Books To The Boardroom: Recent Episodes

Sumith Dissanayake

Are you interested in how Australia’s best leaders grew into the professionals they are today? The journey from University (Books) to Leadership positions (Boardroom) can take many different forms. Listen in as we interview CEO’s, CFO’s, and Executives, on how they ascended to leadership positions, made critical career choices, and overcame adversity throughout their career. The Books To The Boardroom podcast is co-hosted by Sumith Dissanayake, a CFO turned Business Owner based in Brisbane, Australia, who is fascinated by all things leadership and career development.

Most CFOs don't start their careers directing Shakespeare. Scott Drummond did.

Now CFO at REIQ, Scott sits down with Sumith to unpack his unusual journey from theatre to finance. He reckons the skills that made him a good director – proper listening, bringing out the best in teams, seeing the big picture – are exactly what CFOs need today. They also dig into what finance transformation actually looks like in a membership organisation, how to manage AI without the panic, and why Scott sees his role as "the backstop in baseball."

Worth a listen if you're interested in how people end up where they are.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

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Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode, host Sumith talks with Rebecca He, founder of RHCFO Consulting in Brisbane. Rebecca shares her unique journey from door-to-door sales in Shanghai at age 14 to becoming a transformational CFO with 25 years of experience across ASX-listed companies and startups.

Rebecca's early sales background gives her a distinct advantage – understanding that business is about human connections, not just numbers. This has made her exceptionally effective at collaborating with sales teams where many CFOs struggle.

She discusses her practical approach to AI and automation, including developing the Dental Online Voucher Exchange for Queensland Health – a $20,000 solution that saved 184,000 patient wait days in its first year. Rebecca addresses fears about AI replacing accountants, arguing this is actually the best time to enter the profession as AI handles mundane tasks, freeing finance professionals for strategic work.

The conversation covers fractional CFO services, ESG reporting, outsourcing strategies, and Rebecca's personal passions including competitive fencing (she's now a national medallist). Her advice for CFOs in the AI age? Stay open-minded, curious, and have fun with the journey.

This episode offers practical insights for finance leaders looking to embrace transformation while maintaining the human touch that makes great CFOs effective

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode, Books to the Boardroom had the pleasure of speaking with Andrew Edwards, CFO at Perfection Fresh Australia, who shared his remarkable journey from aspiring tradesman to finance leader. Andrew's career path took him through BP's global operations, where he developed the communication skills and inquisitive mindset that became his defining strengths.

We explored how Andrew navigated becoming a management accountant by 24, his philosophy of "don't avoid the risk, manage the risk," and why he believes the future of finance lies in moving beyond traditional accounting into data interpretation and business partnership. Andrew also shared practical insights on leading offshore teams, choosing the right technology, and why being uncomfortable is essential for growth.

What really struck us was Andrew's approach to developing his team - he wants people who "come into work wanting to be better today than they were yesterday." His emphasis on curiosity, understanding operations beyond the numbers, and taking on projects outside your comfort zone offers valuable guidance for anyone aspiring to senior finance roles.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

"Understanding the problem puts you 50% of the way to addressing it."

In this episode of Books of the Boardroom, Season Three of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith welcomes Simon Turner, CFO and ELT member with nearly three decades of experience in finance. Simon shares insights from his unique career path, from serving on nuclear missile submarines in the Royal Navy to becoming a CFO. They discuss leadership, the importance of addressing problems head-on, the evolution of data analytics, the role of ESG in modern business, and the potential impact of AI on SMEs. Simon also offers practical advice for upcoming finance professionals and underscores the significance of integrating operational focus within the CFO role.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode of 'Books of the Boardroom' podcast, Sumith chats with Andre Luchesi, Group CFO at Westpork and DBC in Western Australia. Andre's got a really interesting story - from corporate life to running his own ice cream business in Brazil and back to the CFO world.

Andre talks about how economic cycles really work, why understanding the big picture macro stuff matters so much for CFOs, and how scooping ice cream taught him more about business empathy than any boardroom ever could.

The conversation covers some great ground - AI and digital finance, why ESG reporting is becoming crucial, and what it's really like to juggle entrepreneurship with corporate finance. Andre's advice for aspiring CFOs? Follow your passions and keep adapting because the finance world never stops changing.

This one's packed with practical insights and some pretty genuine reflections on what it takes to succeed in finance leadership today.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith welcomes Winston Abeyeratne, CFO at Conference Group in South Australia.

Winston shares his immigration journey, starting 12 years ago, and his career transition from audit trainee at KPMG in Sri Lanka to various roles in the finance sector in Australia. He discusses the importance of backing statements with numbers, the challenges of working with high-net-worth individuals, and provides advice for new migrants and aspiring CFOs on building a career in finance. The conversation also delves into the evolving role of CFOs, the impact of AI and machine learning on the finance industry, and the significance of continuous learning and process review.

Winston offers his insights on earning respect in new roles, mentoring younger professionals, and the benefits of embracing flexibility and creativity in financial leadership

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Navigating the People-Centric Transformation in Finance

In this episode of the Books to the Boardroom, season three of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith is joined by Ben Edmonds, CFO at Alberts in Sydney. The conversation covers Ben's career journey from an early interest in tourism management to becoming a CFO, highlighting the influence of his father and his practical experiences in various financial roles.

Ben emphasises the transformative nature of the CFO role, the importance of people and leadership in business, and the evolving landscape of accounting. He also discusses the significance of digital transformation, ESG initiatives, and the challenges young CFOs face today.

Ben provides insights into managing change, maintaining professional development, and balancing technical skills with human interaction. The episode concludes with advice for aspiring finance professionals on building a successful career in accounting.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Leadership Insights: Navigating the Modern CFO Role with Christina Temme

In this episode of the Books to the Boardroom CFO Catalyst podcast, we speak with Christina Temme, CFO at AC3 in Sydney. Christina shares her extensive experience in finance, legal, and compliance, discussing the evolving scope of the CFO role and the importance of logic, decision-making, and embracing change.

She highlights her journey through a solo backpacking adventure, her passion for mathematics, and her strategies for managing teams and implementing change. Christina also delves into critical issues like digital and finance transformation, ESG requirements, and offers valuable advice for young finance professionals.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith welcomes David Hill, CFO of Mosh. They delve into the unchanging fundamentals of business and the evolving tools and skills required for successful financial leadership. David shares his unique journey from childhood entertainer to top finance executive, discussing the importance of critical thought, communication, and problem-solving in the CFO role. They also explore the democratisation of finance, the impact of AI and digital transformation, and the need for a nimble organisational structure.

Tune in for insights on how CFOs can stay ahead in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

Key takeaway from SumithWhat struck me most was his "rear-view mirror, front windscreen, and peripheral vision" approach to financial leadership. As he says, "CFOs of the future have to be engineering level digital savvy to navigate the businesses of the future."

David's non-linear career path has given him unique insights on bridging theory with practice - something I believe makes the best finance leaders.

Tune in this Sunday!

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Adapting to Change: Lifelong Learning and Technological Advancement with Luke Howes

In this episode of the Books of the Boardroom podcast, season three of CFO Catalyst, the host interviews Luke Howes, CFO at Six Degrees Executive. They discuss the importance of lifelong learning and curiosity in both personal and professional development. Luke shares insights into the values-led and relationship-driven approach of Six Degrees Executive, as well as the significance of serving all stakeholders, including clients, candidates, and employees.

The conversation also delves into Luke's unique career journey, from studying classical languages at Oxford University to his immersion in Japanese culture. They touch upon the challenges and strategies involved in technology advancement and data quality in the finance sector.

Luke emphasises the need for a growth mindset, strategic planning, and maintaining data accuracy to leverage AI effectively. He also discusses the critical role of empathetic leadership and mentorship in shaping successful finance professionals.

Finally, they explore the evolving role of the CFO over the next decade, highlighting the necessity of data literacy and strategic thinking.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode of the Books to the Boardroom Podcast, Season Three CFO Catalyst, I welcomed Scott Walkinshaw, CFO of New North Feed, Western Australia's largest vehicle equipment, transport, and crane company. Scott shared how businesses face tremendous pressure today - squeezed between clients demanding more for less and staff wanting flexible arrangements. Technology is the key to doing more without adding overhead.

Scott had a fascinating journey, including meeting the Queen at 19 as an apprentice mechanic, working as a bouncer, and eventually finding his way to finance after his grandmother's advice. "Numbers make sense to me," he explained.

We laughed about how our families still think CFOs are just tax accountants at shopping centers! Scott reflected on finance's evolution from number-crunching to strategic partnership, with automation handling transactions so people can focus on adding real value.

Scott is a big fan of cloud technology, enabling work from anywhere while eliminating infrastructure costs. Though automation helps with workloads, compliance requirements keep increasing, requiring specialized tools and proper planning.

Looking ahead, Scott believes humans will always be crucial in finance. His advice for upcoming CFOs emphasises emotional intelligence alongside technical skills - understanding people and staying curious are essential in our evolving profession

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Join host Sumith and guest Manuel Nesta, a senior finance professional based in Perth, Australia. Manuel shares insights from his career journey and current role as CFO at Acquire, a software company specialising in natural resources and ESG compliance.

Key points:

The evolution of finance from transaction processing to strategic advisory
Digital transformation and automation in finance departments
How AI is revolutionizing financial processes and decision-making
The growing importance of ESG reporting in the natural resources sector
Leveraging finance expertise to drive business strategy and growth
Mindset transformation needed when adopting new technologies
Insights on the role of immigrants in Australia's finance sector
Practical advice for aspiring accountants and finance leaders

The conversation explores how finance functions are evolving from transactional roles to becoming trusted business advisors. Manuel discusses digital transformation in finance processes, the critical role of AI and automation, and the increasing importance of ESG reporting in driving better decision-making and strategic growth.

Drawing from his unique background in mountain climbing and family business, Manuel offers perspectives on mindset transformation when adopting new technologies. The episode also examines the contributions of immigrants in Australia's finance sector and includes valuable advice for aspiring accountants and finance leaders.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In the latest episode of the Boardroom Podcast's CFO Catalyst series, host Sumith welcomes Martin Gyde, an experienced CFO from New Zealand who calls himself "the Gordon Ramsay of Finance."

Martin shares his journey from aspiring policeman to senior financial professional, influenced by his father, a former retail CEO. With his competitive nature shaped by a background in high-level rugby and tennis, Martin brings a refreshingly direct approach to financial leadership. After 25 years in CFO and CEO roles, Martin now helps struggling businesses through his consultancy, focusing on turnarounds and strategic transformation.

He discusses his five-point framework for business success, the importance of clear communication, and how the CFO role has evolved beyond numbers to become a crucial strategic partnership. Martin also provides valuable insights on navigating cultural change, implementing AI in finance operations, addressing cybersecurity challenges, and preparing for ESG reporting requirements.

This episode delivers practical wisdom for financial leaders operating in today's complex business environment.

Connect with Martin at Martin@succeedadvisory.com or on LinkedIn.

