James Ridley Email and Phone Number

James is the Head of Baumgartner Audit, bringing with him over 25 years of experience in audit, consulting and transaction services. Throughout his professional services career, James has specialised in providing external audit services to owner operated businesses, partnerships, large proprietary companies and small cap ASX listed companies.James has experience in auditing a range of industries including manufacturing, retail, logistics, mining, financial services and state and federal government spanning the APAC region and throughout the UK and US. In the last 5-10 years James has developed a suite of expertise that sits under the wider umbrella of 'litigation support' including forensic accounting, fraud investigations and business valuations for owners preparing their business for sale or listing, in addition to providing an accurate value for family estates and separations.With James' experience in industry, he has been on both sides of the external audit process which enables him to provide an effective and efficient audit approach that meets his clients expectations and needs, with minimal disruption to their daily operations.

Responsible for leading the Executive Team and setting the strategy for ISTA in combination with the Company Director. Managed the Treasury Function, setting cash flow budgets and establishing funding requirements for the company.Successfully managed the transition of service delivery from traditional face-to-face to online "live" training during Covid-19 pandemic enforced shutdowns of education and training facilities, thereby ensuring continuity of business.Implemented new financial reporting processes and system to improve quality and timeliness of financial reporting to both internal and external stakeholders.Developed an improved Quality Management System to prepare the company for re-registration as an RTO by the Australian Skills Quality Authority.

Set up new audit company in partnership with a colleague. Built up a client portfolio from scratch through the application of various business development activities. These involved utilising existing networks and developing new networks and avenues for fee growth.Designing and implementing an appropriate audit methodology for external audit clients assignments, ensuring it was compliant with Australian Auditing Standards.