A lively panel reflects on 2025's tech-driven accounting trends, AI, automation, clean data, and what’s next for 2026. Ethics, awards, remote work, and receipts that must die!

Summary

In this panel discussion recorded at the Cloudoffis end-of-year event in Sydney, Heather Smith is joined by John Munden (Cloudoffis), Tyler Caskey (The Bean Counters), and Natalia Clark (Easy Super) to reflect on 2025 and forecast on the future in 2026 and beyond in the accounting and auditing industry.

In this episode, we talk about . . .

• Key 2025 trends: AI integration, automation pain points, rapid tech change.
• The obsession with building AI agents into workflows.
• Insights on award-winning success and staying unique.
• The shift to remote-first work and global team building.
• Strategic investments in talent vs. tech at Cloudoffis.
• The call to kill receipts, wet signatures, and corporate cheques.
• Bold forecasts for AI replacing admin roles and fast decision-making gaps.
• Final takeaway: ethics, professionalism, and agility are your superpowers.

Contact details:

 

Sponsor Offers:  Here

Cloudoffis : https://cloudoffis.com.au/ 

Natalia Clark : https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliaclack-easysuper/ 

Tyler Caskey : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylercaskey/ 

John Munden : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmunden/  

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Jarrod Adam is Head of Production & Distribution at The Access Group

Explore how Unleashed helps small businesses thrive through AI-driven inventory management, smarter tools, and actionable data that streamline operations and empower strategic growth.

Summary

Today I’m speaking with Jarrod Adam, Head of Production & Distribution at The Access Group. In this episode, we talk about . . . how Unleashed empowers small businesses with actionable data, AI-powered tools, and integrated inventory solutions.

• Introduction to Jarrod Adam and his background in product management
• The story behind Unleashed and its acquisition by The Access Group
• Overview of the inventory and warehouse management landscape for SMBs
• Unleashed’s value proposition for small businesses and advisors
• When and why to move from basic inventory in GL systems to dedicated inventory tools
• Implementation approach and onboarding process at Unleashed
• Unleashed’s ecosystem: integrations with Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify, Amazon & more
• Evolving supply chain issues post-COVID and solutions like Advanced Inventory Manager (AIM)
• AI in Unleashed: Evo copilot, AI feed, and intelligent agents
• Partner Portal for accountants and bookkeepers – real-time client access
• Use of operational data for advisory services
• The Unleashed Manufacturing Health Index – valuable for advisory insights
• Discussion around the manufacturing “haves and have-nots”
• Closing thoughts on simplicity, design, and real value from software

🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned:

Unleashed, Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, Access Evo, Advanced Inventory Manager

⏱️ YouTube Timestamped Chapters

00:00 – Welcome & Guest Intro: Meet Jarrod Adam from Unleashed.
01:58 – From Tigerland to Tech: A playful rugby-themed intro.
04:20 – Jarrod’s Journey to Product Management: How he fell into software.
06:20 – Auckland’s Thriving SaaS Scene: NZ’s impact on global tech.
08:10 – Inventory, CRM & WMS Landscape: What SMBs need today.
10:50 – What Unleashed Does: Efficient workflows + strategic insights.
13:00 – Signs a Business Needs Unleashed: From post-it notes to stock stress.
15:20 – Accountant & Bookkeeper Pain Points: Data, margins & advisory blocks.
17:30 – Implementation Timeline: Fast, guided onboarding sessions.
19:05 – Unleashed Integrations: Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify, Amazon & more.
21:10 – E-commerce Growth Post-COVID: Why integrations are essential.
23:15 – AI & Forecasting with AIM: Managing supply chain uncertainty.
26:00 – Using Data for Better Advice: The power of operational insights.
28:00 – Manufacturing Health Index: A free resource for advisory.
30:00 – Characteristics of Thriving Manufacturers: Mitigating supplier risks.
32:15 – Partner Portal for Accountants: Real-time multi-client access.
34:00 – AI Copilot & Agents: How Evo enhances the user experience.
35:45 – Final Thoughts & Outro: Software should solve problems, not add them.

Contact details:

Sponsor Offers:  Here

Unleashed Software: https://www.unleashedsoftware.com/ 

Jarrod Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarrod-adam/ 

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Insights from a global panel of women leaders in accounting, exploring influence, ethics, personal branding, and leadership challenges in a male-dominated profession.