Proudly sponsored by Brisca Global with production and distribution by disruptX.one.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Navigating the Finance Role in the Era of AI: Insights from Jarrod Magee, CFO of Sapia.ai

In this episode of "Books of the Boardroom Podcast" (Season 3: CFO Catalyst), host Smith dives deep with Jarrod Magee, CFO of Sapia.ai, exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming the finance function.

Jarrod shares his journey from Deloitte consultant to C-suite executive, revealing the challenges and pivotal decisions that shaped his career. Get an insider's look at Sapia.ai’s cutting-edge recruitment technology that's eliminating bias and revolutionising hiring processes.

The conversation explores practical strategies for modern finance leaders, including:

Strategic outsourcing of transactional finance operations
Implementing automation to drive business efficiency
Building cross-functional partnerships beyond the finance department

Whether you're an established CFO or aspiring finance leader, Jarrod offers actionable advice on professional development and building a powerful industry network. This episode highlights how today's finance executives must balance technical expertise with strategic vision in the age of AI.

Subscribe now to hear this insightful conversation about the evolving role of finance in technology-driven organisations.

00:00 Introduction to the Industry
00:29 Welcome to Books of the Boardroom Podcast
01:07 Meet Jarrod Magee: CFO at Sapient AI
01:22 Jarrod's Early Life and Sports Journey
03:09 Transition to Finance and Career Evolution
06:39 Insights from Working in Multinational Companies
07:56 Challenges in the Commercial Environment
09:46 Sapient AI: Revolutionizing Recruitment
16:45 Outsourcing and Automation in Finance
22:17 Advice for Aspiring CFOs
25:58 Personal Development and Networking
28:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Auditing with EY's Madhu Nair

In this episode of the Books of the Boardroom podcast, host Sumith talks with Madhu Nair, Partner at EY Australia, who brings nearly three decades of experience in the accounting profession.

Madhu takes us on his professional journey from handwritten ledgers in India to becoming a Partner at one of the Big Four firms. He shares how his accountant father inspired his career choice and reflects on the satisfaction he's found staying with EY for 25 years while many peers migrated to commercial roles.

The conversation explores the seismic shifts in the audit and assurance landscape:

How organisations have grown exponentially in size and complexity
The post-Enron regulatory framework transformations
Technology's integration into every facet of financial reporting
The challenge of converting vast data points into meaningful information
The evolution from offshoring to near-shoring and friend-shoring

Particularly insightful is Madhu's perspective on the expanding definition of stakeholders beyond shareholders, employees, and customers to include communities and governments—especially as sustainability reporting becomes mandatory.

As AI and automation reshape the industry, Madhu offers a balanced view on what can be automated versus where human judgment remains irreplaceable.

Madhu provides refreshing perspective on the importance of community and peer influence in career decisions, revealing how his cohort of colleagues has been instrumental in his professional satisfaction. He also addresses expected future trends in financial auditing, including the continued evolution of sustainability reporting requirements.

This episode delivers valuable wisdom from "the other side of the table" for finance leaders navigating today's dynamic business environment.

00:00 Connecting with My Dad Through Accounting
00:31 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
02:07 Madhu Nair's Professional Journey
06:15 Challenges and Changes in the Auditing Industry
10:57 Technological Advancements and Their Impact
17:48 Sustainability and Regulatory Changes
22:22 The Role of AI in Accounting
24:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

From Dreams of Acting to Leading Finance - The Journey of Ilona Abram

In this episode of Books in the Boardroom podcast, Ilona Abram shares her unconventional journey from aspiring actress to Group CFO at Aquatic Achievers Group. Hosted by Sumith, Ilona delves into her diverse career path, including her roles in HR, IT, and risk procurement beyond traditional finance.

The discussion covers her experiences with significant business growth, mergers, and acquisitions, as well as her strategic approach to continuous improvement in finance. Ilona also shares insights on the evolving role of CFOs, the importance of cross-functional relationships, and the potential impact of AI in finance.

This episode offers a treasure trove of knowledge for aspiring finance professionals, emphasising the value of continuous learning and adaptability.

00:00 Introduction to Ilona Abram's Role
00:28 Welcome to the Podcast
01:01 Ilona's Career Journey
03:49 Current Role at Aquatic Achievers Group
05:20 Challenges and Growth in the Role
06:59 Evolving Role of the CFO
09:42 Continuous Improvement in Finance
14:45 Impact of AI in Finance
19:42 Returning to Brisbane: A New Challenge
24:10 Diverse Industry Experience
27:24 Advice for Young Finance Professionals
28:10 Conclusion and Farewell

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode of the Books in the Boardroom podcast, we kick off Season 3, CFO Catalyst, by diving into the world of Chief Financial Officers. Host Sumith explores financial leadership with Rowan Darling, CFO at Clemenger BBDO. They discuss Rowan's transition from audit to commercial operations, the impact of AI in finance, and balancing short-term results with long-term investments. Rowan shares insights on talent development, emphasizing that willingness to learn often outweighs technical skills. The conversation covers leadership growth and aligning individual career goals with organisational objectives.

00:00 Introduction: Skill vs. Will
00:12 Welcome to Season 3: CFOs in Focus
00:52 Meet Rowan Darling, CFO at Clemenger BBDO
01:16 Rowan's Journey: From Ernst Young to Clemenger
02:12 Understanding SOX Compliance
03:24 Roles and Responsibilities of a CFO
04:48 Transitioning from Audit to Commercial Operations
07:02 Mentorship and Continuous Learning
10:27 The Impact of AI and Automation
16:29 Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Goals
23:52 Leadership and Team Development
25:35 Future Aspirations and Closing Remarks

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Patrick Kerlin, CFO of One Door Mental Health, discusses the organisation's work and his journey to joining them, highlighting the importance of a purpose-driven approach and empowering teams to make decisions. He emphasises that finance should serve as a support function and underscores the value of listening to the team.

Reflecting on his early career, Patrick shares his experience of standing up for honesty and integrity, a principle he deems crucial in the finance profession. We explore the challenges of maintaining these values in a charter environment and the significant impact of upholding integrity.

The conversation also delves into the role of AI in finance, stressing the need for data-driven decision-making. Patrick highlights the importance of empathy and emotional intelligence in team building and offers advice for young finance leaders to follow their dreams and ensure their work aligns with their values.

Key Takeaways:

Empowering Teams: Encouraging decision-making within teams to foster ownership and responsibility.
Finance as a Support Function: Viewing finance as a role that supports overall organizational success.
Integrity and Honesty: Upholding honesty and integrity as fundamental principles in the finance profession.
AI and Data-Driven Decision-Making: Embracing artificial intelligence for improved accuracy and efficiency in financial decision-making.
Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: The importance of empathy and emotional intelligence in effective team building.

Be sure to like and subscribe to the Books to the Boardroom podcast!

In this enlightening episode of Books to the Boardroom, we sit down with Tracey-Lee Napier, CEO and Company Director of Holistic Lifestyle Services. Tracey-Lee shares her remarkable journey in the disability sector, providing insights into the valuable services her company offers and the importance of building a robust team culture.

Tracey-Lee emphasises the significance of recognising the value of each team member and fostering a culture of effective communication and problem-solving. Her passion for making a difference in the industry shines through as she discusses her experiences traveling and working with diverse communities, which inspired her to create sustainable programs and initiatives.

Throughout the conversation, Tracey-Lee offers invaluable advice for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs in the disability space. She highlights the necessity of networking, continuous learning and aligning with the right networks to achieve personal and professional growth.

Join us as we explore the critical elements of leadership and innovation in the disability sector with Tracey-Lee Napier.

Key Takeaways:

Building a strong team culture is essential in the disability sector.
Effective communication and problem-solving skills are crucial for success.
Passion and compassion are key qualities for leaders in the industry.
Creating sustainable programs and initiatives can make a lasting impact.
Networking and continuous learning are important for personal and professional growth.

In this exciting episode of Books to the Boardroom, we sit down with Gabriel (GG) Guedes, the dynamic COO & CFO of Lyka, a trailblazing company delivering human-grade meals on subscription to dogs across Australia. Hailing from São Paulo, Brazil, Gabriel's journey is as inspiring as it is diverse. With a background in engineering and a master’s degree from Italy, he transitioned into the world of management consulting before embracing his entrepreneurial spirit at Lyka.

Gabriel shares his profound belief in the power of diversity, highlighting how Lyka's workforce, which includes over 40 nationalities, fuels innovation and growth. He also emphasises the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and exploring new opportunities to drive personal and professional development.

In this episode, Gabriel dives deep into his experiences scaling businesses, offering invaluable insights on transforming from a management consultant to a successful entrepreneur. Whether you're a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur or simply interested in leadership and innovation, this episode is a must-listen. Don't miss out on Gabriel's unique perspectives and actionable advice!

Join us this week on Books to the Boardroom podcast as we welcome Kamy Brar, Director of Finance & Operations (CFO) at The Entourage. Kamy shares his incredible journey from starting as a trainee to becoming a leading figure at The Entourage, where they coach entrepreneurs and business owners on how to work on their business, not just in their business.

In this episode, Kamy recounts a memorable experience as a passionate Liverpool FC fan, illustrating the power of passion, determination and positive energy. He also dives into his early career, significant milestones and the empathetic leadership philosophy that has guided his success.

Tune in to be inspired by Kamy's story and gain valuable insights into leadership and career growth.

In this episode of Books to the Boardroom, we have the privilege of welcoming Kate Carruthers, the esteemed Head of Business Intelligence and Chief Data & Insights Officer at UNSW, as this week's guest speaker. With her extensive expertise in data-driven decision-making, technology, and leadership, Kate brings a wealth of insights that are invaluable for today's business leaders.

Throughout her impressive career, Kate has spearheaded initiatives to harness the power of data and analytics to drive innovation and achieve strategic objectives. Join us as we delve into her journey, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and pivotal moments that have shaped her approach to leadership. From her role at UNSW to her contributions to the broader data and technology community, Kate shares practical wisdom and actionable advice that can inspire leaders at all levels.

Through engaging discussions and compelling anecdotes, Kate offers a deep dive into the transformative potential of data and insights, illuminating the path to organizational success in the digital age. Whether you're a seasoned executive, an aspiring data leader, or simply someone interested in leveraging data for competitive advantage, this episode promises to inform, inspire, and empower you on your leadership journey.

Join us as we explore the intersection of data, technology, and leadership, unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation in today's dynamic business landscape.

Join us for this week's episode of Books to the Boardroom, featuring Tony Berry, the dynamic Business Development Manager and Owner of Tidy Up. Tony brings a wealth of entrepreneurial expertise and strategic vision to the table, making this episode a must-listen for aspiring business leaders and seasoned professionals alike.

Through his journey as an entrepreneur, Tony has navigated the challenges of building and scaling a successful business, gaining invaluable insights along the way. From identifying market opportunities to fostering strategic partnerships, Tony's experiences offer a treasure trove of wisdom for those looking to make their mark in the business world.

