Bruce Thomas Email & Phone Number

Nelson, New Zealand

Key Responsibilities:◊ As a member of the senior management group, control the finances and statutory reporting requirements of two charitable trusts with a complement of 100 staff, including 60 FTEs. ◊ Effectively manage and monitor the performance of 3 direct reports.◊ Prepare statutory accounts and present reports to the Board. ◊ Liaise with bankers, fund managers, auditors, external accountants, solicitors and industry groups. ◊ Prepare budgets and… Show more Key Responsibilities:◊ As a member of the senior management group, control the finances and statutory reporting requirements of two charitable trusts with a complement of 100 staff, including 60 FTEs. ◊ Effectively manage and monitor the performance of 3 direct reports.◊ Prepare statutory accounts and present reports to the Board. ◊ Liaise with bankers, fund managers, auditors, external accountants, solicitors and industry groups. ◊ Prepare budgets and special project reports. ◊ Assist with the recruitment of staff when required.Major Achievements:◊ Reduced accounting costs by modernising and bringing the entire Finance Office operation in house. This included setting up Xero and Flexitime and recruiting and training staff in their use. Currently involved in evaluating and selecting an HRIS system, updating budgets, and introducing a 30 year budget horizon and internal audit procedures, including review with external auditors. ◊ Established the National Financial Controller/Administrator Work Group across similar sized Hospices within New Zealand. Currently the unofficial Chair of the Group.◊ Entrusted with deputising for the CEO during periods of leave or absences.◊ Part of a recruitment panel hiring staff for administration and commercial roles. ◊ Successfully delivered presentations to non-financial staff on Kiwisaver, managed funds, saving, and financial awareness. ◊ Appointed member and organiser of the Audit and Risk committee. ◊ Integral part of the expenditure authorisation process.◊ Consistently meets or exceeds all expectations of the role. Show less

Nelson, New Zealand

Major Achievements:◊ Completed financial modelling, budgeting and projections for the Trust. ◊ Reviewed GL reporting systems, implemented Xero software, transferred opening balances to the new accounting system, and provided initial training to staff.◊ Reviewed and replaced the existing payroll system with Flexitime. This involved configuring Flexitime as well as providing training in how to use it.◊ Reviewed historic transactions, analysed and summarised data… Show more Major Achievements:◊ Completed financial modelling, budgeting and projections for the Trust. ◊ Reviewed GL reporting systems, implemented Xero software, transferred opening balances to the new accounting system, and provided initial training to staff.◊ Reviewed and replaced the existing payroll system with Flexitime. This involved configuring Flexitime as well as providing training in how to use it.◊ Reviewed historic transactions, analysed and summarised data, and prepared expert witness reports in close liaison with solicitors and an external Chartered Accountant. Show less

Nelson, New Zealand

Major Achievements:◊ Played a key role in developing and implementing estate and succession plans for clients.◊ Successfully managed estates and charitable trusts. This included accounting for and realising assets on behalf of the client.

Waipara Valley

Major Achievements:◊ Key involvement in taking this business from a start-up venture to recognition as a world class producer of ultra-premium wines. ◊ Initially employed to undertake all aspects of project planning and management, site selection and purchase, varietal selection, planting plans, equipment purchases, staff recruitment as well as managing the finances, sales and marketing of the business. As the business grew, so responsibilities increased and additional… Show more Major Achievements:◊ Key involvement in taking this business from a start-up venture to recognition as a world class producer of ultra-premium wines. ◊ Initially employed to undertake all aspects of project planning and management, site selection and purchase, varietal selection, planting plans, equipment purchases, staff recruitment as well as managing the finances, sales and marketing of the business. As the business grew, so responsibilities increased and additional appointments needed to be made. ◊ Implemented effective financial management as well as liaised closely with banks, auditors, government agencies, NZ based distributors and overseas importers to achieve objectives.◊ Successfully launched new products and sat on panels to discuss vintages and wine styles. Show less

Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand

Major Achievements:◊ Managed an extensive client portfolio comprising primarily SMEs in various industries and professions.◊ Employed professional and support staff, as well as provided mentoring and training within the BDO framework and as required by NZICA for staff development to full CA status.◊ Effectively led a team of 10 (CAs, ATs and support staff), as well as formulated innovative plans to achieve results in areas such as succession planning, refinancing and tax… Show more Major Achievements:◊ Managed an extensive client portfolio comprising primarily SMEs in various industries and professions.◊ Employed professional and support staff, as well as provided mentoring and training within the BDO framework and as required by NZICA for staff development to full CA status.◊ Effectively led a team of 10 (CAs, ATs and support staff), as well as formulated innovative plans to achieve results in areas such as succession planning, refinancing and tax planning.◊ Appraised, selected and implemented improved national Practice Management systems.◊ Organised a Toastmasters course for staff challenged by public speaking. Show less

Qualified Chartered Accountant

Bachelor Of Commerce