spotlight these ambitious accountants who are redefining the profession:
Tyler Caskey – Partner, The Bean Counters
Felicity Hill – Director, Frank Accounting Limited
Angus Ogilvie – Tax Specialist and Business Strategist, Generate Accounting
Nickie Sheehan – Trio Accounting NZ
Stephanie Crawford – Bookkeeping Business Coach
Andrew Coleman – Managing Director, Neovia
These professionals are not just number-crunchers; they’re strategic advisors, tech adopters, and industry disruptors.
In the following pages, you’ll find concise profiles of these industry leaders, each accompanied by links to their in-depth podcast interviews. These episodes offer a treasure trove of knowledge, from strategic financial management to the nuances of tax optimization and beyond.
Our co-presenters, Sumith and Sanjaya, bookend this issue with their unique perspectives on the evolution of their respective podcasts and their vision for the future of financial dialogue.
Join us as we explore the minds shaping the future of finance and accounting. Whether you’re a seasoned CFO or an aspiring accountant, there’s wisdom here for every stage of your financial journey.
As mentioned, we have significant plans to expand our podcast reach this year. We look forward to you joining us on this journey and welcome your interest in becoming a guest.
In the world of business podcasts, “Books to the Boardroom” (BTBR) stands out as a platform that gives voice to the often-unheard stories of CFOs and finance professionals who’ve made the leap into broader business leadership. At the helm of this innovative show is Sumith, a former commercial accountant who has navigated his own transition from number-crunching to entrepreneurship.
BTBR was born from Sumith’s personal experience of moving from accounting to business ownership.
“It had been burdensome,” Sumith reflects, “especially for a commercial accountant, transitioning into a client-facing sales and marketing role.”
This challenging shift led to a conversation with Jack, his former marketing strategist, where they identified a gap in the podcast landscape. CFOs and finance professionals rarely had the opportunity to share their stories with the wider business community.
What started as a platform for finance professionals to tell their tales has evolved over three seasons. The show expanded its scope in season two to include a broader range of business leaders and leadership topics. Now, in its third season, BTBR has come full circle, focusing on the strategies CFOs use to navigate today’s volatile business environment.
The impact of hosting BTBR on Sumith’s career has been profound. “Being part of co-hosting at the beginning and then advancing into hosting it myself elevated me to another level in my professional career,” he shares. The experience has boosted his confidence in presenting to larger audiences and provided invaluable learning opportunities from successful guests
Among the many inspiring stories featured on BTBR, one stands out for Sumith. Glenn Richard’s journey from veterinary surgeon to becoming Australia’s flagship investor on Shark Tank resonated deeply.
“It’s
a great story,” Sumith explains, “especially for professionals too attached to their profession and hardly looking for opportunities beyond their professional framework.”
Reflecting on his journey, Sumith offers a piece of advice to his younger self: spend less time on technical skills and more on developing human skills like effective communication and leadership. This insight speaks to the core of what BTBR aims to achieve –highlighting the importance of well-rounded business acumen for finance professionals looking to step into leadership roles.
The podcast landscape has evolved alongside Sumith’s career, mirroring broader changes in the business world. He notes that outsourcing has transformed significantly over the past nine years.
“The global talent pool has increased rapidly, becoming comparable to the Australian workforce,” Sumith observes.
Technological advancements have made it more feasible for SMEs to access global talent, while the pandemic-driven shift to remote work has further normalised outsourcing practices.
Looking to the future, Sumith and the BTBR team are focused on enhancing the guest and audience experience by expanding their reach and listenership. If BTBR were a book, Sumith envisions its title as “Uncovering the True Business Heroes,” with the current chapter aptly named “Finance Heroes.”
As the lines between traditional finance roles and broader business leadership continue to blur, podcasts like BTBR play a crucial role in showcasing the potential for transformation. Sumith’s journey from accountant to podcast host embodies the very essence of what BTBR celebrates – the ability of finance professionals to leverage their transferable skills and step confidently into leadership roles.