In this episode, we delve into Tony's entrepreneurial journey, exploring the highs, lows, and pivotal moments that have shaped his approach to business development and leadership. Whether you're interested in launching your own venture or seeking inspiration to take your business to the next level, Tony's practical advice and real-world anecdotes provide valuable guidance for success.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain exclusive access to Tony's entrepreneurial insights.

In this episode of Books to the Boardroom, we are thrilled to welcome Jacob Muraca, the accomplished COO/CFO of Bondi Sands, as our esteemed guest speaker. With his extensive experience in finance, operations, and strategic leadership, Jacob brings a wealth of knowledge and insights that are invaluable for today's business leaders.

Throughout his career, Jacob has demonstrated a remarkable ability to drive growth, optimize processes, and lead teams to success. Join us as we delve into his journey, exploring the strategies, challenges, and lessons learned along the way. From his role as a key executive at Bondi Sands to his previous experiences in finance and consulting, Jacob shares practical wisdom and actionable advice that can inspire and empower leaders at all levels.

Through engaging conversations and thought-provoking anecdotes, Jacob offers a glimpse into the inner workings of a fast-paced and innovative organization, shedding light on the principles of effective leadership and strategic decision-making. Whether you're a seasoned executive, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone curious about the secrets of business success, this episode promises to inform, inspire, and invigorate your leadership journey.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain exclusive access to Jacob Muraca's insights and expertise.

In this episode of "Books to the Boardroom," we are honoured to welcome Lorraine Finlay as our distinguished guest speaker. Lorraine brings a wealth of expertise in constitutional law, human rights, and public policy, making her insights invaluable for leaders navigating complex challenges in today's dynamic world.

Drawing from her extensive background and diverse experiences, Lorraine delves into key topics relevant to leadership development and organisational strategy. From her work as a legal scholar and advocate to her involvement in shaping public policy, Lorraine offers a multifaceted perspective that transcends traditional boundaries.

Join us as we explore the intersections between law, governance, and effective leadership, uncovering practical strategies and thought-provoking insights that can drive positive change within organizations and communities alike. Through engaging discussions and meaningful anecdotes, Lorraine inspires listeners to rethink their approach to leadership and embrace opportunities for growth and innovation.

Whether you're a seasoned executive, an aspiring leader, or simply someone passionate about making a difference, this episode of Books to the Boardroom promises to ignite your imagination and empower you to lead with confidence and purpose.

In this insightful episode of "Books to the Boardroom," we are honoured to host Rimma Gayfullina, the financial controller at GoSee. Recognised as the 2022 New Zealand Emerging Finance Manager, she has an extraordinary story that begins in Eastern Russia. It's here that her fascination with international accounting emerged. In our discussion, Rimma unfolds her transformative journey, emphasising how her academic pursuits in accounting expanded her outlook, underscoring the vital role of a global perspective in the finance sector.

Rimma details her ambitious move from her small hometown to join KPMG, one of the prestigious Big 4 accounting firms. Her narrative takes an exciting turn when she talks about seising an unexpected opportunity with the Auckland KPMG office, a decision that shaped her career path despite not having her certification at the time.

Beyond her professional achievements, Rimma discusses her leadership roles in Rotaract in Europe, and her engagement with the global expat community, showcasing her adaptability and cultural acumen. She also delves into her experience founding MoneyMindLab, an initiative dedicated to empowering women in the realms of finance and business.

This episode offers a deep dive into the world of international finance, leadership in multicultural settings and the journey of an immigrant reshaping her career in a new country. Her story is a testament to the power of embracing opportunities and the importance of a global mindset in today's interconnected financial landscape. Join us for an episode filled with valuable insights for professionals navigating the dynamic world of global finance.

Welcome to Books to the Boardroom podcast, where we delve into the essence of leadership through the stories of remarkable individuals. In this episode, we're honored to host Peter Nijmeijer, the CFO at Heritage Lifecare.

Peter's journey is a tale of unexpected turns and valuable lessons. It all began with his deep connection to music, particularly the piano, which he recently rediscovered as a source of relaxation and focus.

However, what truly set Peter on his path were two pivotal moments. Firstly, during his university days, he found himself promoted to a weekend store manager at a supermarket, leading a team of 25 employees. This experience revealed his innate qualities.

Secondly, exposure to an exceptional leader in a previous role left an indelible mark. This leader, respected and approachable, ignited Peter's interest, shaping his journey.

Peter's drive stems from a desire to guide, impact, and influence positively. Transitioning from a technical background, he faced challenges like shifting from a functional to an enterprise-wide role and mastering formal stakeholder relationships.

In an unexpected twist, Peter embarked on a life-changing journey from Europe to New Zealand, embracing new opportunities. This experience, while unconventional, added depth to his journey.

Join us for an insightful exploration of Peter's evolution on Books to the Boardroom.

Step into the world of leadership with Sigal Pilli, the Chief Financial Officer of Seer Medical, on this week's episode of Books to the Boardroom. Sigal's journey is nothing short of remarkable, and she's here to share her experiences and leadership insights.

Nearly two decades ago, Sigal immigrated to Australia with her partner and three children, embarking on a profound adventure filled with challenges and triumphs.

Her early exposure to leadership dynamics occurred when she accompanied her father to his clothing factory during school holidays. At just 16, Sigal managed the factory in her father's absence, igniting her passion for leadership.

Early in her career, Sigal prioritised learning and mentorship, shaping her future success. Leading a team as a Financial Controller, she fostered open and transparent relationships, guiding her team members.

During her tenure at Envato, Sigal faced unique challenges as her responsibilities expanded significantly. Learning to embrace this dynamic and master delegation were crucial lessons she gleaned as a leader.

Intriguingly, Sigal once worked as a security officer at an airport, assessing passengers' risk levels and even participating in thrilling drills.

Don't miss this captivating episode, where Sigal shares her extraordinary life journey and invaluable leadership insights on Books to the Boardroom. Join us for inspiration and insight into the world of leadership.

Embark on an inspiring leadership journey as we delve into the remarkable career of Denice Bennett, Group CFO of Third Age Health, in this week's episode of Books to the Boardroom.

Denice's journey is a striking testament to her exceptional leadership acumen, one that originated in a completely different realm—working with a London-based karaoke company. Her story showcases her remarkable ability to recognise and seize unanticipated opportunities, steering them towards transformation.

What truly distinguishes Denice as a leader is her unwavering focus on actively chosen opportunities, rather than dwelling on the paths she didn't take. Her leadership style is nothing short of inspirational; she leads by example, opting to lead from behind, thereby empowering her team to excel.

Denice's extensive background, including a Master of Business Administration (MBA), Bachelor of Business Studies (BBS), Chartered Accountant, and Certified Change Manager qualifications, equips her with the tools to seamlessly merge her passion for change with meticulous attention to detail and astute business acumen.

Join us as we delve deep into the profound impact of Denice's leadership style, her mastery of change management and how her relentless pursuit of excellence has made her a true exemplar in the realm of leadership.

We're thrilled to host Anthony Quinn, Founder of Arctic Intelligence and Co-Founder of AML Accelerate.

Originally from the UK, Anthony's journey is a testament to resilience. Facing sponsorship challenges during his gap year in Australia, he turned setbacks into opportunities, ultimately creating a unique path back. His corporate experience includes roles at major banks like Goldman Sachs, Westpac, ING and Macquarie, where he juggled entrepreneurship while bootstrapping his own business.

In 2015, Anthony founded Arctic Intelligence, offering innovative audit, risk and compliance software platforms. A significant moment came in 2016 when he co-founded AML Accelerate, now a market-leading platform under Arctic Intelligence, revolutionising AML compliance efforts globally.

With over two decades as a management consultant, Anthony's early career at Accenture in London involved advising top-tier clients like Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. Since his move to Australia in 2003, he's played pivotal roles in high-profile programs at Macquarie Bank, Westpac and the National Australia Bank.

As a member of the RegTech Association Advisory Committee, Anthony actively shapes the future of regulatory technology. Beyond his professional achievements, he finds balance on the Northern Beaches of Sydney with his wife and two children.

Join us in this episode as Anthony Quinn shares insights into his journey, the evolution of Arctic Intelligence, and the transformative impact of AML Accelerate on Books to the Boardroom.

We are absolutely ecstatic to have our very first guest speaker from the USA with us today – please give a warm and exhilarating welcome to Judy Farcus Serra, the brilliant CFO of Headquarter Automotive!

Judy is a prominent figure in the automotive industry in Florida, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to excellence. As the CFO, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring the financial health and growth of the group's multiple dealerships, which include well-known brands like Toyota, Honda, Mazda, and Hyundai.

Judy's journey in the automotive sector began over three decades ago, and she has risen through the ranks, showcasing her innovative and resourceful nature. Her dedication to long-term planning and her expertise in financial and operational matters led her to become the group's first and only CFO.

What sets Judy apart is her ability to pay attention to the finer details. She introduced the "5 Star Wall of Fame" at the dealership, a small yet impactful initiative that brought clients and customers together. Judy understands that success often lies in the small things that fill in the big blanks.

Her achievements extend beyond her role as a CFO. Judy is a sought-after keynote speaker, sharing her insights on leadership and empowering women in the automotive industry. She values continuous learning, and her appointment to an association responsible for the lobbying and bills in the Florida auto industry underlines her commitment to the field.

Judy's vision for the future is ambitious. She aims to make her organization the best place to work and is actively working towards expanding the dealership group to encompass 12 locations, which will provide employment opportunities for over 1,500 employees.

In this week's episode of Books to the Boardroom, we welcome James Harvey, the Head of Strategic Alliances & Growth at Energy Locals. James is not your typical corporate leader. Before embarking on his successful corporate journey, he spent an impressive 16 years as a professional basketball player, achieving remarkable milestones like 2 x NBL championships, captaining the Australian Boomers at World Championships and playing in the EuroLeague while living in Italy and Israel. He's a true testament to the power of determination and perseverance.

He believes that true success isn't just about hard work or luck but emerges from consistent effort, continuous learning and well-informed decision-making. James shares his five pillars for sustained success and how his MBA journey at AIB (Australian Institute of Business) has further shaped his approach to leadership. Here's a sneak peek at what you can expect:

Lone Wolf Mentality: James introduces the concept of the "Lone Wolf Mentality," emphasising the importance of intrinsic motivation and developing a growth mindset. He draws from his experiences in basketball and explains how self-belief and resilience are key factors in achieving success.
You Miss 100% of the Shots You Don't Take: James delves into the idea that success is about preparation meeting opportunity and the need for unwavering self-belief. He shares personal anecdotes and discusses the power of embracing pressure and taking calculated risks.
It Is Better to Have People's Respect Than Their Sympathy: James speaks to the sense of pride that comes from proving doubters wrong and not seeking sympathy. He reflects on a pivotal moment in his basketball career and the wisdom his father shared with him, emphasising the importance of earning respect.
Always Resort to Plan A: James highlights the importance of playing to one's strengths and building a supportive network. He provides insights from his time as a basketball player and how focusing on what you do best can lead to success, even in the face of challenges.
Focus on the Process, Not the Result: He discusses the significance of establishing personal trademarks and non-negotiables and applying them consistently in both professional and personal life. He encourages listeners to focus on the journey and the development of good habits.

