Ambitious Accountants Podcast

Redefining the Role: Modernizing the Accountant's Image with Jared Le Roy

In this episode of the Ambitious Accountants Podcast, host Sumith Dissanayake sits down with Jared Le Roy, Director of Embark Accounting Limited in Dunedin, New Zealand. 

Jared discusses his mission to redefine the stereotypical image of accountants as boring number crunchers. He emphasises the importance of client relationships, innovative services, and leveraging technology to enhance the role of accountants. 

The conversation touches on Jared's career journey, the challenges and rewards of running a small accounting firm, and the need for financial literacy. Jared also shares insights into adopting technology and strategic hiring to improve service delivery and business growth. 

This episode provides valuable insights for accountants looking to innovate and transform their professional practices.

Got something to say about the future of accounting in NZ? Let’s chat — you could be our next guest. 

Email - [email protected]

In this episode of Ambitious Accountants, Jay Wijesekare sits down with Wayne Buck, Principal of Wayne Buck Consulting, to explore Wayne’s unique journey from city life to a peaceful rural setting while running his accounting consultancy. Wayne shares his rich experiences in the accounting world, from the traditional manual processes of the 70s to navigating today’s cloud-based accounting.

Listeners will gain valuable insights as Wayne reflects on the importance of caring for clients beyond just financial reports, emphasising the need for accountants to take on an advisory role and build genuine relationships. He also touches on the psychological aspects of running a business and how emotions drive decisions—a fresh perspective in the world of accounting.

Wayne’s thought-provoking take on the evolution of the accounting profession and the mindset shift needed to thrive in today’s world will inspire both aspiring accountants and business owners alike. This episode is a must-listen for those who are ready to challenge conventional practices and create meaningful client connections.

Join us as we dive deep into Wayne’s journey, his career, and how he’s championing a new wave of client-focused, consultative accounting.

Got something to say about the future of accounting in NZ? Let’s chat — you could be our next guest. 

Email - [email protected]

In this episode of Ambitious Accountants, host Jay Wijesekare sits down with Willie Eyles, Director of FreeUp, a firm based in Auckland that specializes in accounting for non-profits. Willie shares his unique journey into the accounting world, starting from a career choice driven by the promise of financial freedom, to discovering his true passion for helping non-profits succeed.

Willie takes us through his diverse career, from working with big firms like PwC to becoming a business partner at New Zealand Cricket, and eventually starting his own firm. He reflects on the challenges and rewards of working with non-profits, and how FreeUp was born out of his desire to help organizations that often struggle with funding, resources, and expertise.

Throughout the conversation, Willie discusses the complexities of accounting in the non-profit sector, including handling foreign currency, reporting back to grant providers, and implementing systems for better financial management. He also dives into his personal growth as a business owner, the importance of finding balance, and how advisory services have become the most fulfilling part of his work.

This episode is packed with practical insights and advice for anyone interested in accounting, non-profit work, or building a successful business with purpose.

#Accounting #NonProfitAccounting #BusinessGrowth #Finance #AdvisoryServices #Leadership #FreeUp #WorkLifeBalance #PersonalGrowth

Got something to say about the future of accounting in NZ? Let’s chat — you could be our next guest. 

Email - [email protected]

In this episode, Jay Wijesekare has a heartfelt chat with Nikhil Khatri, Principal of Worrells Queensland, about his fascinating journey into the world of insolvency accounting. Nikhil opens up about how his early experiences around family businesses sparked a passion for numbers, eventually leading him into accounting, banking, and finance.

He shares the pivotal moment when he stepped into the world of insolvency during the global financial crisis of 2008, and how that defining period shaped his career. Nikhil takes us through the highs and challenges of insolvency, highlighting the importance of managing relationships, communicating transparently, and helping businesses in distress find a way forward.

On a personal note, Nikhil reflects on his 16-year journey at Warrells, discussing the balance between his professional responsibilities and his deep commitment to guiding people through tough times. His story is filled with insights on how building genuine connections, staying resilient, and embracing every challenge have been key to his success.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the human side of accounting, with practical tips and inspiring lessons for aspiring accountants and business owners alike.

#Insolvency #Accounting #Finance #PersonalGrowth #WorkLifeBalance #Leadership

Got something to say about the future of accounting in NZ? Let’s chat — you could be our next guest. 