In an ever-changing business landscape, “Books to the Boardroom” serves as both a guide and an inspiration, proving that the path from balance sheets to boardrooms is not just possible, but potentially transformative for those brave enough to make the leap.
In the world of business podcasts, “Books to the Boardroom” (BTBR) stands out as a platform that gives voice to the often-unheard stories of CFOs and finance professionals who’ve made the leap into broader business leadership.
Tune in to ‘Books to the Boardroom’ – a top-ranked finance podcast that’s making waves in the industry. Recognised by FeedSpot and the Institute of Public Accountants, we’re proud to be among the top six podcasts in our field, rated for relevancy, authority, social media engagement, and fresh content.
This is an invitation to join us as a guest on our podcast, where we deliver essential insights into navigating today’s complex financial and business landscapes.
Let’s collaborate for your next success story.
Contact me today sumith@brisca.com.au 0410 659 835
In this episode, we’re thrilled to present Sharyn Williams, the Chief Financial Officer of G8 Education, an ASX-listed company. Sharyn brings a wealth of experience to our podcast, with a career spanning multiple industries including education, automotive, electrical, finance, IT, retail, wholesale, manufacturing, and engineering.
What sets Sharyn apart is her unique background as a dual-international athlete. With over a decade of elite-level sports experience, she draws fascinating parallels between the world of competitive sports and the business arena. This perspective offers our listeners invaluable insights into leadership, teamwork, and high-performance strategies in the corporate world.
Sharyn’s journey includes significant roles such as CFO and Company Secretary at CMI Limited, where she navigated the complexities of an ASX-listed company with diverse business interests. Her experience extends to guiding companies through critical processes like IPOs, as seen in her time with CoreLogic RP Data.
In our conversation, Sharyn shares her expertise in driving strategic financial, governance, and operational outcomes. Her insights are particularly relevant for those in the education sector, given her current role at G8 Education, but the lessons she imparts are applicable across various industries. BOOKS TO THE BOARDROOM
Listen to Sharyn’s full episode here:
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a finance leader who combines top-tier corporate experience with the mindset of a championship athlete. Sharyn’s episode is a masterclass in translating success strategies from the sports field to the boardroom.
In this inspiring episode, we’re joined by Denice Bennett, Chief Financial Officer of Auckland City Mission – Te Tāpui Atawhai. Denice’s fascinating career journey across multiple sectors sets the stage for a rich and insightful discussion.
Denice’s path to her current role in the non-profit sector is as diverse as it is impressive. Her experience spans healthcare, technology, and engineering, providing a unique lens through which she views financial leadership in mission-driven organizations. Let’s explore how her background shapes our conversation:
1. Healthcare Sector Insights: Denice shares how her time as Group CFO at Third Age Health informs her approach to financial management in organizations with a strong social mission.
2. Mergers and Acquisitions Expertise: We delve into lessons from her role as Acquisition and Integration Manager at Tāmaki Health, exploring how this experience influences her strategic planning in the non-profit world.
3. International Business Perspective: Denice discusses how her stint as General Manager Australia at Abel Solutions Ltd broadened her view on organizational dynamics and change management.
4. Energy Sector Experience: We unpack how her CFO role at Energy Options contributed to her ability to balance financial objectives with broader organisational goals.
Throughout our conversation, Denice draws on these experiences to offer insights on:
• Adapting corporate financial strategies to the non-profit sector
• Leveraging change management principles in mission-driven organisations
• The evolution of strategic planning across different industries
• Balancing financial prudence with social impact objectives
• Applying agile project management in various organisational contexts
Listeners will gain a unique perspective on how a multifaceted career can lead to innovative approaches in non-profit financial leadership. Denice’s journey demonstrates the value of cross-sector experience in addressing the complex challenges faced by mission-driven organisations.
Listen to Denice’s full episode here:
Whether you’re considering a transition to the non-profit sector, looking to broaden your financial leadership skills, or curious about how diverse experiences contribute to impactful leadership, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiring ideas.