James' journey from the basketball court to the boardroom is a testament to the power of self-motivation, perseverance and adaptability. His story will inspire you to embrace challenges, develop your own toolkit of skills, and continuously strive for excellence in your leadership journey.

"Do I want to be a scientist or do I want to be creative and do arts?" In this week's episode, we had the privilege of welcoming Dr. Paul Gavin, the CEO of Avecho Biotechnology Limited.

Dr. Gavin's story is a captivating blend of art and science, taking him from film school, where he aspired to be a writer and director, to the world of biotechnology. Along the way, he's had a diverse range of experiences, from winning an Australian Karate title to tending to bees as an apiarist, and even indulging in hobbies like painting, dry-stone wall building, and carting rocks from various corners of the world.

As a strong advocate for storytelling, he has seamlessly woven his passion for the arts into the world of science. His journey from individual contributor to a leader with a team has provided him with a unique perspective on leadership, learning valuable lessons from leaders he's encountered throughout his career.

He's seen both the positive and negative aspects of leadership, particularly in the challenging field of clinical drug development, where success and failure are part of the game. Dr. Gavin shares insights into how leaders should handle these situations and emphasises the importance of not taking all the credit, as well as being true to yourself as you climb the leadership ladder.

Join us as Dr. Paul Gavin shares his remarkable story, the lessons he's learned along the way and his unique perspective on leadership in the ever-evolving world of biotechnology.

In this captivating episode of Books to the Boardroom, we dive into the remarkable journey of Michelle Gallaher, a digital health entrepreneur, speaker, advocate, and the visionary founder of Opyl Ltd, TrialKey, and Opin.ai. With a deep-rooted passion for AI and data science, Michelle is a robust leader in these dynamic fields.

What sets Michelle apart is not only her impressive career but her exceptional leadership style. She believes in the power of storytelling and is equally committed to being an active listener, valuing her team members' visions and contributions, regardless of hierarchy. Her upbringing, with both parents as entrepreneurs, instilled a unique blend of creativity and a profound love for science and technology.

Michelle's perspective is both inspiring and enlightening. She encourages us to shift our focus from what we want to do to the impact we want to have, a philosophy that has shaped her extraordinary career. She shares the importance of mentorship, offering invaluable insights gained from her own mentor, who emphasised the critical role of company culture, asserting that a company is only as strong as its people. Michelle has created a nurturing environment built on a "no blame" culture, and she passionately advocates for its significance.

Throughout this episode, Michelle also motivates us to take time for ourselves when needed and to embrace ambition while taking calculated risks. Her journey from books to the boardroom is a testament to the power of vision, mentorship and the courage to pioneer new horizons.

Today we welcome Andrew Bond, the CEO of 8Common. Andrew's leadership narrative isn't just about the corporate climb; it's a deeply human story of personal and professional growth. His remarkable odyssey at 8Common began in the role of a customer success manager, where he embarked on a journey of learning and development. Over time, with unwavering determination, he climbed the rungs to become the CEO, a role that comes with a wealth of insights and experiences.

As we explore Andrew's journey, we also uncover the innovative products that define 8Common. The company, publicly listed on the ASX, is celebrated for its two flagship offerings: Expense8, a sophisticated tool for travel and expense management, and CardHero, a cutting-edge technology platform tailored to provide tailored card payment solutions for enterprise organizations and government departments.

Andrew's story is a reminder that leadership is a journey of growth and development, and his rise to the helm of 8Common underscores the power of commitment, adaptability, and an unshakable spirit. So, get ready for a conversation that not only sheds light on the leadership ethos but also unveils the innovative products driving 8Common's success, offering valuable insights for leaders and aspiring leaders alike.

Today we sit down with Mohammad Ali Shah, a seasoned leader with over a decade of senior management experience and the CEO of I-Synergy Group Ltd. Mohammad shares his remarkable insights from his journey in business strategy, operations and cultivating impactful partnerships within both the private and public sectors.

Throughout his journey, Mohammad has encountered valuable lessons, some of which he learned the hard way. In this episode, he shares four guiding principles that have been instrumental in his personal and professional development:

Making mistakes is an essential part of learning and growing.
Time is a priceless commodity that cannot be purchased with money.
Always approach things with the principles of functionality and utility.
Effective communication is achieved when you can present your ideas in a way that anyone, even your mother, can understand and appreciate.

These principles serve as a compass for navigating the complex world of business and leadership. He emphasises the importance of emotional intelligence alongside logical thinking. Leadership requires a balance between cognitive strengths and an understanding of emotions, regardless of one's age or experience.

At the intersection of science, technology, business and positive impact, Mohammad envisions a world where deep tech entrepreneurs can drive meaningful change. He's a strategic thinker with a wealth of experience in consulting, research and building capabilities for startups and global companies.

Join us as we explore how he thrives on creating and scaling businesses and extends his support to passionate entrepreneurs, leaving an indelible mark on the world of innovation and leadership.

Get ready to dive into the inspiring journey of James Brennan, CEO of Linius (ASX:LNU). Known for his analytical prowess and process-driven approach, James has led software and SaaS product development for both established corporations and startups, consistently achieving success. His extensive background in product management, sales, marketing and finance showcases his ability to grow businesses, uncover latent potential, and foster exceptional teams and cultures.

Currently serving as the CEO of Linius Technologies, James is at the forefront of unlocking the value of global video content. Linius introduces a groundbreaking way to personalize and curate video experiences, empowering users to create personalized compilations seamlessly. Under James' leadership, Linius has achieved unprecedented financial milestones, secured major partnerships, and launched scalable SaaS offerings.

James' influence goes beyond Linius, having led transformative growth phases at Integrated Research, Kaltura, BlueJeans Network and Polycom. Notably, he has orchestrated the launch of innovative SaaS solutions, expanded into new markets, and turned stagnating ventures into thriving market leaders. With a global perspective spanning Asia, North America and Europe, James is a master of SaaS business transformation, harnessing data-driven insights to reshape products, pricing, revenue models, and sales strategies.

Join us for this episode as we delve into James' remarkable career journey and gain valuable insights from his strategic expertise that continues to shape the technology landscape.

In the latest episode of the "Books to the Boardroom" podcast, we are honoured to have James Fielding, CEO of Audeara, as our guest speaker. James is a remarkable individual who combines his medical background with a passion for invention, music and innovation. He is driven by a deep commitment to improving lives and refuses to accept the status quo when it comes to healthcare.

As a doctor, he's witnessed firsthand the impact of preventable hearing loss on his patients. Instead of accepting the limitations of existing solutions, he chose to take action and founded Audeara, a company dedicated to bringing groundbreaking audio technology to the masses. This move not only demonstrates his entrepreneurial spirit but also his dedication to making a difference on a larger scale.

One of the key aspects of James's leadership style is his constant pursuit of knowledge. He understands the value of surrounding himself with individuals who can teach him something new. This mindset not only fosters personal growth but also enhances his ability to lead and inspire others in the healthcare field.

By challenging the traditional norms and constantly seeking innovation, James serves as an inspiration to those in healthcare. His refusal to accept "the way it is" showcases his determination to overcome obstacles and create positive change. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact that a single individual can have on an entire industry.

During the podcast, we will delve deeper into his leadership philosophy, his journey from being a doctor to becoming the CEO of a pioneering audio technology company, and the lessons he has learned along the way. We hope that this conversation will not only inspire our listeners but also encourage them to embrace their own ability to effect change and make a difference in their respective fields.

Tune in to the latest episode of "Books to the Boardroom" as we explore the remarkable leadership journey of James Fielding and gain insights from his experiences in healthcare and entrepreneurship.

Today we sat down with Jing Lim, the esteemed COO and CTO of Osteopore, a global leader in regenerative solutions. Jing brings a wealth of expertise in biomaterials for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with an impressive publication record of 14 articles in internationally peer-reviewed journals.

Since joining Osteopore in November 2014, Jing has played a pivotal role in the company's regulatory and quality milestones, ensuring the highest standards are met. Additionally, he has spearheaded the expansion of the product and therapy portfolio, driving innovation and creating new opportunities for improving lives worldwide.

Tune in to this enlightening conversation as Jing shares his passion for developing new ways to enhance the lives of people across the globe. Discover how his engineering background and dedication have propelled Osteopore to the forefront of regenerative medicine, empowering patients to overcome limitations and embrace a brighter future.

Don't miss out on this captivating episode as we delve into the inspiring journey of Jing and witness the transformative potential of regenerative solutions.

In this week's edition, we are thrilled to host Daniel Lai, the accomplished CEO of archTIS, an ASX award winning, global technology company. Daniel's exceptional leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence have positioned him as a driving force in the ever-evolving landscape of data security. He shares his compelling story, taking us from his humble beginnings to the helm of a renowned organisation.

As the visionary CEO of archTIS, Daniel has been at the forefront of groundbreaking advancements in secure collaboration, data protection and national security solutions. His lifelong passion for footy, coupled with his early entrepreneurial experiences in the world of technology, has played a pivotal role in propelling archTIS to the forefront of the digital age. His belief in the inherent uniqueness and talents of individuals has shaped archTIS's success, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry. By harnessing the power of diverse strengths and fostering a culture of innovation, Daniel has led archTIS to remarkable achievements, driving its continuous growth and inspiring excellence within the organization.

Don't miss this enlightening episode as Daniel takes us on an unforgettable journey, highlighting the transformative impact of his personal and professional life. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a tech enthusiast, or simply a lover of great stories, this episode of Books to the Boardroom promises to leave you inspired and eager to embark on your own literary and professional adventures.

Tune in now to gain exclusive insights from a true visionary as he shares his remarkable journey from books to the boardroom.

Welcome to the Books to the Boardroom podcast! Today we welcome guest speaker Linda Scott, Founder and Managing Director of Thinking Leaders. Linda is a finance executive with nearly 30 years of experience and a high-performance leadership coach and consultant. Linda is also a finalist for Leadership Coach of the Year.

As the founder of Thinking Leaders, Linda is dedicated to helping CEOs, business owners, and senior leadership teams maximise their performance, achieve extraordinary results, and cultivate a life of choices, time, and self-confidence. With her specialisation in leadership, career growth, decision making, team performance, communication effectiveness, and profit optimisation, Linda has made a significant impact on over 7,000 business owners and executives globally.

Not only is Linda a renowned leadership coach, but she is also a skilled professional speaker, facilitator, and host. Her ability to engage and inspire audiences is well-recognised. Linda's mantra, "Change Your THINKing and Change Your RESULTS FAST," emphasises the transformative power of mindset in attaining success.

Join us as Linda shares her invaluable insights, strategies, and experiences on self-leadership, perspective, and the importance of shifting one's thinking to drive high performance in leadership.

Martial arts can help one cope with failure, learn from mistakes and handle the stresses in business. Through it, you can learn and apply skills that can help you realise your potential and make you feel proud of what you have accomplished.

