MEET THE MAESTRO: Fractional Expert Melbourne

Matthew- Commercial Director

At Maestro, we know there’s more to life than work. In fact, it’s the experiences, relationships and pursuits we have outside of work that can often give us an edge in what we do each day. We are kicking off an interview series called “Meet the Maestro” where we interview our Maestros and get an insight to who they really are and what makes them tick - beyond the CV.

Originally from South Africa and now proudly calling Australia home since 2019, Matt brings over 14 years of experience in business partnering and senior finance leadership. As a CIMA CGMA and CPA, he has built a career on helping businesses turn financial insights into meaningful strategic outcomes. Matt is deeply concerned about the changing landscape of the accounting profession in Australia. With university enrolments in accounting down by 35% year on year, and SMEs already struggling to access quality, affordable finance and IT talent, he sees an urgent need for innovation and accessibility in the industry. That’s why he’s passionate about bringing virtual C-Suite services to SMEs -  empowering small and medium businesses with the same high-calibre financial expertise that larger corporations enjoy. 

1. Tell us about a career highlight to date… 

At 26 I was put in charge of a loss making division and managed to turn it profitable in 18 months

2. Talk us through an unusual career choice you’ve made along the way… 

I pivoted out of General management where I was thriving to focus on finance to create a career path to being a CFO.

3. When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A professional Cricket player.

4. What are your passions outside of work and how do you make time for them?

Long walks, Coffee, exercise, quality time with my daughter and gaming commentary. I try and set boundaries for work life balance or I’d simply work to much because I enjoy it.

5. If you could instantly master any skill or hobby, what would it be and why?

AI enabled model building and software development. People with these skills will leave everybody else behind.

6. What’s a personal value or belief that guides the way you live your life? 

Honesty and integrity above all else. I’d rather turn down money from a client than accept an engagement that isn’t the right fit.

7. What’s a challenge you’ve overcome outside of work that shaped you? 

Learning to become a dad, being soft when needed and understanding that it takes little people time to learn new things.

8. What do you think your job will look like in 10 years time?

The advisory piece will look the same but the data transformation and review processes as well as reports will be more efficient and aesthetically pleasing. 

9. If you could travel anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you go and what would you do?

South Africa, I’d go make a Barbeque for my mom.

10. What does success look like to you?

Having a job where you can make enough money for the lifestyle you want and enjoy what you do. Its also important to me to feel like I make a difference and add value to peoples lives.