In this episode, we dive into the world of retail finance with Tim Bensley, Group CFO and Company Secretary of Carpet Call, Australia’s leading flooring retailer. Tim’s insights offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolving role of CFOs in today’s fast-paced business environment.
Throughout our conversation, Tim shares his journey of driving innovation and excellence in finance, offering practical advice for finance professionals at all career stages. Here’s what you can expect from this engaging discussion:
1. Technology in Finance: Discover how Tim has leveraged Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and other cuttingedge technologies to modernise Carpet Call’s financial operations. Learn about the challenges and rewards of implementing new systems like ERP in a retail setting.
2. Change Management: Tim reveals his strategies for successful change management within finance teams. Hear how he’s cultivated a culture that embraces innovation and strives for operational excellence.
3. Balancing Innovation and Fiscal Responsibility: Get Tim’s perspective on maintaining financial prudence while driving technological advancement. He shares practical tips on making a business case for innovation in finance.
4. Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Learn how Tim has enhanced communication between finance and other business units, and why he believes this is crucial for driving overall business growth.
5. Evolving CFO Role: Tim offers his thoughts on how the CFO role is changing, particularly in retail. He discusses the increasing importance of strategic thinking and business partnering in finance leadership.
6. Budgeting and Cost Management: Hear about Tim’s innovative approaches to budgeting, including his experience with zero-based budgeting, and how he identifies cost-saving opportunities across the business.
Listen to Tim’s full episode here:
Whether you’re an aspiring CFO, a finance professional looking to drive change in your organisation, or simply interested in the intersection of finance and retail, this episode promises valuable insights and practical takeaways.
In this episode, we’re joined by Jacob Muraca, the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Bondi Sands, who brings a wealth of experience from his unique career journey to our discussion.
Jacob’s path to his current dual role is as diverse as it is impressive. With seven years at the helm of Bondi Sands’ financial and operational strategies, he has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth in the competitive beauty and personal care industry. But it’s his prior experience that truly sets the stage for our fascinating conversation:
1. Global Media Insights: Jacob shares how his time as a Strategic Planning Manager at CNN in London shaped his approach to integrating research and digital analytics with revenue strategies.
2. Digital Advertising Expertise: We explore lessons from his role as Financial Controller at Captify, diving into how this experience informs his current strategies in the digital-first beauty industry.
3. Retail Financial Management: Jacob discusses how his stint as Digital Finance Manager at TOPSHOP TOPMAN honed his skills in managing the finances of a fast-paced, trend-driven business.
4. The Leap to Beauty and Personal Care: We unpack Jacob’s transition to Bondi Sands and how he applied his diverse background to drive the company’s global expansion.
Throughout our conversation, Jacob draws on these experiences to offer insights on:
• Adapting financial strategies for different industry contexts
• The evolution of data-driven decision making across various sectors
• Translating lessons from global media and retail to a growing beauty brand
• The increasing importance of digital proficiency in financial leadership
Listeners will gain a unique perspective on how a varied career path can lead to innovative approaches in financial and operational leadership. Jacob’s journey demonstrates the value of cross-industry experience in tackling the challenges of a dual COO/CFO role.
Listen to Jacob’s full episode here:
Whether you’re considering a career pivot, looking to broaden your industry experience, or curious about how diverse backgrounds contribute to executive success, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiring food for thought.
We’re excited to present Peter Nijmeijer, the Chief Financial Officer of Heritage Lifecare, in this engaging episode. Peter brings a wealth of international leadership experience spanning aged care, utilities, energy, and various other sectors.
Peter’s career is marked by his ability to drive transformative change through compassionate leadership. His expertise lies in developing and implementing innovative models, processes, and strategies to enhance operational success. What sets Peter apart is his democratic leadership style, which fosters collaboration and open communication, cultivating a cohesive and rewarding work culture.
