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Media release | Bessie Zhang appointed to SW Accountants & Advisors Executive Board

Media release | Bessie Zhang appointed to SW Accountants & Advisors Executive Board

15/12/2022

SW is delighted to announce the appointment of Bessie Zhang, Partner, to the SW Executive Board, effective 1 January 2023. 

Says Chair of SW, Mr Stephen O’Flynn, “Bessie has played a key role in building our visibility and capability in our Brisbane and Perth markets, and recently relocated her family to Sydney to support our valuable clients in this market and further assist the strategic growth of our Sydney office. Bessie plays a key role in leading our China corporate market approach on both the domestic and international fronts, working closely with many international SW partners. She plays a key role in supporting our Energy & Resources Industry Group and is also involved in supporting our community approach, having participated in the CEO Sleepout and many other SW CSR activities.” 

Bessie fills the vacancy created by Helen Wicker, Tax Director, who steps down from the Executive Board after 5 years’ service.   

“Helen has made a valuable contribution to our firm during this period, and I would like to thank her for her leadership and strategic input, particularly during the pandemic, our change of premises and renovations, and two successful mergers. Helen’s contribution has been second to none during a period of considerable national growth for the firm,” said Mr O’Flynn.     

Over the next four years, SW has a strategic focus on: Growth, People and Digital, with leadership, governance and culture being the key building blocks that will underpin success. With a ranking of 22 in the 2022 Australian Financial Review Top 100 Accounting Firms, SW continues to be a source of interest for clients and practitioners looking for a firm they can work with that has a long history with good financial stability, and an eye to the future.   

Ms Bessie Zhang stated: “I am humbled by the trust my fellow partners have placed in me and grateful for the opportunities and challenges that this position will provide. I look forward to working with my colleagues to support our strategic agenda and further contribute to a firm I am proud to be part of.”  

Ms Helen Wicker reflects on her time on the SW Board: “It’s been a privilege to serve on the SW board for the past five years, working closely with my fellow directors as we’ve navigated the pandemic, opened our Perth office, and launched the current strategic plan. I wish Bessie and the continuing board members all the best with their ongoing roles; I know the firm is in good hands and is well positioned for continued growth and success.” 

Steven Allan continues his term on the board, together with Hayley Underwood, Duane Rogers as CEO and independent director, Sangeeta Venkatesan. 

SW congratulates Bessie on her appointment and thanks Helen for her significant contribution during her tenure. 

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