Robert has been a chartered accountant for over 35 years, after a period in industry and commerce after graduating from Victoria University with a Bachelor of Commerce and Administration. As a result of time in commerce, employment by public companies and overseas travel, Robert has a broad view of commercial matters beyond the numbers. His approach is commercial, intuitive, lateral and practical. After stepping down as a full time Partner of RSM NZ Robert has more time to work with those who require advice around protection and accumulation of wealth through strategic investment and optimal taxing structures. Robert's much appreciated style is one of enthusiasm for clients' businesses, with an emphasis on strategies with lasting benefits. He is regularly asked to participate with client decisions on future direction, with his diverse experiences across many businesses sectors making him well suited to this. He also sits on a number of client boards of directors, as well as client advisory boards. He is a trustee of more than 50 family trusts. His experience over the years with small to medium sized, family owned businesses includes many innovative ideas that have added considerable value to create, consolidate and preserve clients' wealth. Many of these businesses are now very valuable. Speciality skills have led to client prosperity and growth through tax effective structures, debt leverage, wealth protection, governance, strategic planning, restructures through liquidation and amalgamation, and ultimately, business sales. These all complement Robert's broader client base that require regular financial statements and taxation compliance. Robert has worked with many clients who either have business and investments overseas, or are looking to structure their affairs as they immigrate to New Zealand. He has dealt with foreign tax issues, ably assisted by the worldwide network of Nexia firms. In particular, he has considerable experience with trans-Tasman issues involving cross border tax, business structures, and managing businesses in New Zealand whilst growing in Australian markets.