About
Career
I began my professional career in a selective scholarship program at UTS focused on accounting and economics, one of thirty students in the cohort. During this time I completed two internships which gave me an early look at how businesses actually run, and solidified my impression that I learn best 'on the job'. These internships led to a graduate position at Coca-Cola Amatil. My three years there included a secondment working alongside McKinsey on corporate strategy, which was my first real exposure to thinking about business at a higher level.
From Coca-Cola Amatil I moved to New York, for the international experience and because I wanted to test myself in a more demanding environment, but also because I just loved the city and wanted to experience living and working there.
I spent time at Crozier Fine Arts as Head of FP&A, working closely with the CEO on a partnership with Sotheby's, and then at J.P. Morgan in Global Real Estate Finance. New York taught me what it's like to work in a city where opportunity is everywhere, and gave me an appreciation for the nuanced cultural differences between the USA and Australia.
An opportunity at Square came up in San Francisco in 2019 and I took it. What was initially a corporate finance role grew significantly over the five years I was there as Square became 'Block', acquired 'Afterpay' and scaled rapidly. By the end of my time at the company, I was managing the Square Business Unit P&L and working closely with the Business Unit's CFO and CEO.
In 2021 I moved home to Sydney and straddled working remotely for Square before joining Xero as a Director, where I now lead three concurrent teams, spanning executive business partnering; data and revenue intelligence; and finance systems.
What I'm working on now
Most of my energy outside of my day job is spent developing an understanding of AI and its practical application, particularly in finance and operations. I'm building projects, testing tools, and trying to figure out where AI genuinely adds value in finance and strategy; as well as identifying where it doesn't - or doesn't yet. This website is one of those projects. The goal is to develop an informed perspective rather than just an opinion.
I'm also testing myself with writing economics articles, particularly on the Australian economy. Having to thoroughly research and think through identified problems, where there are implications to myself and other Aussies, is very rewarding. Improving my writing is also a deliberate goal I've set myself, and this has been a great way to work on it.
Outside of Work
If I'm not chasing my baby boy around you'll likely find me chasing swell and trying to fit a surf into my day. Surfing is my earliest and strongest passion. I started when I was about 10 and it has dictated my life ever since. I've surfed all over the world including Indonesia, Central America, the USA, Hawaii, New Zealand and Europe. It's something I hope I'm still doing well into old age, and it keeps me motivated to stay fit.
In a similar thread to surfing, I am most definitely an outdoors person. Spending time hiking with my partner and being outside is how I unwind. I have dabbled in some rock climbing as well, although my skills may indicate it's best I stay on the ground.
When I'm winding down I love my economics reading. Ray Dalio is a personal favourite, and I try to stay close to the latest business and macro news. It's ultimately the reason that I ended up in the finance arena.
I am always keen for a chat on the current state of the Aussie economy and its place on the world stage. Alternatively, I am looking to connect with other enthusiastic surfers as well!