About Us

I have been involved in financial services since before SMSFs existed. I’ve generally been principal of my own firms and have had a wide range of practical experience in accounting, tax advice, financial planning, stock broking, mortgage broking, investment advising and as a dealer principal. I’ve specialised in SMSF compliance & administration, strategic advice, deed construction and education since 1994. I was one of the earliest members of the FPA and a foundation member of the SMSF Association. Most importantly, I’ve kept my sense of humour throughout.

I was CEO and major shareholder, along with Macquarie Bank and others, of an SMSF admin business which grew to be one of Australia’s largest. I sampled retirement for a short time after the firm was sold in 2009 but soon realised that would never happen as SMSFs are my passion. Further, I’m lousy at fishing and golf and my long suffering wife wanted some peace so I became manager for QLD/NSW and Head of Education for Cavendish Super. Following its purchase by AMP my role became Executive Manager, SMSF Education for Superconcepts which I thoroughly enjoyed. I maintained and facilitated the 3-day Adelaide University SMSF Intensive, created and delivered numerous SMSF courses and presentations and was actively involved in the accreditation and subsequent mentoring of a significant number of SMSF practitioners.

With the realisation that corporate life was not for me I resigned in 2018 to return to run my own SMSF business once more. I could never stand the attitude that something should be done a particular way because that’s the way it has always been done but, on the other hand, I am disturbed by some of the emerging trends that run counter-productive to delivering real value. My focus is to assist financial advisers and accountants to enhance their SMSF services. Our dedicated team is continually introducing innovative tools and processes designed to set industry standards. Our portal and associated SMSF Toolbox functionality is unique to the sector. What I find exciting is that each innovation presents the opportunity to innovate even more.

I enjoy helping advisers create a material difference to their client outcomes and to the value of their firms. I don’t take myself seriously but I do take my responsibilities very seriously indeed. Why not contact me for a chat? I’d be delighted to explain how we can be of value to you.

General Manager

I manage our operations and team, ensuring our processes and procedures are efficient and producing consistently quality results for our clients whilst ensuring our team members’ skills are recognised, fostered, and utilised for the greatest benefit. 

In my previous corporate roles, I became disillusioned with the consistent wall of apathy, lack of innovation and resistance to change that drastically hindered the efficiency of the work process and morale of the team. This prompted my move to SMSF Alliance, over ten years ago now. We do not settle for the status quo and are continually developing our processes and services to provide our clients with the best possible outcomes and, of course, on time lodgement!

 It has been equally satisfying to watch our clients’ businesses grow and know that we have played a part in that. The constantly moving SMSF regulatory goal posts are, and always will be, a challenge but we have the experience and agility to deal with whatever may come. 

In addition to over 15 years practical experience in SMSFs, I hold a Bachelor degree and a Diploma in Financial Services. I completed the University of Adelaide SMSF Intensive Course with Distinction and hold the SMSF Association’s Specialist SMSF Adviser (SSA) designation. I am also a Registered Tax Agent.

When not at work I can be found in the garden pretending to be a horticulturalist, then inevitably at Bunnings replacing the plants that have died.  I enjoy reading and learning, often going down rabbit holes when something piques my interest.  I have two Boston Terriers that have more personality than is reasonable and who have led me unwittingly into the area of canine nutrition and enrichment for which I have become a keen advocate over the years. 

Head of Technical

I hold a Bachelor of Laws and the Specialist SMSF Adviser designation from the SMSF Association. With 21 years practical experience in the sector, I am proud to assist our clients solve complicated and unusual situations particularly involving deeds, pensions and deceased estates.

UK pensions are a particular interest of mine having spent considerable time working with HMRC for the last 6 years as a QROPS Scheme Administrator. I was proud to be appointed the second such administrator in Australia and have developed a streamlined approach to ROPS reporting and communication between Australia & the UK.

When not working, or studying for my Master of Law, I enjoy time with my two teenagers and husband, our rather fat King Charles Cavalier, Charlie, and our new kitten, Bennett. I love baking and will happily chat cookies anytime.

Head of Growth

I’m the most recent member to join the “alliance” and look after all things Growth. From partnerships and pricing through to marketing and brand, I’m here to make sure the SMSF world knows what a difference SMSF Alliance can make to advice businesses and to their clients’ lives.

When I started my career in the financial services industry over 20 years ago, wrap platforms were a burgeoning idea taking hold of the superannuation market. I was fascinated by the innovation, particularly the efficiency for advisers and freedom for their clients. Since then, I have been hooked on helping planners, accountants, businesses and their clients make the most of their time and money whether that be through technology solutions, commercial strategy, technical education, or business development.

After reaching goals in senior roles at Asgard, AMP, TAL and overseas with Standard Life UK- I moved into SMSFs exclusively and, for the past 10 years, I have passionately promoted the freedom and autonomy of SMSFs to the wider Australian market. It’s an exciting time to be a part of this sector as it reinvigorates itself. I have built deep and valued connections in the SMSF industry and relationships with practices, professionals and clients over many years, and am thrilled to have found my home with David and the team at SMSF Alliance. Everyone knows I love keeping up to date- whether through social media, zoom calls or my phone (that is never off!) and I will always say yes to a coffee (or a wine!) so please reach out wherever and whenever and I will make sure we connect.