Stephen has a long history of working with and advising businesses – over 30 years now. He loves working with clients to help them achieve business success. His ability to see the bigger picture and think strategically makes him an invaluable asset to the clients he works with. Coupled with Stephen’s aptitude for strategic thinking is his excellent technical knowledge and understanding.
Stephen is passionate about ensuring that business owners make the most of their life’s work – maximising and protecting their financial position as they move from their business into retirement. Business Succession, Financial Planning and Estate Planning Strategies – these have become a real focus of his business advice.
Outside of the office, Stephen has always been a contributor in the community and is a past chairman of the Eastern Football League and former Board Member of AFL Victoria.
His escape is usually in the forest on his mountain bike or on the golf course or occasionally catching a wave.
Professional Experience
Stephen is one of the founding partners of accounting firm, ATM Consultants (established in 1993), and has worked largely in a tax and business advisory role during that time.
He has also been providing Financial Planning Advice for almost 10 years and this has led to specialisation in Business Succession and Estate Planning.
His expertise and contribution have been well-recognised by CPA Australia, and he has held a number of important roles with CPA Australia, including Chairman of the Public Practice Advisory Committee of CPA Australia.
Education and Certification
B Bus, Dip Ed, Dip FP, FCPA
A Bachelor of Business and Diploma of Financial Planning are combined with Stephen’s Diploma of Education and leads to his ability to explain key concepts simply, which Stephen sees as his real strength. This ability to explain complex, technical concepts has been well recognised in his role as a Technical Trainer and facilitator for CPA Australia.
Skills and Expertise
- Stephen has a particular set of skills that are well suited to Succession Planning.
- A strong background in General Tax, Capital Gains Tax, and Business Structures.
- Financial Planning and Estate Planning including SMSF expertise.
- Maximising Value and making your business attractive to potential buyers.
- Chair of Advisory boards to facilitate a transition of management to the next generation.
Projects and Achievements
Stephen has worked with a number of clients to help them achieve successful business exit. Clients with turnovers ranging from $5mill pa to $50m pa. Some have been sold to multi national businesses and allowed the owner to retire. Others have been passed on to family members.
Online Content
Video: Why you should always have your business ready for sale. Watch it here.