In his current role at Heritage Lifecare, Peter oversees the financial operations of a major provider of Residential Aged Care in New Zealand. His responsibilities extend to managing around 40 care homes and 20 retirement villages, serving 2,300 residents with a staff of 3,000. Peter’s focus on delivering top-tier care while expanding to meet growing demands showcases his commitment to both financial excellence and social responsibility.
Throughout his career, including roles at Wellington Electricity, Verivox GmbH, and Vital NZ, Peter has demonstrated a knack for aligning financial goals with operational needs, transforming team cultures, and navigating complex regulatory environments. His experience in risk assessment and acquisition integration adds depth to his financial acumen.
In our conversation, Peter shares insights on:
• Balancing financial operations with the human-centric nature of aged care
• Strategies for fostering collaboration and improving communication within finance teams
• Navigating the challenges of expansion in the healthcare sector
• The importance of aligning financial strategies with organisational goals
Listen to Peter’s full episode here:
This episode offers a unique blend of financial expertise and compassionate leadership, providing valuable lessons for professionals across various industries, especially those in healthcare and finance.
At Brisca, we’re not just number crunchers. We’re your strategic growth partners.
From Ambitious Accountants, we’re showcasing a diverse group of New Zealand finance professionals who have been guests on our podcast with their insights and expertise. These individuals represent the cutting edge of accounting practice in New Zealand, each bringing a unique perspective to the industry:
• Tyler Caskey – Partner at The Bean Counters, offers a fresh take on modern accounting practices.
• Felicity Hill – Director at Frank Accounting Limited, shares her journey in building a client-focused firm.
• Angus Ogilvie – Tax Specialist and Business Strategist at Generate Accounting, brings his wealth of experience as an FCPA and FCGNZ to discuss complex financial strategies.
• Nickie Sheehan – Chief Encouragement Officer at Trio Accounting NZ, provides insights on leadership and team motivation in accounting.
• Stephanie Crawford – Bookkeeping Business Coach, reveals the secrets to success for aspiring accounting entrepreneurs.
• Andrew Coleman – Managing Director at Neovia (a member firm of Russell Bedford International), shares his expertise as a Chartered Accountant leading an international practice.
These professionals are the spirit of ambition and innovation that our podcast celebrates. In this issue, you’ll find illuminating excerpts from their interviews, offering a glimpse into the dynamic world of accounting in New Zealand. Their stories not only inspire but also provide practical insights for accountants at every stage of their careers.
We invite you to join our group of guests on ‘Ambitious Accountants’. If you’re a forwardthinking finance professional with unique insights or innovative approaches in the accounting world, we’d be keen to hear from you. Share your experiences, discuss your challenges, and inspire our listeners with your journey. Your story could motivate the next wave of accounting innovators.
Let’s collaborate for your next success story.
Contact me today hello@ctcnow.co +64 22 514 3556
In the ever-evolving world of finance and accounting, the “Ambitious Accountants” podcast, cohosted with Sumith and Sanjaya, is breaking new ground. This innovative platform is challenging traditional stereotypes and showcasing the dynamic journeys of accounting professionals who are far more than just number crunchers.
The podcast’s intriguing title is no accident. “Ambitious Accountants” deliberately aims to dismantle the conventional image of accountants by highlighting the leadership, innovation, and passion that firm owners, principals, and partners bring to their roles. These are professionals who go beyond the balance sheet, driving change and setting new standards in the industry.
One of the most striking revelations from the podcast has been the diverse and unexpected career paths of its guests. A standout example is Angus, who transitioned from a National Sales Director role at MYOB to become an influential accountant with a substantial following on LinkedIn. This story underscores the podcast’s mission to showcase the multifaceted nature of modern accounting careers.
What began as an Australian-focused initiative has transitioned into a trans-Tasman phenomenon. The podcast has cultivated a growing audience and community in New Zealand, reflecting the shared challenges and opportunities faced by accounting professionals across both nations.