Summary

In this special episode of the Accounting Apps Podcast, I moderated a global panel discussion at the Accounting & Business Show Asia 2025 in Singapore. I was joined by Kyelie Baxter (IQ Accountants), Uthaya Ponnusamy (RSM Singapore), and Magdalene Ang (R Chan & Associates, ACCA Singapore Chair) for a panel session I moderated called Influence, Integrity and Impact: Navigating the Reality of Women Leading in Accounting

 

Together we explored:

 

✅ Career journeys and leadership pivots

✅ Building confidence and personal brand (hello USP!)

✅ Ethics vs. earnings — where we draw the line

✅ Mentoring, connection and navigating invisible barriers

✅ Creating influence with integrity and making an impact

 

Listen if you're looking for insight, inspiration, or real-world stories from women reshaping leadership in accounting.

 

Contact details:

Sponsor Offers:  Here

Kyelie Baxter, Managing Director at IQ Accountants 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyelie-baxter-fcpa-43224334/ 

Uthaya Ponnusamy, Partner & Industry Lead - Not For Profit sector at RSM Singapore

https://www.linkedin.com/in/uthaya-ponnusamy-5bab1763/ 

Magdalene Ang, Director, R Chan & Associates PAC and Chair of ACCA Singapore Member Network Panel.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/magdalene-ang-fcca-fca-singapore-03b2084b/ 

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU 

Live from the Accounting & Business Show Asia 2025 in Singapore, Heather chats with innovators about AI, e-invoicing, TikTok trends, cross-border payments and the evolving role of accountants in Asia

Summary

Heather Smith reports from the Accounting & Business Show Asia 2025 in Singapore, sharing floor interviews and key highlights. With strong Australian representation, she reflects on rapid regional digital transformation, cultural insights, and inspiring thought leadership.

Main Topics:

• Singapore's digital drive: e-invoicing mandates and cheque phase-out
• Government-backed AI innovation via AI Singapore
• Roundtable on burnout, boundaries, and micro business sustainability
• TikTok insights and media habits reshaping communication
• Panel on women on boards and leadership pathways

Interviews Include:

• Alvin Chia (OFX) – Cross-border payments with human-first support
• Marvin Galang (Jaz AI) – AI-native accounting software for Southeast Asia
• Bryan Sng (Simple AI) – AI agents automating accounting ops
• Kelvin Koh (Identi.ly) – Face-key file security tech for sensitive documents
• Andrew Paton-Smith (Jazoodle) – 60-second forecasts & valuation KPIs

Key Takeaways:

• The future of advisory is now
• AI is more than a buzzword in Singapore – it's a government initiative
• Accountants must embrace tech and set strong boundaries
• Social platforms like TikTok can't be ignored
• Representation, integrity, and courage are crucial for boardroom progress

LinkedIn Posts from Singapore
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/heathersmithau_abshowasia-accountingandaccountants-activity-7386538062283075584-1Vh2/

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/heathersmithau_acca-accountingandaccountants-abshowasia-activity-7386619905544056832-6Gdu/

 

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/heathersmithau_accountingandaccountants-abshowasia-activity-7386917433271439360-VY4Y/

 

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/heathersmithau_accountingandaccountants-abshowasia-activity-7386982271796490241-WgIh/ 

 

Contact details:

Sponsor Offers:  Here

Xero http://xero.com/

Koren Wines https://www.linkedin.com/in/koren-wines/ 

Sarah Foo https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-foo-fca/

Alvin Chia https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvin-chia-a15a6b65/ 

OFX https://www.ofx.com/ 

Marvin Galang https://www.linkedin.com/in/galangmr/ 

JAZ https://www.jaz.ai/  

Bryan Sng https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryansng/ 

SimpleAi https://simpleaiworks.com/ 

Kelvin Koh https://www.linkedin.com/in/nivlekoh/ 

Identi.ly https://identi.ly/ 

Andrew Paton-Smith https://www.linkedin.com/in/apatonsmith/ 

Jazoodle https://jazoodle.com/ 

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Kerry Butler, CFO of Woolnorth Renewables, Tasmania shares her bold NetSuite rollout, revealing strategic insights on tech, budgeting, AI, and scaling clean energy operations.

Summary

Today I’m speaking with Kerry Butler, CFO of Woolnorth Renewables, Tasmania

In this episode, we talk about . . .