Today we speak with Karen Young, the Global Tax Director at Flight Centre. Her impressive career started with one of the big 4 accounting firms as a graduate, before moving overseas and working in the “Big Apple” of NYC. She shares her story on why she decided to leave her job at EY, how martial arts played a huge role in her successes, her leadership style and approach and so much more. We were even lucky enough to find out that Karen is a 3rd Dan black belt! How awesome is that?

Books to the Boardroom is hosted by Sumith Dissanayake, CEO of Brisca.

It’s true that being a startup founder can be incredibly stressful. From creating a business model, to seeking out funding from investors and creating a product that is desirable—these are all things a founder must deal with.

Today we speak with former AFL star, Brad Moran. He shares his stories about the pressure to become the next big tech player has at times been crippling and the constant comparisons and battles with competitors are relentless. After retiring from the AFL due to injury, Brad launched his first e-commerce tech company, NoQ at just 24 years old. NoQ quickly evolved into a leading grocery platform across the US and Australia, and six years later he left to start his second company called CitrusAd.

Despite the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc on the Australian business landscape, MA Financial stepped up with funding to help CitrusAd increase its revenue by more than 10 times in 18 months. French company Publicis acquired CitrusAd for $205 million in July 2021 and is now one of the world's largest retail media providers.

The episode features Brad's leadership journey, challenges he faced as a startup founder, his experiences as an elite AFL player and so much more.

Books to the Boardroom is hosted by Sumith Dissanayake, CEO of Brisca.

Hutchinson Builders, also known as “Hutchies” has been building across Australia for 110 years and is currently the largest privately owned construction company in Australia. The company employs 1,600 staff, builds over 300 projects annually and turns over approximately $3 billion each year.

Today we speak with Scott Hutchinson, Chairman at Hutchinson Builders. From a young age, Scott knew he wanted to be involved in the family business. He had been working at Hutchies during his school holidays before becoming full-time in 1986. Taking over his father's position as Managing Director in 1992, he was exposed to all aspects of one of the fastest growing businesses in Australia. We hear about some of the challenges he faced as Managing Director, how growth affected the company both positively and negatively and how he invested in his passion for music here in Brisbane.

This episode was hosted by Sumith Dissanayake.

It’s been a big year for Kate Farrar, CEO of Brighter Super. Brighter Super was formed in July 2021 from three smaller superannuation funds including Energy Super and LGIAsuper. Currently, the fund has 255,000 members and has around $30 billion under management. She shares her experience of consolidating the back office systems, underlying portfolios and bringing together a team under a new single administrative system which is now known as Brighter Super.

Before Brighter Super, Kate spent 8 years building an electric retailer start up, QEnergy. Before selling the company, she grew QEnergy to 25,000 members and generated around $100 million in revenue. Kate also shares some background on her undergraduate degree in music, her first job at NSW Treasury Corp as a Bond Quantitative Analyst and her time abroad as a DJ. You don’t want to miss this episode.

Have a listen to the full episode here: https://bit.ly/3Nikos4

This episode was hosted by Sumith Dissanayake.

Growth is a journey that requires the entire business to constantly adjust, optimise and execute, but it starts at the top. Only when the CEO, C-suite, and business-unit leaders have the right mind-set can leaders hope to drive growth across the entire organisation.

Today we speak with Jade McCarthy, Head of Global Acquisition and Growth at Global Payments. As a seasoned growth leader, Jade has developed and implemented top line growth strategies by taking teams through multiple growth phases to expand into new markets, acquire new customers and positively impact top line growth. By embracing design thinking and building empathy with the customer, she believes the whole organisation benefits, and this is evident in her leadership style.

Additionally, Jade shares a bit about her upbringing in the UK, time spent in Russia, previous leaders who have helped mold her into the leader she is today and so much more. You’ll definitely be inspired after the stories and lessons Jade shares on this week's episode of Books to the Boardroom.

Have a listen to the full episode here: https://bit.ly/3Nikos4

This episode was hosted by Sumith Dissanayake.

Today we speak with Paul McCartney, Chief Clean Futures Officer of Clean Energy Finance Corp (CEFC). CEFC aims to accelerate Australia's transition to net zero emissions by 2050 in agriculture, cleantech innovation, energy generation and storage, hydrogen, infrastructure, property, transport and waste.

Paul has been with the CEFC since its inception and leads the origination and transactions team in deploying $10bn to finance renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. He has been involved in financing over $3bn of clean energy related projects including Australia’s first equity fund for bioenergy and energy from waste – the $200+ million Australian Bioenergy Fund. Throughout the interview, we discuss how Paul managed to make his way to the c-suite by 30, how CEFC navigated through COVID times and so much more.

You’ll definitely be inspired after the stories and lessons Paul shares on this week's episode of Books to the Boardroom.

This episode was hosted by Sumith Dissanayake.

For a woman in business, it can be lonely at the top. Historically, the representation of women in the boardroom has been shamefully low, and equitable hiring at companies across the board has left much to be desired. But slowly, change is coming.

On today’s episode of the Books to the Boardroom podcast we meet with Jo Jessop, CEO of Multicap. Jo is such an inspiration for all women looking to break into the c-level suite. Her story reveals how she went from being a pharmacist to heading one of Australia's leading disability organisations. She talks about her role in guiding Multicap through the challenging COVID times, gender inequalities, provides purpose driven leadership advice and so much more.

You’ll definitely be inspired after the stories and lessons Jo’s shares on this week's episode of Books to the Boardroom.

This episode was hosted by Sumith Dissanayake.

Franchising makes people rethink leadership. Mostly because as soon as you get that ﬁrst franchisee, you are no longer in the business of business. You are now in the business of supporting people. Speciﬁcally, you have to shift your focus to your franchisees, clients, customers and the corporate team.

After more than two decades in the franchise industry, it is safe to say that John O’Brien, CEO of Poolwerx knows what it takes to cultivate growth-minded teams with an aligned mission and positive culture. He found that having a solid mission, taking courageous actions in support of that mission and inspiring and supporting others has enabled Poolwerx to thrive not only in Australia but around the globe.

An important takeaway from John’s podcast is that your job as a leader of a franchise system is not to have all the answers or do all the work. Your job is to create an environment and culture that nurtures those around you so you can all better accomplish your goals and carry out your aligned mission.

You’ll definitely be inspired after the stories and lessons John’s shares on this week's episode of Books to the Boardroom.

This episode was hosted by Sumith Dissanayake.

Mentoring is super important for leaders because, put simply, it brings the best out of the people you lead. Mentoring generates confidence, inspires trust and fast-tracks team development. A big part of your own leadership development is determining what sort of a leader you want to be.

In today’s podcast, we welcome Ross Thompson, CEO of PeopleIN. Since the beginning of his career, Ross has been leading teams in corporate, sporting and military environments. He has built profitable and sustainable professional services operations everywhere from Australia to Asia and the Middle East. He tells us how he followed in his brother's footsteps and joined the military, and how a handwritten letter helped him land a job in Abu Dhabi. You won't want to miss this Books to the Boardroom podcast episode!

Good leaders are hard to come by. They never stop learning and continually work on developing their skill and character to become an even better role model for others. However, a great deal of leadership development comes from overcoming difficult and uncomfortable situations.

In today’s podcast we welcome Shankar Kotha, Chief Commercial Officer of Arise Hotels and Apartments. After studying hospitality in uni, Shankar was fortunate enough to land a job with Addison Hotels before taking on a role that led him to opening resorts in the Maldives. Just before starting this new position, the devastating 2004 tsunami hit Sri Lanka. But even when everyone around him thought he should forgo this job, Shankar went with his gut and headed to the Maldives. Find out what happened when he got there and tune in to hear how he is currently giving back to the local Brisbane community.

This episode was hosted by Sumith Dissanayake.

Who needs a coach? What does executive coaching look like? How does it work, and does it work for all? These are just a few questions Rob Balmer, Executive Coach and CEO of Executive Central answers on today’s episode of Books to the Boardroom. Rob shares his experience of his first introduction to executive coaching and how it ultimately transformed his performance as a leader. We hear about how a performance review became his "wake up call" and his appreciation for constructive feedback. You won't want to miss the story about how joining the band, Jungle Studs, helped him grow professionally and personally.

This episode was co-hosted by Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson.

In today’s podcast, we welcome Allan Cooney, CEO of The North Australian Pastoral Company. Allan has been leading teams and taking risks from the young age of 28 when he took over his family’s farm. He has since been involved in all sorts of top level management roles across a diverse range of industries. Some of his experiences include working alongside the Chief Minister in the Northern Territory to a year and a half expedition in Antarctica with the Australian Antarctic Division. Listen in to hear how Allan overcame different challenges and the unique lessons he learned along the way.

This episode was co-hosted by Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson.

In today’s episode we welcome Calvin McDonald, Head of Australian Operations at BrewDog**. This BrewDog “lifer” shares experiences from his 14-year career on how he went from working as a part-time bartender during his economic degree to dropping out and pursuing his newfound passion for craft beer. We explore Calvin’s journey of how he was able to overcome challenges of expanding into new markets and how his passion for beer and the BrewDog brand enabled him to become the passionate leader he is today.

This episode was co-hosted by*Sumith Dissanayake* and Jack Ferguson.**

This is the first time Sonia Chadburn, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NAK Hair, shares her story of how she transitioned from a Chartered Accountant in London to a renowned CEO of a leading international hair care company. As a mom and executive, she talks about how she manages her everyday life, as well as juggling three young children. Sonia discusses the importance of emotional intelligence and how having a trust-building leadership style has helped her become the leader she is today.

This episode was co-hosted by SumithDissanayakeand Jack Ferguson.

Josam Watson is Chief Risk Officer (CRO), of digital banking company Tyme.

Having an exceptional life starting in Zimbabwe where he couldn’t afford shoes as he was growing up, Josam has grown into an exceptional leader over the course of his career. This podcast details that journey.

We talk about:

How the development of a Chief Risk Officer has occurred.
The value of root cause analysis and how it can help organisations from failing.
Why Josam thinks individuals are easy to blame in leadership but this isn’t necessarily the best way to fix problems.
The story of a pedantic leader who shaped him and made him realise who he didn't want to be.
How he asks himself whether he is being the kind of leader he said he wanted to be when he is making critical decisions.
What it was like to watch banks fail in real-time and what he believed went wrong.
His challenging teenage years in Zimbabwe and how that still influences him today.

And Much More.

This podcast episode was co-hosted by Jack Ferguson and Sumith Dissanayake.

On today’s episode we are speaking to Peter Wolff, Managing Director of Wolff Coffee Roasters.

It seemed he was always meant to build a business in coffee as Wolff is spelled with two ‘f’s, like how coffee has two ‘f’s.

In this episode we speak about:

Building his coffee business when he was young.
How Peter credits a couple of mentors with shaping his approach to business and leadership at an early stage in his life.
How he faded out (but didn’t drop out) of Law school to pursue a career in hospitality.
A move to Melbourne in his early life to work in hospitality and start a coffee business.
How he has built a culture in his company with an attitude towards continuous improvement.
And
How Covid really impacted the hospitality sector and his business? Peter talks about how hospitality has changed significantly and what changes he believes will be permanent.

