In this episode of From Go to CFO, we sit down with Chris Allenby, CFO of Lewis Land, one of Australia’s largest privately owned property groups, to unpack a career defined by ambition, adaptability and leadership under pressure.

Chris’s journey began early - joining KPMG as a cadet at just 18 and rising to partner by 32. Over a 12-year tenure as partner, he advised private and mid-cap companies, family businesses and high-net-worth individuals across a diverse range of industries, developing particular strength in property. But in March 2020, at the onset of COVID-19, Chris made a pivotal shift - from trusted advisor to in-house decision maker - stepping into the CFO role at Lewis Land.

What followed was more than a career move; it was a mindset transformation. Chris shares the realities of transitioning from chartered accounting into a high-net-worth family group, where influence gives way to accountability and strategy must be paired with execution. He reflects on reshaping the finance function, strengthening culture through decisive hiring, and balancing creativity with discipline within what he describes as a true collective.

This episode explores the nuances of leading in a private family business environment, the resilience required during periods of rapid change, and how Chris continually evaluates both his own capabilities and those of his team to stay ahead. It’s a candid conversation about leadership evolution, navigating uncertainty, and what it really takes to go from advisor to CFO.