After a corporate career spanning over 30 years, Jamie decided it was time to explore other business opportunities and take control of his own destiny. With his background in accounting and international financial services, owning and managing a TaxAssist practice appeared a natural fit.
Jamie started his career with KPMG in Sydney where he qualified as a chartered accountant, before working with the firm in London for six years. A career in international banking with American Express followed where he served in various audit and COO roles in Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Egypt, India and London.
“My introduction to the network came through a former American Express colleague, Mike Melling, and a Discovery Day provided the necessary clarity on the operating model and confirmed the opportunity,” explained Jamie. “I was extremely fortunate a city-based practice was available for sale, and my due diligence was promptly completed with terms agreed shortly after.”
In June 2018, Jamie and his wife, Jennifer, completed the purchase of the TaxAssist Holborn practice. “As much as I enjoyed my corporate career experiencing different cultures and business environments, this is without doubt the most exciting period of my business career. I am continually amazed by the diversity of the clients who walk through the door, the variety of businesses we support and the pipeline of opportunity that arises through the various TaxAssist acquisition channels. The world certainly seems to be in Central London to do business, and TaxAssist has the resource and capabilities to support these small business owners.
"The TaxAssist in-house Tax Consulting Team has proved to be a critical partner for TaxAssist Holborn, providing expert advisory and consulting to both our clients and the firm. Our partnership strengthens client engagement and drives additional fee generating opportunities through the delivery of value added advisory services."
While the timing of the Holborn opportunity was fortuitous, Jamie is mindful of his fortune in inheriting the team of professionals that work in the practice. “With the quality and experience of the professional staff in the office I learn something new every day, especially in their interactions with clients and the relationships they have built as trusted advisors.”
Jamie is looking forward to developing the practice further and says, “The team we have in place in Holborn combined with the technology and operational support from the network, will provide a robust platform for growth in central London.”
October 2022