Drawing insights from a range of guests, “Ambitious Accountants” offers a glimpse into the future of the profession. Sanjaya predicts a landscape dominated by technology, with increased automation and data analytics playing crucial roles. However, the human element remains irreplaceable, with a stronger emphasis on advisory services complementing traditional accounting functions.
As the podcast evolves, its future direction is clear. “Ambitious Accountants” is setting its sights on New Zealand, aiming to delve deeper into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by accounting professionals in the region. This focused approach promises to bring fresh perspectives and valuable insights to listeners on both sides of the Tasman.
Perhaps the most unexpected skill developed as a podcast host is the art of storytelling. In a profession often perceived as dry and numbers-driven, the ability to craft compelling narratives has proven invaluable. This approach not only engages listeners but also reveals the human side of accounting, demonstrating that the profession is about much more than just figures and spreadsheets.
“Through the podcast, I’ve learned how to keep conversations interesting, highlight real-life experiences, and show that accountants do much more than just crunch numbers—they’re essential to the success of any business,” Sanjaya reflects. “Ambitious Accountants” is more than just a podcast; it’s a movement that’s redefining what it means to be an accountant in the modern world. By showcasing diverse career paths, embracing technological advancements, and emphasising the power of storytelling, it’s paving the way for a new generation of financial professionals who are ambitious, adaptable, and ready to lead.
As the podcast continues to grow and evolve, focusing on the New Zealand market, it promises to remain at the forefront of industry trends, offering valuable insights and inspiration to ambitious accountants across the region.
The Bean Counters
In this episode of our Ambitious Accountants series, we’re joined by Tyler Caskey, Partner at The Bean Counters, whose journey from traditional accounting to innovative business transformation sets the stage for an inspiring discussion.
Tyler’s career path exemplifies the evolution of the modern accountant. His entrepreneurial venture, founding The Bean Counters, shaped his mission to “take the risk and complexity out of changing systems and processes,” instilling an entrepreneurial spirit that continues to drive his approach to accounting.
Drawing from his time as a Partner at Rothsay Chartered Accountants, Tyler shares how this role expanded his view on client service and business advisory. He also delves into his experiences as CFO at IA Design, First Focus IT, and Wavelength International, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities across various industries.
Throughout his career, Tyler has maintained a keen focus on system implementation and process automation. This emphasis has evolved alongside technological advancements, leading to his current expertise in cutting-edge financial technologies.
Our conversation with Tyler explores the transformation from traditional accountant to business improvement catalyst. He offers practical strategies for achieving significant time and cost savings in finance operations, and discusses the integration of technology in accounting, from system implementation to PowerBI reporting.
Tyler provides valuable insights on balancing innovation with client needs across different business contexts, and examines the expanding role of accountants in driving overall business strategy and performance.
Listeners will gain a unique perspective on how ambitious accountants can leverage diverse experiences to become drivers of business transformation. Tyler’s journey demonstrates the power of continuous learning and adapting to technological advancements in the accounting field.
Listen to Tyler’s full episode here:
Whether you’re an accountant looking to expand your impact, a finance professional interested in process optimisation, or a business owner curious about the strategic value of modern accounting services, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiring ideas for revolutionising financial operations.
In this episode of our Ambitious Accountants series, we’re joined by Felicity Hill, Director at Frank Accounting Limited. Felicity’s journey from traditional accounting to innovative business advisory perfectly encapsulates the evolution of the modern, ambitious accountant.
Felicity’s entrepreneurial vision led her to found Frank Accounting Limited, shaping her mission to deliver valuable advisory and accounting services through meaningful client relationships and clever use of technology. Her experience as Business Advisory and Accounting Manager at KPMG New Zealand honed her skills in helping privately owned businesses exceed their objectives.
Drawing from her time as Manager of Business Advisory Services & Family Business at BDO New Zealand, Felicity offers unique perspectives on family constitutions and succession planning. Her early involvement in establishing cloud accounting services and partnering with Xero has significantly influenced her approach to leveraging technology in accounting.
