There’s never a dull moment in the world of accounting and finance, whether it’s market shocks or changing governments – and that volatility will always be exciting to this director. Amanda Rogers has earned an impressive number of qualifications over the years, training first as an accountant and CPA before completing a high-scoring MBA, which won her a prestigious Zonta award.

However, it’s the warm team dynamic and rewarding client work that Amanda values most at WLM. “We all help each other out, and have a culturally diverse workforce and an open-door management policy. It’s a place where people can thrive,” she says. Her work at WLM has included guiding numerous startups to growth, growth structures for medical professionals and medical practices, international branch accounting, business valuations and much more.

When not at work, Amanda supports the University of Technology Sydney’s MBA Women’s Network and is on the board of directors for Coast Community Connections, a registered charity delivering high quality services to young people, families, people with a disability and older people on the NSW Central Coast. She is active with her teenage children and their far-ranging mountain-biking or cheerleading ventures. She’s also a keen property investor, always on the lookout for her next purchase.

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Sean’s training as a Certified Financial Planner may have begun before he was out of school shorts. From a young age, he was observing how finances affected people’s lives and lifestyles, and after completing years and years of studies, including a Bachelor of Economics and Finance, found he could make a real difference for people.

Sean hasn’t stopped helping people since, working in various financial advisory roles and becoming a director at WLM Financial in 2008. He has long upheld the signature WLM Financial approach, of combining analytical diligence with a genuine effort to understand client problems. “I hate seeing people having to make rushed financial decisions – the results usually aren’t great. So I spend a lot of time with people, getting them to think ahead, so that we can plan, prepare and pounce when the time’s right,” he explains.

He’s also known for his steady stream of dad-jokes and intense fitness regime, which includes group-training, golf and kid-wrangling.

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Stephen ran a successful financial planning practice for almost 15 years before joining WLM Financial, drawn by its warm team culture, operational efficiencies and innovative investment solutions. “I love my job because I get to meet new people every day. There is no greater satisfaction than working with a client and seeing their dreams come true. No two days are the same,” he says.

WLM’s goals-based approach resonates with Stephen’s own beliefs around client care, which involve customised strategies and clear communication, ultimately coaching clients to financial freedom. He is keenly aware of how often most people’s situations change, driving the need to review each client’s financial position regularly to ensure they’re getting the most out of their resources.

Like his fellow directors, Stephen is a great driver of innovation at WLM and the efficiencies that new technology bring about – for planners and clients alike.

A self-confessed AFL tragic (West Coast Eagles, for the record), Stephen also loves a good political thriller and is devoted to his family.

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Growing up as one of six competitive boys in country Victoria and Canberra, Dan McGrath always knew that financial soundness and personal freedom went hand-in-hand. He was quick to get on the career ladder after studying commerce and accounting, with stints in London and Edinburgh working for KPMG, then at Walter Turnbull (now part of PwC) in Canberra, Melbourne and Sydney for 10 years before setting up his own practice.

In 2012, the team-minded Dan – a former first-grade rugby and AFL player – joined WLM Financial, where he is a director and instrumental lead in the accounting practice. Dan echoes the WLM philosophy of embracing new financial technology, and encouraging a long-term holistic mindset in clients. “For business owners, an accountant is often their only support in financial decision-making. That’s why we believe that accounting and finances should be planned as a whole,” Dan explains.

Outside of work, Dan is a keen AFL and rugby fan, weekend golfer and enjoys listening to podcasts when he can get a quiet moment from his two children. He’s known for his easygoing manner and quick, dry humour.

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Having a career in business services spanning over 10 years and working with a wide variety of clients from various industries and with various investments, Charley notes” I joined WLM for its values that focus on great client service and its ability to provide a holistic approach to accounting and financial planning advice.” Since then, Charley has played an important hand in helping the firm to grow and expand the level of services offered.

As a dynamic leader at WLM and with a mind wired for seeing the positives in every situation, Charley encourages his team to collaborate, think critically and consider ideas that will create the best result for their clients. Charley utilises a partnership approach which ensures his clients feel that he is invested in their business and wants them to succeed. “I believe that every time I deal with a client, I am going on a journey with them which gives me a sense of fulfilment.”

Always being a numbers person and motivated by solving challenging problems, James set his sights on building a career in accounting from an early age. Following the completion of his Bachelor of commerce, majoring in accounting and finance, James was drawn to apply for a role at WLM for its unique approach of housing Accounting and Financial Planning, and the professional yet enjoyable work environment.

James quickly solidified his position at WLM, and grew to become an integral member of the team – known for his strong technical ability, streamlining processes, and helping to grow junior talent. James prides himself on being the go-to-man for his clients, and enjoys connecting with them on a personal level to provide a well-rounded service. He leads his high-performing team by providing an open, respectful and fun environment, where his witty banter doesn’t go astray.