I completed a Bachelor of Commerce from UWA and commenced my employment with KPMG. I initially worked in our valuations group, primarily focusing on independent expert reports for public companies and valuations for private companies. I subsequently transferred into our mergers and acquisitions group, focusing on leading acquisitions, divestments and capital raising. I went on to complete a Finsia diploma as well as the Chartered Accountants Program.

My experience in Australia and relevant qualifications have enabled me to undertake a number of secondments, including time spent in Vancouver (six months), London (three years), Melbourne (four years) and Sydney (two years).

My current role is to lead our team of 10 people in Perth through the process of originating and completing transactions. This exposes me to a number of clients and industries, requiring proficiency in valuation techniques, legal contracts, negotiation techniques and general project management.

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What does a typical day involve for you?

Client meetings occupy much of the day, generally advising on the current status of a transaction, and providing feedback on the process of due diligence investigations and contract negotiations.

Business development, including identifying potential clients and negotiating initial terms of a transaction also occupy a part of most typical days.

Reviewing documents such as contracts, valuations or due diligence reports prepared by my staff or other advisers.

Administrative functions occupy the balance of time, such as financial reporting and engagement management.

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What interpersonal skills are essential for your role?

The ability to converse on a wide range of subjects and develop a rapport with a cross-section of people.

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What sort of person is good in this role and type of organisation?

Mathematically skilled people with an interest in learning about new businesses. A core requirement is the ability to identify transaction opportunities and an ability to nurture long term trusted adviser relationships.

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What do you find the most rewarding about your current role?

The ability to frequently interact with senior business leaders and work with a group of smart people, who are constantly challenging me.

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What do most people find challenging/difficult about a role like this?

Continuing to be resilient through the highs and lows of transactions. It is always difficult when transactions are aborted, so having a sense of long-term goals and putting issues into perspective is important.

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What were you looking for in an employer when you joined your current role?

Breadth of opportunity, professional development and a strong client base.

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What benefits are essential to attracting the best people?

Flexible working hours, a strong team culture and accelerated promotion opportunities based on skill sets, not length of service.

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What other jobs and career paths could you consider taking in the future?

Board directorships or senior management positions.

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How do you keep up to date?

Through KPMG, Finsia, constant reading, talking to peers, attending topical conferences.

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Why did you become a member of Finsia?

To strengthen my corporate finance skill set, undertake complementary technical training and to be part of leading edge ‘think tank’ body.

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What tips for success do you have for aspiring financial service professionals?

Find a mentor working in the area you want to move to – asking people to be your mentor is usually taken as a compliment.