Email - [email protected]

In this episode, Jay Wijesekare chats with Stephen Hill, Finance Director at Opportuna CA, about his inspiring journey in the world of accounting. Stephen shares his experiences working at big firms like EY and PwC, how he became CFO of a global company, and the importance of constantly learning and upskilling along the way.

We also dive into his work where he’s helping startups thrive in New Zealand’s Taranaki region. Stephen highlights how building genuine connections and embracing new opportunities have been key to his success, and he offers great advice for anyone looking to grow in the accounting profession.

On a personal note, Stephen talks about balancing his busy career with family life and the importance of making time for what really matters.

It’s an nsightful conversation filled with practical tips and life lessons you won’t want to miss!

#Accounting #Finance #Startups #InnovationHQ #OpportunaCA #Relationships #WorkLifeBalance #PersonalGrowth

Got something to say about the future of accounting in NZ? Let’s chat — you could be our next guest. 

Email - [email protected]

Join us as we chat with Adam Coleman, Managing Director of Neovia, in this special 25th episode. Adam shares his journey from leading a thriving accounting firm to overcoming challenges and the importance of going beyond just tax compliance.

We dive into how building long-term relationships and fostering a strong company culture have been key to Neovia’s success. Adam also speaks about his involvement as an active member of Russell Bedford International and how the organization has played a crucial role in Neovia’s growth.

Plus, Adam offers valuable advice for aspiring accountants on embracing the diverse opportunities in the field.

Don’t miss out—tune in now!

Got something to say about the future of accounting in NZ? Let’s chat — you could be our next guest. 

Email - [email protected]

In this episode of Ambitious Accountants, our host Jay Wijesekare sits down with Nathan Watt, the Director of Watson and Watt. Nathan’s journey to a top-notch accountant is nothing short of inspiring.

From the challenges he faced to the lessons he learned, Nathan shares his unique perspective on the accounting profession. He emphasies the importance of being practical and understanding the real-life implications of numbers.

Whether you’re an aspiring accountant, a business owner, or just someone interested in the world of finance, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice.

Tune in now to hear Nathan’s incredible story and get inspired to take your career to the next level!

Got something to say about the future of accounting in NZ? Let’s chat — you could be our next guest. 

Email - [email protected]

In this episode of Ambitious Accountants, Jay Wijesekare chats with Stephanie Crawford, an amazing bookkeeper and business coach from New Zealand. Stephanie’s switch from banking in the US to bookkeeping and coaching in New Zealand is truly inspiring. She shares her experiences of starting and growing her business, balancing family life, and tackling the challenges bookkeepers face today. 

Stephanie also talks about the importance of community support, treating your business as your best client, and protecting your margins. Plus, hear success stories of bookkeepers she’s coached, including one who grew from a solo practice to a team of 14. Whether you’re in bookkeeping, thinking of starting a business, or just curious about finance, this episode is full of great tips and advice. 

Tune in now to get inspired by Stephanie’s journey!

#AmbitiousAccountants #Podcast #Bookkeeping #BusinessGrowth #Inspiration #StephanieCrawford #BusinessCoaching #CareerJourney #PracticalAdvice #CommunitySupport

Got something to say about the future of accounting in NZ? Let’s chat — you could be our next guest. 

Email - [email protected]

Join us on this episode as we sit down with Sam Harith, Director of SH Advisory from New Zealand. Sam shares his unconventional journey into the world of accounting, starting from practicality and evolving into a thriving business.

Listen in as he talks about launching SH Advisory during the COVID-19 lockdown, his unique management style, and the growth of his firm. Sam also dives into his creative project, “The Comic Accountant,” where he combines his expertise in accounting with his love for drawing.

It’s a conversation filled with genuine insights and inspiring stories about resilience, creativity, and the importance of communication in accounting.

#Podcast #Accounting #Finance #AmbitiousAccountants #Entrepreneurship #TheComicAccountant

Got something to say about the future of accounting in NZ? Let’s chat — you could be our next guest. 

Email - [email protected]

Numbers whiz by day, changemaker by night? Felicity Hill, Director Frank Accounting joins us to discuss her life's journey in accounting and her passion for diversity & inclusion in the field. 

Who else is ready to break the mold? 

#AmbitiousAccountants #WomenInAccounting

Got something to say about the future of accounting in NZ? Let’s chat — you could be our next guest. 

Email - [email protected]