Peter is full of fun anecdotes, wisdom, and leadership advice.

This episode was co-hosted by Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson.

Today we are very fortunate to have a shark on the show.

That shark is Dr Glen Richards, Investor and Director of The Richards Group, Ex-CEO of Greencross, and an investor on Shark Tank Australia from Season 2 - 4.

He chatted to us about all things entrepreneurship and leadership.

As you can imagine, Glen is a wealth of knowledge and was very generous with the insights he shared and the stories he told on this episode.

We talk about:

What life is like after Shark Tank
How his companies did during Covid.
His thoughts on the Great Resignation.
In what ways employers are on notice, and what employees need from their workplaces.
What he needs to see in an entrepreneur to invest in them.
His own transformation into a leader and the 2 specific moments in his life that ignited that transformation.
The value of the Rockefeller Habits and why he has been using them for years.
How leaders can develop themselves.
What he thinks about the current state of leadership in Australia.
And
What advice Glen has for young people coming up through the ranks now.

Jack Ferguson and Sumith Dissanayake co-hosted this episode.

Today we are speaking to Ben Flintoff, COO of QTM Energy

Having just moved on from a successful tenure as GM of Baskin Robbins, a well-known brand, Ben speaks about why he made the move into a completely different industry and what to think about if others are thinking of doing the same.

It might appear like an unusual decision on the surface but we take the time to really unpack what it’s like to make a big change after you are already established in your career.

We also speak about:

How important it is to build strong relationships over time.
How he made a difficult decision to repeat a year at school when he was younger.
What others can learn from his self-described ‘Canada Moment’ and what that means for communication styles.
The importance of Agitators in a team.
What his thoughts are on recruiting people.

And

All his thoughts on leadership.

Jack Ferguson and Sumith Dissanayake co-hosted this episode.

Today’s guest is Sharyn Williams, CFO of G8 Education.

In this episode you will hear how Sharyn was impacted by Covid. G8 Education is a company that runs a number of childcare centres around Australia, so this past year and a half has been very difficult. We speak about that at length.

Other topics we discuss include:

How Sharyn’s team reacted to Remote Working during Covid.
How Sharyn got her first shot at leadership when she was playing sport for Australia.
How and why Sharyn thinks that leadership can come from anywhere and from people without leadership titles.
What happened when she was thrown in the deep end throughout her career.

And

How having imposter syndrome has impacted Sharyn. But interestingly, how it has also helped her.

This episode was co-hosted by Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson.

Today's guest is Michael Hentscher, CFO at The Scooter Group.

Michael tells us about growing up in Outback Queensland and some of the culture shocks you can expect when coming to work in the city.

Beginning his career in the city, Michael shares valuable insights as to what those first few years were like.

Michael shares his experience watching those who get promoted to management positions based on their technical proficiency, and not necessarily their management skills. We cover this topic in depth on this episode.

What was unique about Michael’s mentors was that he had different people give him totally different view points. What do you do when you have mentors that do that? Is it helpful to have such different perspectives in your ear? We discuss this at length.

Finally we speak about how Martial Arts can be great for one’s personal development, and why Michael has put so much effort into studying this over the years. Listen to how he says it helped him.

This episode was co-hosted by Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson.

Today’s guest is Toni Hawkins, CFO of Armour Energy.

Toni’s interest in leadership started very young, and we go back to her school days to discuss how this interest came to be, and how that set the grounding for her career.

We cover a range of other topics in this episode including:

Why Toni chose not to work in the Big 4 Accounting Firms.
What her first year was like at Qantas. This was the year 9/11 happened, she talks about what that day was like.
We talk about the value of dealing with conflict sooner rather than later.
How feedback should be viewed as a gift
Her leadership philosophy.

And

How she has traveled to 70 countries, along with some intriguing stories from her travels.

Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today we are speaking to Thomas Mackie, Financial Controller at Imaging Solutions.

As someone who has worked in the Medical industry for his career, Thomas speaks to us about what that decision has meant for him, and what challenges it presents.

Having taken a non-typical path, Thomas didn’t pursue a job in the Big 4 and got into Senior roles when he was very young. We talk about what the implications were for that including managing people much older than him.

He’s worked for a wide variety of leaders and speaks to how different people develop you differently, from those who are super detailed to those who are hands off.

We also speak about what working in senior management does for your communication skills, and what he has learned about leadership over the last 5 years.

Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today we are speaking to someone who has had an extensive career in Finance, Michelle Cooper.

Bucking the trend for Finance Professionals, Michelle has a passion for life and adventure. You can find her skydiving and motorbike riding on the weekends.

But this isn’t the only uncommon aspect to Michelle’s story. She talks to us about how she made a career change away from Finance early on and why.

She shares with us her lessons around leadership, and what she learned from one particular leader who had a very unique style. She describes this as the best lesson she was ever taught in her career. More on that in the episode.

Michelle also defines the difference between being a manager and a leader. It's important to know the difference.

It was a pleasure to get to know Michelle, she is someone who loves a challenge, and we're sure you will get a lot out of this episode.

This episode was co-hosted by Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson

This episodes guest is Mark Tobin, CEO of Followmont.

Followmont is a Family Business in the Transport industry, and Mark shares some of the effects Covid had on Transport.

He talks about how he communicated with his team throughout Covid and lead the business through the pandemic.

Mark talks about how talent is moving in Australia and how he has built and kept the best quality team regardless.

This episode involves an extensive discussion about how to surround yourself with the right people to achieve the best outcome, and of course we speak about Mark’s philosophy on leadership.

One story in particular highlights Mark’s ability to get a point across when he was in a boardroom full of staff members. Look out for that towards the end of the episode.

This episode was co-hosted by Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson.

Today’s guest is John Livesey, an established professional who is passionate about healthcare.

John is the Director of Finance at Wesley Mission Queensland, and this organisation like many were affected by Covid.

We speak about the challenges and pivots he had to make when Covid arrived.

We speak about his philosophies in leadership and how he gets the best out of his team and those around him, and specifically how to delegate with trust.

John has worked for the same organisation for many years, and he talks about how you can stay at the same place for a long time if this organisation has the right culture.

We explore John’s early forays into accounting and how his career has come to be.

This podcast was co-hosted by Jack Ferguson and Sumith Dissanayake.

Today’s guest is David Delaporte, CFO of Drifta.

Drifta was a company affected by Covid and we speak extensively about the challenges he had when the borders shut. Having a business that relies on freight and logistics, it wasn’t easy.

We cover a range of topics in this episode including:

Adjusting to remote work.
Taking on considerable responsibility early on in one’s career and what that means for future success.
Advice David received from a career counselor early in life
How a fateful discussion with a cleaner changed the way he thought about management.
How taking more of an interest in the business you work in gives more context and more value to the numbers.
We talk about imposter syndrome and how it can impact your career.
And discuss how to help underperforming teams improve.

Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today’s guest is Scott Richards from Beyond The Numbers.

Scott has a story that takes us from starting a business and advertising in the Yellow Pages through to working in Kenya, this episode has it all.

Scott talks about his first business and how difficult it was to promote himself when he wasn’t accustomed to doing that.

We talk about the composition of teams and getting the right mix of high performers and lower performers in a team.

We discuss mental models and how they can help someone throughout their career.

And we also chat about a new concept: Energy Management. Scott has many ideas around how to manage your energy and get the best result for yourself. Very interesting listening.

This episode was co-hosted by Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson

Today’s guest is Andrew Evans, CFO of Redpath Australia.

Andrew describes himself as 'Not your typical Accountant.' As you listen to his career and story you will be able to see why.

Having navigated much of his career through feel and gut, Andrew explains how he has made important decisions and his philosophy around leading others.

We also talk about:

Why he was encouraged to be an Accountant at a young age.
The 15-minute interview he still remembers.
His unique leadership style including being able to give out trust and respect from Day 1.
A unique mishap he had early on in his career.
How he has managed redundancies.
The importance of leaning on the people you trust.

And

Working in America, and what adjustments he made to make that work.

Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

On this episode, our guest is James Versace, CFO of the Brisbane Racing Club.

James was CFO of a business that was greatly impacted by Covid. The Brisbane Racing Club relies on in-person events, and James shares how he and his team have navigated the pandemic so far.

We also discuss:

His considerations when hiring someone.
What it’s like to be around senior directors reacting calmly under pressure.
His respect for technically brilliant people, but we also discuss the limitations such people can have.
Examples of poor leadership he has seen throughout his career.
What Accountants do to prevent growth.
And
His advice to a young Finance professional
And many other stories and anecdotes collected from James’ curious career.

This episode was co-hosted by Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson

Today’s guest is Caitlin Scantlebury, Head of Risk Culture and Assurance at LGIA Super.

Caitlin’s career path is anything but usual.

We speak about how she has worked directly under executives from the start of her career and what that has taught her about leadership.

We talk about how she always wanted to be a teacher before ultimately deciding to not go down that path.

Caitlin explains:

How working in risk can tend to bleed into her everyday life.
How she responded to being made redundant relatively early in her career.

And

How she was a perfectionist in her previous life and how that has evolved over time.

Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today’s guest is Matthew Hudson, Associate Director and Shareholder of SV Partners

Matt has built quite a reputation on Linkedin amassing 15,000 followers and posting most days.

He is someone who is passionate about insolvency and often speaks out for the industry.

This episode will give you an idea of why he is the perfect person to do this.

We speak about:

What song plays when he receives awards.
How he built his Linkedin following.
How he has built his confidence as an introvert.
The challenges of working in insolvency, specifically challenges around dealing with government and people winding up their companies.
How passionate he is about Director’s understanding their duties.
What books he has read that have changed his entire perspective on his career.
And
How he deals with office politics.

Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today’s guest is Guy Griffiths, CFO of PVH Brands Australia.

Today’s conversation is an interesting insight into someone who has spent much of their career in retail, and working up to becoming a CEO.

We talk about how Guy:

Flew in and Flew out for over 9 years.
Used Chartered Accounting as a passport to work around the world.
What his sabbaticals were like early on in his career.
What the benefits were of working in London early on in his career.
What you should focus on getting out of an MBA if you choose to do one.
What extended travel can do to your job prospects when you do eventually come back to Australia.

We also discuss what happens when Accountants become CEO’s and he details his own time as CEO of Wow Sight and Sound, including what he would do differently if he had his time again.

Another great episode with a professional who is full of knowledge.

The co-hosts of this episode are Sumith Dissanayake and Jack Ferguson.

Today’s guest is Rhydian James, CFO of Discova.

Working in the tourism industry Rhydian was one of those people affected by Covid and we cover what that looked like in detail.

We also discuss:

How Rhydian managed to work remotely and get up at 3am each morning.
How hard it is when your revenue goes from something to nothing.
His entrepreneurial endeavours during high school.
Why Rhydian respects people who have worked in hospitality jobs when they were young.
The role culture plays in someone’s ability to contribute to a team.
And a new concept to the podcast ‘PQ.’ (Not IQ or EQ)

A great episode to start Season 2. We hope you enjoy listening!