Our conversation with Felicity explores the transition from traditional accounting to becoming a strategic business adviser. She shares practical strategies for creating meaningful, long-term client relationships and discusses the integration of technology in accounting, with a focus on cloud-based solutions.
Felicity provides valuable insights on balancing the needs of family-owned businesses with modern accounting practices. She examines the expanding role of accountants in driving business growth and profitability.
Listeners will gain a unique perspective on how ambitious accountants can leverage diverse experiences to become true partners in their clients’ success. Felicity’s journey demonstrates the power of combining deep accounting knowledge with innovative advisory skills and technological proficiency.
Listen to Felicity’s full episode here:
Whether you’re an accountant looking to expand your impact, a finance professional interested in modern advisory services, or a business owner curious about the strategic value of contemporary accounting practices, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiring ideas for revolutionising financial operations and business partnerships.
MANAGING DIRECTOR Generate Accounting
In this episode of our Ambitious Accountants series, we’re joined by Angus Ogilvie, Managing Director of Generate Accounting. Angus’s remarkable journey from sales and technology to strategic accounting and business advisory perfectly illustrates the evolution of the modern, ambitious accountant.
Angus’s entrepreneurial leadership led him to found Generate Accounting, shaping his mission to help small and medium businesses grow into larger enterprises, challenging the status quo along the way. His experience as Head of Sales at LexisNexis Pacific and National Manager at MYOB NZ Ltd informed his perspective on leveraging technology for business growth.
Drawing from his time as Sales & Marketing Manager at Office Products Depot, Angus offers unique insights on revenue growth strategies for SMEs. His role as General Manager at Modempak Ltd contributed to his understanding of operational challenges faced by SMEs.
Our conversation with Angus explores the transformation from traditional accountant to strategic business adviser. He shares practical strategies for driving business growth and revenue generation in SMEs, and discusses the crucial intersection of tax planning and business strategy.
Angus provides valuable insights on leveraging technology to enhance accounting practices and business management. He examines the critical role of governance and compliance in SME success, while addressing the challenge of balancing regulatory requirements with strategic growth initiatives.
Listeners will gain a unique perspective on how ambitious accountants can leverage diverse experiences to become integral to their clients’ business success. Angus’s journey demonstrates the power of combining deep tax expertise with broad business acumen and technological savvy.
Listen to Angus’s full episode here:
Whether you’re an accountant looking to expand your strategic advisory role, a business owner seeking to understand the value of modern accounting services, or a professional interested in the evolving landscape of SME support, this episode offers practical insights and inspiring ideas for driving business growth.
In this episode of our Ambitious Accountants series, we’re joined by Nickie Sheehan, the self-styled Chief Encouragement Officer of Trio Accounting NZ. Nickie’s fascinating journey from marketing professional to Chartered Accountant, and now a specialist in supporting women-owned businesses, sets the stage for an inspiring and insightful discussion.
Nickie’s early career in marketing with big brands like Dun & Bradstreet, Fila, and Doc Martens shaped her unique approach to client relationships and business growth strategies. She made a bold decision to pursue her Chartered Accountant qualification while raising three children, navigating the challenges and rewards of this significant career pivot.
Founding Trio Accounting NZ allowed Nickie to address a gap in the market, creating an accounting firm that truly understands and caters to women business owners. This entrepreneurial vision has positioned her uniquely in the accounting landscape.
Our conversation with Nickie explores the unique challenges and opportunities for women in business. She shares strategies for balancing business growth with personal well-being and discusses the importance of tailored financial advice for different business owner demographics.
Nickie provides valuable insights on how accounting can be a tool for empowerment and confidence in business. She examines the evolution of accounting services to include more holistic business support and highlights the value of industry specialisation in accounting practices.
Listeners will gain a unique perspective on how ambitious accountants can leverage diverse experiences to create meaningful, tailored services for their clients. Nickie’s journey demonstrates the power of combining solid financial expertise with empathy, encouragement, and a deep understanding of client needs.
