Helly Hansen Australia commenced in 2014 as a subsidiary, effectively opening as start up with 2 employees and transitioned to a distributor in 2017. Having joined at the very beginning it has been an interesting journey shaping the expansion of the business to the operation it is today.As Financial Controller I have designed and developed the financial systems and processes to support operations, ensure compliance and identify opportunities for growth. Reporting directly to the Owner/Director my responsibilities cover the entire finance function end to end. Initially commencing as a one man finance department I was continually challenged me to do more with less. Seeking efficient processes was crucial to successfully reporting timely results and supporting commercial decisions. Expanding to a small finance team as the business grew into an omni-channel business, the finance function matured with the business, moving beyond a transactional focus to become integral to the commercial decision making process, planning and budgeting, reporting, statutory compliance, and process improvement, all whilst challenging the status quo of existing systems and processes - ensuring that they supported the evolving demands of the company's operations.

The True Alliance Group is one of Australia's leading distributors of 15 premium global fashion brands including Lacoste, Ben Sherman, Speedo, Coach, Lee, The North Face, Nautica and Reebok. True Alliance Corporate Services employs 1000 permanent & casual employees throughout Australia & New Zealand to service wholesale customers & 80 retail stores. Distributing product via wholesale, retail & ecommerce channels, major customers include David Jones, Myer and Rebel, whilst the retail stores operate in premium shopping destinations throughout Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Auckland. Reporting to the CFO my responsibilities covered the Group's Financial and Management accounts and budgets. Managing a transactional team of eight, including financial & management accountants, business analysts, accounts payable & payroll to add value to the organisation by providing intelligent financial reports supported by commentary as well as driving accountability by measuring performance against KPI's.During a sustained period of significant business expansion and change, maintained a steady focus on continuous improvement of controls, processes and systems to create efficiencies, meet deadlines, develop staff members and facilitate the smooth integration of new brands and businesses into the TA Group.Of critical importance was supporting the key stakeholders, including departmental & brand general managers, by building strong business relationship.

Reporting to the Financial Controller I was responsible for the preparation and analysis of financial and management reports, GST, FBT and audit pack for Reebok Australia Pty Ltd, which was at the time the main entity of the group.As part of the corporatisation of the finance department, my background enabled the evaluation of internal controls and transactional integrity of the general ledger.I enjoyed mentoring and developing the transactional team members, including assistant accountant, bank clerk and accounts payable to improve the standard of financial information reported to stakeholders and develop their skills.

Reporting to the Financial Controller I was responsible for the preparation and analysis of financial and management accounting statements, as well as GST and FBT returns. As well as analysis and review of monthly, quarterly and yearly results for local management and the US parent.

Responsible for planning, managing, executing and reviewing audit engagements across a diverse client base including FMCG, Technology, Entertainment, Education & Service industries.Assisted with the preparation of financial statements for local statutory purposes as well as international parent entities.I completed my professional year, qualifying with the ICAA.