In this episode, we are speaking to Jeremy Stewart, CEO and Managing Director at Trade Tools.

Jeremy is a very committed individual and has spent most of his working life at Trade Tools. As you know that is quite rare to see these days.

We cover:

His stint in Film and Television and why he stopped pursuing that.
How an unfortunate incident prevented him from entering the airforce.
The way his leadership and management skills have developed over time.
How he filled knowledge gaps midway through his career.
What it was like to start a Saas Company from scratch.
How he aims to take Trade Tools into the future.
And Much More

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

On this episode we are speaking to Duncan McHugh, Head of Finance at Nutrition Warehouse, and Co-Founder of One More Rep.

Duncan’s story is one of loyalty. Having a Dad who worked as a CFO for the theme parks on the Gold Coast for 25 years, Duncan is someone who didn’t find it strange to stay in roles for 10 years.

We also talk about:

How he spent time in a remote town in Northern Queensland early in his career.
What it has been like to start his own Accounting Firm.
What it means to ‘manage up’
And how he managed Covid as a leader at Nutrition Warehouse.

Another great episode with a great guest.

This episode was co-hosted by Jack Ferguson and Sumith Dissanayake.

Today we are talking to Kylie Sheather, Director of Finance Business Partnering at Technology One.

Kylie’s story is one of trusting your gut, going your own way, and making decisions for yourself.

She didn’t go to London like most people on the podcast have done before and doesn’t have an audit background but has still become a highly competent professional in her field.

We talk about:

How she was impacted professionally by the QLD Floods.
What it’s like to get a call at 2am in the morning needing to deal with a safety incident.
What it means to have a seat at the table and why it’s important.
What her leadership philosophy entails and how she became the leader she is today.
And how important it is to try things even if you feel you aren’t quite ready.

A great discussion with a talented professional.

Today our guest is Tanya Cain, CFO of Youi Insurance.

Tanya is an accomplished professional who shares plenty of advice.

We talk about:

What it is like working for such an iconic brand.
How the timeliness of information is more important than accuracy.
Knowing when it’s time to move on.
How her Dad would take her to business dinners when she was young and how that sparked her interest in business.
Adjusting to life in Australia, and taking a step back in her career to do so.

And much more.

A great guest, and a great discussion.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today’s guest is Keith Bailey of Blueprint Business Solutions.

Keith is a veteran of Finance, Accounting, and Management.

In this episode we discuss:

What it is like to have a Portfolio Career.
What he learned about converting clients faster when he worked as a consultant.
How he started his first business at 9 years old
Why he believes diversifying throughout life is important.
His leadership philosophy and how it developed at a young age.
The challenges he has had advising boards.
How you get a leadership team to talk when they don’t want to.

And

How to turn around companies that are under financial stress.

Another experienced guest sharing his wisdom on the podcast.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today’s guest is Pierre De Villiers, Partner at CFO on Call, and CEO of Your Profit Xpert.

In this episode, we discuss Pierre’s career which included living in South Africa, New Zealand, and now Australia.

It is intriguing to hear his perspective on how you can transfer skills across countries, his observations around different cultures, and what stays the same no matter what country you are in.

We spend time talking about:

Why you shouldn’t discount products
The role of Finance in Business
Why he stepped out of Finance and began Shark Diving.
The importance of Finance People having experiences outside of the P & L, and the Balance Sheet.
Decision Making and understanding the consequences of those decisions.
And
Direct and Indirect KPI.

An established professional, it was great to cover a variety of topics in this discussion.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today we are speaking to Kerri Siggs, CFO of Carter and Spencer Group.

Carter and Spencer is an unusual CFO role that Kerri likens to a live trading market. This is due to working with Fresh Produce, and Kerri details some of the challenges surrounding that.

Kerri also speaks about empowering women as an activator of SheEO, a global community of women helping other women to succeed.

From a young age, Kerri seemed to have a knack for acquiring jobs in unusual ways which she details in this episode.

As is becoming a trend on the podcast, we talk about more travel stories, some of Kerri’s challenges around moving to the UK, and what she looks for in an organisation's culture.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today we are talking to Brent Charlton, Director of Altitude Advisors

We talk about how he navigated the GFC in his business, and as an individual.

Growing up with 2 parents as business owners, it seems Brent was always destined to become an owner himself and became a director in his late 20’s.

For an Accountant, Brent had a very unique university experience by engaging with the process in a way that is not typical.

He talks about only changing jobs twice in his whole career which makes for interesting listening.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today we are talking to Brad Sheahon, Head Of Finance at Cromwell Property Group.

Hailing from New Zealand, he had nomadic parents and went to many different schools when he was young. It was interesting to hear how this set a foundation for the rest of his career.

He shares stories around navigating the GFC in London, where the effects were felt even heavier than in Australia.

We talk about the difference between management and being a technician, and how you can go about approaching both.

Brad believes that diversity of thought and different perspectives are great for business outcomes, so we talk extensively about how you can use diverse teams to get a better result for your organisation.

Like in every episode, leadership is discussed at length.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today’s podcast guest is Ian Judson of JudsonKoman.

What an interesting story Ian has.

We spoke about so many different aspects of Ian’s life and career. He has life-defining overseas experiences, spent time as a musician, and built himself into a skilled finance professional and business owner.

We discussed Stoicism which has never been explored on the podcast before, and Ian speaks about how he views his role and purpose at this stage of his career. It is very enlightening.

A great leader and skilled professional in the Brisbane Finance Industry, it was great to hear the impact Ian has had on his clients and the wider community.

Nathan Smith was the co-host of this episode.

Today we are talking to Stuart Dempster, co-founder of Changealytics.AI

Stuart has a fascinating story and was a great guest.

He speaks about:

Giving bad news to Richard Branson.
Raising millions of dollars for a business he owned.
Good and Bad examples of leadership AND his personal leadership philosophy.
Floating a UK company when something goes wrong.

And

His passion for Not For Profits.

Jack Ferguson was the co-host of this episode.

Today we are speaking to Craig Kurkowski, Finance and Accounting Lead of Helimods.

We talk about how he started his career in hospitality and how that led him to cook for the queen.

We discuss Craig's unconventional methods for tracking staff health and he shares an interesting metaphor around what fishing and leadership have in common.

As is becoming a trend on the podcast, Craig has some very unsettling travel stories.

We finish the discussion exploring what got him into working for such an interesting company, Helimods.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today we have another great guest on the show, Chris Mitchell, the CFO of Canstar.

You have probably heard of Canstar. But it wasn’t always so well known.

After being with the company for 13 years, Chris talks to us about how 20% of people recognised the brand when he first started, to now over 70%.

A great achievement that is fitting for such an iconic brand.

Growing up in rural Australia, Chris talks us through his journey from his early days of Accounting that took him overseas to London and Canada, and the many lessons that come from such wide and varied experiences.

A man that is full of wisdom and a real passion for his work, he was a pleasure to speak to.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today we are talking to Rod Facey, CFO of REIQ.

Rod talks us through his career and life and how he handled all the challenges that came at him with integrity. A natural leader, Rod got a chance at leadership at an age much younger than most.

He talks about how he handled a redundancy with dignity, how he determined what type of work he wanted to pursue, and what it was life to be in charge of a financial department during the GFC.

A man with a unique leadership style to talk about when it’s appropriate to be transparent and when you should choose to keep some details to yourself.

With a clear passion for Real Estate, he shares his investment journey, as well as some wild travel stories.

Jack Ferguson is the co-host.

Today we have another great guest, David Muir.

David is currently the MD of DS Energy.

However his career has been varied and not without challenges. He speaks about interesting events in his life such as breaking his neck, what happens when you love rugby but also work in it, and the strange world of solar which he refers to as the ‘solarcoaster.’

One particular story of interest was when David speaks about securing finance for a project, flying all the way to the UK to work on it, only to walk into a meeting off the plane where the money fell through. Tough times.

All in all, another great episode and guest.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today we are talking to Petra Corcoran, Director of Finance & Corporate Services at Emesent.

Petra is an accomplished professional with a fascinating background.

Strong in her conviction from a young age, we speak about the importance of sticking to your ethical principles, toxic cultures, and what it takes to build a harmonious finance department.

We talk about the importance of being patient when starting a new role, finding the right fit with a company to work for, and how to assess the vibe in an interview.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

We have another great guest on the podcast today, Andrew Job, the CEO of PlotLogic.

A veteran of the mining industry, Andrew is an accomplished professional, and now a high growth business owner.

Andrew talks us through his career in which he got into leadership positions at an age much younger than most.

A humble talented individual, Andrew is one of the first guests we have spoken to who has remained in one industry. He shares his insights into what that has meant for him.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today we speak to Andrew Gray, Finance Director of Qtectic.

He describes himself as the Accidental Accountant.

Starting his career in Audit, he has worked in Mining, Rail, and various infrastructure related companies.

Having worked across a number of industries, Andrew is a wealth of knowledge.

A sharp business mind, he speaks about how he is always willing to try a new challenge and believes strongly in taking full responsibility for your career.

A strong leader, he talks about how you should take the pain if you take the pay.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today’s guest is Thomas Sparks, CEO of Infinity 22.

It was a pleasure to hear how Thomas built such a successful business at a young age.

Having worked locally and overseas in Hong Kong, Thomas’s experience covers many disciplines and countries.

Now as he focuses on helping E-Commerce businesses, Thomas speaks about the decision to move his company in that direction, as well as his thoughts on leadership and remote work.

Nathan Smith co-hosted this episode.

Our guest on today's episode is Jag Olak, MD of Allevi8HQ.

With a strong background in Finance and CFO positions, Jag was a wealth of knowledge.

He has run his own pizza businesses and introduced us to the concept of a Chief Restructuring Officer.

As always, leadership was a popular topic of discussion.

Jack Ferguson co-hosted this episode.

Today our guest is Gary Oliver, a Veteran of Finance.

We were fortunate to speak to Gary on the day he retired at the end of a 45-year career.

Gary takes us through his career that involved working in mining, large corporates, and even discuss what it was like writing a strategic paper with no typewriter and no computer.

A gifted storyteller, Gary talks about the challenges of being in the workforce when the GST, Retirement Living Act, and Y2K Bug were coming into play.

We even discussed a Polar Bear story in this episode.

Nathan Smith co-hosted this episode.

In this episode we speak to Chris Lowndes, Group CFO of HopgoodGanim Lawyers.

What a story. This podcast was a lot of fun!

Chris has had a varied career. He talks about working at companies such as Woolworths, Doughnut Time, and his current company, HopgoodGanim.

We talk about good and bad leadership. Chris points out that he has learned a lot from poor leaders as well as great leaders.

When Chris first decided to become a CFO, he talks about the struggle of moving from the Sydney market to the Brisbane market. We are sure a lot of professionals can relate.

A well-rounded individual, Chris also discusses his philanthropic work, and his experience authoring a book.

