Luke McGlade

At Austest, I provided full-spectrum accounts support across four laboratories, servicing around 80 employees. My role covered high-volume accounts payable/receivable, daily bank reconciliations, payroll processing, and general administrative duties. Due to the seasonal nature of the business, I regularly handled large volumes of employee onboarding and terminations, ensuring accuracy and compliance. I also processed approximately 100 invoices per day and monitored multiple shared inboxes, requiring strong attention to detail, time management, and the ability to juggle competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

In a dynamic, multi-site role spanning four major dealerships (Honda, Mazda, Renault, Subaru), I led end-to-end payroll processing for 100 staff, acted as 2IC to the Financial Controller, and managed all IT systems group-wide. I processed multiple pay runs weekly, handled complex commissions, and ensured compliance with PAYG, super, and payroll tax. Simultaneously, I supported banking operations, staff management, and system troubleshooting across departments—resolving issues in Eranet/Erapower, coordinating employee system access, and maintaining smooth day-to-day operations. This role demanded precision, adaptability, and the ability to juggle high-volume workloads across finance, tech, and administration with confidence.

In this fully remote position, I managed end-to-end bookkeeping for seven diverse clients, each with their own bespoke processes, preferences, and reporting requirements. I was responsible for reconciling bank feeds, managing accounts payable/receivable, performing cash and EFTPOS reconciliations, and assisting with payroll data entry during system transitions. Adapting to a paperless environment, I became proficient in tools such as MYOB, Xero, Dext, Hubdoc, TeamViewer, Excel, and PDF editing software. A key achievement during my time was uncovering fraudulent activity, after which I worked closely with management to implement strengthened internal controls. This role demanded exceptional time management, attention to detail, and the ability to flexibly cater to each client’s individual business needs.

As a Cabin Crew member with Network Aviation, a Qantas Group subsidiary, I was responsible for delivering exceptional inflight service while maintaining strict compliance with aviation safety regulations and company policy. The role demanded ongoing study and successful annual requalification in emergency procedures, first aid, fire response, and both land and water evacuations—ensuring operational readiness for a wide range of scenarios. I acted as a mentor to new crew, led safety briefings, managed medical incidents, and supported pilots in operational duties. With each flight, I delivered high-quality customer service, assisted passengers with special needs, and promoted Qantas products—all while upholding the safety, professionalism, and reputation of the airline.

In this fast-paced, customer-facing role, I was responsible for simultaneously managing TAB operations, two bar areas, and preparing drinks for the bistro. I delivered friendly and efficient service while resolving disputes, monitoring patron behaviour, and ensuring compliance with responsible service of alcohol. My day-to-day involved processing bets, managing tills and floats, setting up bar and TAB terminals, and maintaining a clean, organised environment. With strong teamwork and communication skills, I built positive rapport with customers and staff alike, always ready to assist wherever needed.

Over 12 years at Lane Ford, I progressed through a variety of finance and administrative roles across multiple dealerships within the group. My core responsibilities included end-to-end payroll for five dealerships, producing end-of-month profit and loss reports, reconciling ledgers, and overseeing BAS, PAYG, and superannuation compliance. I trained staff across banking, accounts, licensing, and payroll, while also assisting with recruitment and internal auditing to meet standards set by regulatory bodies such as the ATO, MTA, and Ford Motor Co. I regularly travelled between dealerships, stepping into critical functions like accounts payable/receivable, vehicle deal processing, stock control, and systems setup during acquisitions. Known for my attention to detail and strong work ethic, I consistently ensured accurate reporting, streamlined processes, and audit readiness across departments.