Listen to Nickie’s full episode here:
Whether you’re an accountant looking to carve out a unique niche, a business owner seeking an accountant who truly understands your challenges, or a professional interested in the evolving landscape of accounting services, this episode offers practical insights and inspiring ideas for creating impactful accounting practices.
In this episode of our Ambitious Accountants series, we’re joined by Stephanie Crawford, a multi-awardwinning bookkeeper who has transformed her career into that of a highly sought-after business coach. Stephanie’s journey from practitioner to industry leader sets the stage for an inspiring and practical discussion on elevating the bookkeeping profession.
Stephanie’s experience founding and later selling Jada Accounts & Bookkeeping shaped her understanding of the challenges and opportunities in running a successful bookkeeping practice. Her transition into coaching, through founding The Business of Bookkeeping™ and Business Headspace™, has allowed her to amplify her impact on the industry.
Drawing from her experience as an accounting software consultant for Xero, Reckon, and MYOB, Stephanie offers insights on leveraging technology to enhance bookkeeping practices. Her numerous accolades, including being named in Ignition’s Top 50 Women in Accounting, have influenced her perspective on excellence in the field.
Our conversation with Stephanie explores strategies for bookkeepers to scale their businesses beyond traditional service models. She discusses the critical role of technology adoption in modern bookkeeping practices and shares insights on balancing technical proficiency with business acumen and client relationship skills.
Stephanie provides valuable perspectives on the evolving role of bookkeepers as strategic partners in their clients’ businesses. She offers practical approaches to creating more time freedom and improved profitability, while emphasising the importance of community and continuous learning in professional growth. Listeners will gain a unique perspective on how ambitious bookkeepers can transform their practices into thriving, scalable businesses. Stephanie’s journey demonstrates the power of combining deep technical knowledge with entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for elevating the entire profession.
BOOKKEEPING BUSINESS COACH
Stephanie Crawford Coaching
Listen to Stephanie’s full episode here:
Whether you’re a bookkeeper looking to grow your practice, an accountant interested in the evolving bookkeeping landscape, or a business owner seeking to understand the value of modern bookkeeping services, this episode offers practical insights and inspiring ideas for professional growth and business transformation.
In this episode of our Ambitious Accountants series, we’re joined by Andrew Coleman, Director at Neovia Advisory Limited. Andrew’s journey from Chartered Accountant to Director of a member firm of Russell Bedford International showcases the evolution of the modern accountant into a strategic business advisor.
Andrew’s progression from local accounting firms to directorship at Neovia Advisory, a member of Russell Bedford International, has broadened his approach to financial and business solutions. His experience working across various industries enhances his ability to provide tailored advisory services.
Andrew’s transition from Chartered Accountant to Director offers insights on the skills and mindset shifts required to take on leadership roles in the accounting profession. He combines his Chartered Accountant credential and Business Studies Diploma with practical experience to deliver comprehensive financial solutions.
Our conversation with Andrew explores the transformation of the chartered accountant’s role from number-cruncher to strategic advisor. He shares practical strategies for providing valueadded services beyond traditional accounting and discusses the importance of developing industry-specific knowledge in financial advisory.
Andrew provides valuable perspectives on balancing technical proficiency with strategic business acumen. He examines how to leverage international networks to enhance local accounting practices and offers insights on anticipating and adapting to future trends in accounting and financial advisory services.
Listeners will gain a unique perspective on how ambitious accountants can expand their roles to become indispensable business advisors. Andrew’s journey demonstrates the power of combining deep technical knowledge with a broad understanding of business strategy and industry dynamics.
Listen to Andrew’s full episode here:
Whether you’re an accountant looking to enhance your advisory skills, a business owner seeking to understand the evolving role of accountants, or a finance professional interested in the future of accounting services, this episode offers practical insights and forward-thinking ideas for professional growth and client service excellence.