Our guest today is Richard Jacobitz, CFO of STG Global.

Richard brought a unique perspective to the podcast around data and insight. Often we hear people talking about not having enough data, or enough insight. Richard actually discusses why he thinks too much data and insight is a bad thing and how that can create decision-making problems.

A self-described extrovert, Richard talks about the considerations he makes when relating to members of his team who may not operate the same way he does.

We also discuss the effect AI is going to have on the Accounting industry. A worthwhile conversation to be having as the world continues to change as a result of the global pandemic and emerging technologies.

Nathan Smith co-hosted this episode.

In this episode Brisca Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake speaks to Damien Hicks, CFO of Entag Group.

It was an enjoyable conversation with a talented individual.

We discuss Damien’s early life as a water polo player, and how an unfortunate rugby incident at university affected him.

Damien talks about an experience he had in his career where he intended to resign from a job, only to rethink it, retract his resignation, and perform well for time to come.

Like most businesses, Damien’s has been affected by Covid-19, it is always interesting how another business has reacted to the pandemic, Damien’s story is no exception.

Our guest today is Robert Easton, CFO of Oncore.

We discuss Robert’s career all the way from England where he had a short stint selling insurance premiums through to working as a Management Accountant at a Kitchen Manufacturing Business, and for a Cinema business.

Robert talks about the difference between Management Accounting and Financial Accounting. This is an important topic that Accounting and Finance Professionals need to know.

Robert currently resides in Australia where he is now executing a leadership role at Oncore.

This episode wasco-hosted by Nathan Smith.

Our guest today is Scott Richardson, CFO of Burrana.

In this episode we discuss what Scott believes makes a CFO effective. We also talk about how Accounting professionals often approach a fork in their career where they have to decide to become a manager of people, or dedicate themselves to becoming an amazing technician.

We speak about the portfolio career that is now possible for CFO’s, but also point out that one must be committed to that type of career to make it work.

A true professional and a pleasure to talk to, Scott was a fantastic guest.

This episode wasco-hosted by Nathan Smith.

Our guest today is Brett McCallum, CEO of Virtech.

Having spent just a single day at University, Brett didn’t take the usual path. Now running a global business, Brett credits his success to being able to stay in his lane.

We talk about being burned by business partners, dealing with failure, but also dealing with success.

A great guest, and a fun discussion, Brett brought a great energy to the podcast. Enjoy!

This episode wasco-hosted by Amanda Campbell.

Our guest today is Andrew Ritter, the owner of Pleiades Corporate Services.

Andrew talks about how difficult it was at the beginning of his career to get a job at an Accounting Firm. Sometimes the perception is that you finish your studies and are guaranteed a job, this isn’t the case.

We speak about his background working at a startup company and transitioning from an Accounting Firm to a commercial environment.

He also speaks about the importance of delivering bad news first, as well as Cashflow, Forecasting, and unique ways of adding value.

One of those ways to add value is as a company secretary. This is a seldom discussed skillset and it was enlightening to get Andrew’s perspective.

This episode wasco-hosted by Nathan Smith.

Our guest today is Stephen Lonergan, CFO of Village National.

In this episode, we explore a range of topics and get Stephen’s insight into how his career transpired.

We talk about leadership, and the importance of leadership pathways when deciding how to treat your staff, negotiating big deals, and team development.

We explore Stephen’s philosophies on embracing technology, and hear why his “Integrity isn’t for sale.”

This episode wasco-hosted by Amanda Campbell.

Today’s guest is Dr Andre van Zyl, Regional Director at The CFO Centre, Queensland.

Growing up in South Africa, Dr Andre talks about how the leadership lessons he learned from his time in the military helped shape his career.

He then speaks about his move to Australia after having built a career in another country, we speak about the adjustment period that followed.

With his work at The CFO Centre, Dr Andre explains how CFO’s can transition into a portfolio career from a corporate career and what they should expect when doing so.

This episode's co-host is Amanda Campbell.

Today’s guest is Jason Atkins, CEO of Cake Equity.

Jason speaks about his early life and how a move to London did wonders for his career. A driven individual, it was inspiring to see how confidence and competence can take someone through a successful Accounting career. A strong resume includes a role at Mastercard.

Jason then talks about his transition from the world of Accounting to becoming a business owner and leader.

He speaks about companies he has started and takes us on the step by step journey to becoming the CEO of Cake Equity today. Listening to his story was an awesome experience.

This episode's co-host is Nathan Smith.

Today’s guest is Adam Campbell, an accomplished professional who now holds an enviable position as CFO of one of Australia's most iconic brands, Flight Centre.

This episode is a great insight into how Flight Centre has been affected by Covid-19. Adam was very forthcoming about how this has affected him personally and how he has responded to such adversity.

When talking about his journey to becoming the effective executive he is today, Adam talks extensively about the importance of culture, how important it is to understand who you are, and what it takes to be a leader. You won’t be disappointed listening to Adam’s story, as he shares his career journey with openness and transparency.This episode's co-host was Amanda Campbell.

Today’s guest is Zac Zahner, a man who has held many positions in the c-suite and at board level.

This episode is a great insight into how competent governance plays a vital role in determining the ultimate success of a company. Zac talks about board experiences he has enjoyed and also those that left him disappointed.

Having spent time working as CFO and other positions in the c-suite, Zac was a wealth of knowledge. We think you will really enjoy his candor and good nature.

This episode's co-host was Nathan Smith.

Today’s guest is Jason Titman, an accomplished professional who has worked for a variety of companies throughout a varied career.

Throughout this episode, we explore the ups and downs of Jason's various business ventures, and what he thinks is integral to a startup or small business to succeed.

A true critical thinker, Jason shares his views on how Australia should embrace technology, and what his time spent on various boards has taught him.

Today’s guest is Andrew Rogers, an accomplished professional who has worked in resources, professional services and as an Executive Advisor at QUT Business School.

Throughout this episode we explore Andrew’s views on leadership, getting the most out of your staff, how and who to hire, and what important traits an Accountant must possess. Having worked in many positions within the C-Suite, Andrew is a wealth of knowledge and a great storyteller.

Brendt Munro, Director of Altor Capital shares his story with us today.

In this episode we talk about the way Accountants should speak to clients to add the most value.

Sacred cows are discussed and Brendt emphasises the importance of addressing them for business growth.

His thoughts on leadership were interesting and our favourite quote was when he said ‘Leadership is taking people on a journey they want to be on.’

This episode was co-hosted by Amanda Campbell, and Sumith Dissanayake.

Ollie Visser, Chief Financial Officer of Videopro Group shares his story with us today.

He talks about the choices he made to become the person he is today and shares some interesting theories on how we make the decisions we do.

We talk about personal growth, and what he learned from struggling to get a job out of university, all the way through to becoming the CFO he is today.

Amanda Campbell co-hosted this episode.

Today we are talking to Nicky Lonergan about her career and how she came to be CEO of Archers - The Strata Professionals.

Nicky talks us through her story of movingfrom a career in Finance to end up in a leadership role, her honest assessment of work-life balance, and her views on management.

Nicky shares some candid stories about how she moved industries and views her role as CEO now.

This episode is co-hosted by BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Amanda Campbell.

Today we are talking to Paul McCartney about his career and how he came to be a Chief Clean Futures Officer.

Paul talks us through his story of movingfrom a traditional accounting path into a leadership role, balancing business purpose with the need to be financially sustainable, and his thoughts on managing staff.

Working in clean energy, Paul has some very interesting views on legacy and what he is helping build for future generations.

This episode is co-hosted by BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Gerard Doyle.

Today we are talking to Peter Jamieson about his career that has had him become the CEO of Cox Industries.

Peter talks us through his story of working his way up through sporting organisations, to finally land as the CEO of Cox Industries. A fascinating story of grit, determination, creativity, and leadership.

This episode is co-hosted by BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Amanda Campbell.

Today we are talking to Alan Sparks about his career that has seen him become the CEO of Cellnet.

Alan talks us through his remarkable story of changing the fortunes of many companies around while experiencing numerous challenges throughout his career.

This episode is co-hosted by BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Amanda Campbell.

Today we are talking to John Knight about his career that involved working his way up from an Accountant to a Managing Director.

We talk about what he has learned about managing his staff, a life-changing trip to Mongolia, and what his plans are for the future of his company Business Depot.

This episode is co-hosted by BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Amanda Campbell.

Ben Mannion speaks to us about his career that involved banking and leading numerous sporting organisations.

Now the CEO of Queensland Touch, Ben talks us through his story that got him to this point. It involves many ups but also some difficult periods that were shared with raw honesty.

This episode is co-hosted by BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Amanda Campbell.

Gordon speaks to us about a career that has spanned many professions and roles.

Gordon is a strong storyteller as you will hear throughout this episode. A keen business mind, great people skills, and an inquisitive nature all make Gordon the type of guest we love having on this podcast.

This episode is co-hosted by BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Amanda Campbell.

Phil was a fantastic guest, where we explored his thoughts on what is missing in the world of management, how he turns off and enjoys his weekends, and ways in which you can build your influence as you ascend through your career.

A very intelligent man who has spent a lot of time behind the microphone made this a pleasure to record.

This episode is co-hosted by BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Amanda Campbell.

Elena's story is a fascinating one. Growing up in Russia, Elena speaks about the challenges involved in moving to another country. She also speaks about her love for Australia and all the opportunities she has been given.

A very high energy episode, Elena details how she rose above many challenges throughout her life to become the leader she is today.

This episode is Co-Hosted By BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Amanda Campbell.

Bob’s career involved working in banking spending time in both the commercial and the community side, before eventually becoming the CEO of Maleny Credit Union he is today.

Bob has some great advice for young people who are starting out in their career or even those in the middle of their career. Full of rich stories, and a natural storytelling ability, Bob was an outstanding guest.

This episode is Co-Hosted by BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Amanda Campbell.

Michael’s career involved working as an Accountant, starting his own business abroad, and working until now working as CEO of Xact Accounting.

Michael details how he became the leader he is today and what each step in his career taught him. Full of rich stories, timeless advice, and a passion for outsourcing, Michael provided great quality advice for up and coming Accountants.

This episode is Co-Hosted by BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Amanda Campbell.

Brian’s career involved working as an Accountant, working in local government, in banking, and becoming the CEO of Eastern Suburbs Tigers.

Brian details how he became the leader he is today and what each step in his career taught him. Full of rich stories, and a passion for Rugby League, Brian spoke about what he thinks makes a strong CEO, and was honest about the challenges that go with it.

This episode is Co-Hosted by BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Jack Ferguson.

Phil’s career involves working as an Accountant, moving overseas to work in investment banking, returning to Australia, buying a pub, and becoming the CEO of NAPCO.

Phil details how he became the leader he is today and what each step in his career taught him. Full of rich stories, and a passion for business, Phil was a pleasure to interview and is fully deserving of the respect he holds within the Australian business community.

This episode is Co-Hosted by BRISCA Managing Director Sumith Dissanayake, and Jack Ferguson.