Going that extra mile

When seeking sound accountancy advice, financial expertise is a must. But finding a firm that will also flex to meet your needs, is a bonus. BMO Accountants understands that achieving the best financial result means going that extra mile for both clients and staff.

The firm has a culture of developing positive staff interactions to promote more productive client relationships. It's a strategy that is paying dividends with a reliable team of experienced accountants trained in a variety of accountancy skills and motivated to deliver outstanding service.

Regular professional development training and a flexible work environment ensure skilled advice is delivered in a friendly atmosphere. Practice manager Barry Jordan says, "When you look after staff this flows back to your clients. This is a key factor in delivering exceptional service.

"By tailoring our services to meet individual needs we strive to make every client our greatest advocate. "We look at each client's situation, work out the assistance required and deliver the right answers."

The firm is locally owned and operated, employs 24 staff, and welcomes young people interested in taking on internal traineeships in both accounting and administration. Partners in the business Adrian Rasmussen and Kelvin Tyler joined founding partner Peter McKinnon after progressing as trainees within the firm - an opportunity that arose following the retirement of co-founding partner Martin Browne.

Since 1988 BMO has offered a traineeship program that allows trainees to work full-time and study externally before going on to complete full-time Bachelor studies. Kelvin started as a computer clerk before progressing to an assistant accountant position and spent the next two years completing full-time studies later returning to BMO as a qualified accountant.

Adrian began as a trainee accountant with BMO and within 10 years progressed to partner where he plays a key role in determining the firm's future directions. More recently, Kylie Becker joined the BMO team after graduating from high school in 2000 and is now working as an assistant accountant studying externally to complete a degree in commerce.

"We provide flexibility so staff can go to university, work here on holidays and gradually take on full-time employment. These and other benefits provide a pleasant work environment while promoting morale," says Barry. And there's an equal opportunity for women to progress facilitated by the firm's willingness to accommodate family responsibilities.

"If you're looking for a career in accountancy and looking for somewhere that will recognise your achievements then this is the place to work."