Once the merger completes at the end of April, the combined Grant Thornton Australia will be the clear number one accounting and advisory firm serving Australia’s dynamic middle market.
Grant Thornton Australia CEO, Robert Quant, says, “Our rationale for this merger has always been to deliver what clients are nowadays demanding. Most dynamic enterprises are actively pursuing opportunities and seeking assistance from like-minded advisers. Relationships are still key, but these dynamic organisations are expecting geographic coverage, scale and expertise to match their own business footprint and growth aspirations.“Our passion has always been to serve dynamic organisations. This is a passion shared by BDO’s Melbourne and Sydney partners and that is why we are delighted to have been able to reach agreement on their joining us.”
Chief executive of BDO’s combined Sydney/Melbourne practice, Pat Donato, says his team shares Grant Thornton’s vision. “We have strong, long-standing relationships with very loyal clients and we are excited to bring to our clients and staff, the benefits of a truly integrated national firm that shares our passion for delivering exceptional service.
“We are looking forward to being part of an international network which is underpinned by shared values and vision. Grant Thornton International invests heavily in global research and thought leadership and we are keen to bring the benefits of this to our clients”, Donato said.
Quant added, “Our combined capability will allow us to respond to the needs of our clients and provide the complex advisory services they need. We will be a magnet for high quality professionals with a passion for helping their clients grow.”
Quant says Grant Thornton Australia “has always respected BDO’s practice in Melbourne and Sydney for its strong and collaborative ‘go to market’ approach. Our two firms share a clear client service ethic, with great people delivering high quality client service. Like us they understand that genuine industry expertise is an essential element for delivering value to our clients.”
The agreement is subject to finalisation of legal documentation and formal stakeholder approval.
Emma Cooney
Communications Manager
T +61 2 8297 2426
E emma.cooney@au.gt.com