Zach Whichelo
Wollongong,NSW
Summary
Chartered Accountant with over 8 years of experience across auditing, tax accounting, and management accounting. Proven ability to lead in dynamic environments, delivering strategic financial insights with professionalism, analytical problem-solving, and effective communication. Committed to continuous learning and maintaining high ethical standards. Outside of work, I bring my leadership and teamwork skills to coaching a local football club, recently guiding the team to a premiership after three years of dedication, strategy, and perseverance.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Chartered Accountant
Peoplecare Health Insurance
Wollongong, NSW
05.2023 - Current
- Prepared and reviewed month-end financial reports, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards for presentation to the CFO and CEO.
- Analyzed financial performance, providing actionable insights to senior management and recommending strategies for cost management and profitability improvements.
- Reported quarterly to APRA on claims data, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and timely submission of required information.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams across the company to improve financial processes, enhance reporting efficiency, and support decision-making.
- Led the setup of pricing models for new products (Bronze, Silver, and Gold), ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and market competitiveness.
- Specialised in Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT), managing and submitting FBT returns for the funds, ensuring full compliance with tax regulations.
- Managed financial reporting and budgeting for Peoplecare and small closed health funds (e.g., RBHS), contributing to regulatory filings and maintaining accurate financial records.
Intermediate Accountant
Walker Wayland Financial Services
Sydney, NSW
08.2021 - 05.2023
- Specialised in preparing tax returns, business activity statements and financial statements for large domestic and international companies, ensuring compliance with local and global tax regulations.
- Focused on Div 7A compliance and application, along with other key accounting standards and practices, ensuring accurate and timely reporting.
- Managed a portfolio of large companies and their associated entities, including 10+ smaller entities and trusts across multiple jurisdictions, delivering tailored tax strategies.
- Collaborated closely with offshore accountants in Manila, delegating tasks, reviewing work, and ensuring the quality and accuracy of deliverables.
- Demonstrated strong time management skills by balancing a demanding workload with studying for Chartered Accounting qualifications, while commuting between Wollongong and Sydney.
- Provided valuable advice on international tax planning and cross-border transactions, helping clients navigate complex tax issues.
Undergraduate Accountant & SMSF Auditor
Dominion Financial Group
Wollongong
05.2016 - 08.2021
- Gained hands-on experience in accounting and SMSF auditing, preparing financial statements, tax returns, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
- Developed and maintained client relationships, offering personalized advice on tax planning, investments, and financial strategies.
- Managed multiple client accounts simultaneously, utilizing accounting software (Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks) to ensure accurate records and timely reporting.
- Continuously improved professional knowledge through seminars and workshops, staying current with industry trends, accounting standards, and regulations.
Pizza Delivery
Friends Pizza Restaurant
Figtree
01.2016 - 01.2017
- Delivered pizzas promptly and professionally, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction and efficient route planning.
- Managed cash transactions and processed payments accurately, adhering to company procedures.
- Provided excellent customer service, addressing inquiries and maintaining a clean and safe delivery environment.
Barista
Two Doors Up Café Fairy Meadow
01.2013 - 01.2016
- Prepared and served high-quality coffee and beverages in a fast-paced café environment, consistently meeting customer expectations.
- Developed strong time management and multitasking abilities, thriving under pressure during peak hours.
- Worked closely with a dynamic team to ensure smooth operations, contributing to a collaborative and efficient work environment.
- Delivered exceptional customer service, building rapport with regulars and handling customer inquiries and complaints with professionalism.
Education
Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
10-2024
Bachelor of Commerce - Accounting
University of Wollongong
01.2021
Higher School Certificate -
Edmund Rice College
01.2015
Skills
- Financial Analysis and Reporting: Expertise in preparing and interpreting financial statements in accordance with IFRS and GAAP
- Audit and Assurance: Skilled in conducting external and internal audits, identifying risks, and providing actionable recommendations
- Budgeting and Forecasting: Proficient in creating financial models to support strategic decision-making and long-term planning
- Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Adept at identifying financial discrepancies and implementing effective solutions
- Time Management and Multitasking: Proven ability to manage multiple clients and deadlines in high-pressure environments
- Stakeholder Engagement: Experienced in building and maintaining relationships with clients, colleagues, and regulatory bodies
- Ethical Decision-Making: Strong understanding of professional ethics and compliance requirements in the accounting field
- Team Collaboration and Mentoring: Effective in working with cross-functional teams and mentoring junior staff
- Continuous Learning: Commitment to staying updated on changes in tax laws, accounting standards, and industry trends
- Data Analytics and Visualization: Familiar with using tools like Excel, Power BI, and Tableau for financial data analysis and reporting
Certification
- Higher School Certificate
- Bachelor Degree Major in Accounting, Minor in Business Law
- Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
- Certificate III in Hospitality
- Responsible Service of Alcohol
- Responsible Conduct of Gambling
- Xero Certification in Accounting Software
- TechOne University Certification
- NTAA FBT Training
Timeline
Chartered Accountant
Peoplecare Health Insurance
05.2023 - Current
Intermediate Accountant
Walker Wayland Financial Services
08.2021 - 05.2023
Undergraduate Accountant & SMSF Auditor
Dominion Financial Group
05.2016 - 08.2021
Pizza Delivery
Friends Pizza Restaurant
01.2016 - 01.2017
Barista
Two Doors Up Café Fairy Meadow
01.2013 - 01.2016
Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
Bachelor of Commerce - Accounting
University of Wollongong
Higher School Certificate -
Edmund Rice College