• Insights from attending SuiteWorld 2025 in Las Vegas
• Strategic NetSuite rollout, starting with Planning & Budgeting (NSPB)
• Overcoming implementation challenges with a lean finance team
• Use of implementation partners: Pivot Two & Netgain
• Multilingual board reporting (Chinese & English) and real-time forecasting
• Integrations with SharePoint, virtual cards, and maintenance systems
• Leveraging AI and Ask Oracle for smarter decision-making
• Community involvement and commitment to renewable energy
• Advice for scaling businesses and choosing the right tech stack

🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned:

NetSuite, NetSuite Planning and Budgeting (NSPB), Netgain, Pivot Two, SharePoint, Smart View, Camtasia

📺 Timelines 

00:00 – Welcome & Guest Intro: Kerry Butler, CFO of Woolnorth Renewables
01:45 – Why Kerry Chose NetSuite: Flexibility and ecosystem advantages
04:12 – Board-Ready Reporting in Two Languages: How NSPB enabled it
06:57 – Implementing NSPB First: Breaking ERP rollout conventions
09:43 – Smart Budgeting Tools: Using Smart View for real-time inputs
12:21 – Leveraging Implementation Partners: Pivot Two & Netgain's role
15:02 – Complex Accounting Made Simple: Wind farms, loans & derivatives
17:35 – AI & Strategic Finance: What’s coming next in NetSuite
20:14 – Clean Data = Better AI: System integration & SharePoint sync
22:41 – Ask Oracle: AI-powered reporting for CFOs and CEOs
25:33 – SweetWorld Learnings: Building a global CFO network
28:08 – Advice for Scaling Businesses: Plan for future pain points now
30:17 – CFO Life at SweetWorld: Pitbull concert & Aussie networking
33:42 – Final Reflections: Strategic finance, partnerships & impact

Contact details:

Sponsor Offers:  Here

L: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-butler-1333kes/ 

NetSuite: https://www.netsuite.com.au 

SuiteWorld: https://www.netsuitesuiteworld.com

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Scott Wiltshire, VP & GM of Oracle NetSuite ANZ, unpacks key SuiteWorld 2025 announcements, highlighting AI-driven tools, productivity boosts, and why NetSuite is a game-changer for growing businesses.

Summary

Today I’m speaking with Scott Wiltshire, VP & GM of Oracle NetSuite ANZ.

In this episode, we talk about . . .

• Event recap: SuiteWorld 2025 highlights relevant to ANZ
• Key tools: AI Connect Services, Prompt Studio, Autonomous Close, Subscription Metrics
• NetSuite Next: Major platform upgrade promising zero-day close
• Emphasis on AI for automation, reporting, and decision support
• Discussion on value of attending SuiteWorld for ANZ professionals
• Growing importance of NetSuite's partner ecosystem
• Comparison between “automated” vs “autonomous” workflows
• Advice on bridging the knowledge gap with dedicated support
• NetSuite as a scalable “single source of truth” for growth-focused businesses

🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned

NetSuite, AI Connect Services, ChatGPT, Prompt Studio, Subscription Metrics SuiteApp, Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), NetSuite Analytics Warehouse, Safe Search, Advanced Customer Support

⏱️ Timelines 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Heather sets the stage for the SuiteWorld 2025 recap
01:15 – NetSuite AI Connect Services: Plug in your AI assistant for real-time action
02:50 – Prompt Studio Explained: Build & deploy GenAI prompts in workflows
04:35 – Subscription Metrics SuiteApp: Real-time visibility into recurring revenue
06:10 – Interview with Scott Wiltshire Begins: First impressions from Las Vegas
08:05 – The AI Buzz at SuiteWorld: Surge in demand for AI-powered accounting
10:00 – Why ANZ Pros Should Attend: Learning, networking, and discovering tools
12:00 – NetSuite as a Growth Platform: From MYOB/Xero to scalable ERP
13:45 – NetSuite Next Preview: Major AI-powered platform upgrade incoming
15:30 – Autonomous Close Feature: Moving towards zero-day book closing
17:20 – Natural Language Reporting: Talk to NetSuite using plain English
19:00 – Prompt Studio in Practice: Real examples from product-based businesses
21:00 – Most Underused New Feature: AI model integration & free querying tools
22:40 – NetSuite’s Partner Ecosystem: Extending NetSuite through collaboration

Contact details:

Sponsor Offers:  Here

L: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottpwiltshire/ 

NetSuite: https://www.netsuite.com.au 

SuiteWorld: https://www.netsuitesuiteworld.com

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Dianna Butterworth, CFO of Kieser Australia shares the move from 27 Xero files to NetSuite, improving scalability, budgeting, and team empowerment. 

Summary

Today I’m speaking with Dianna Butterworth, CFO of Kieser Australia s

In this episode, we talk about . . .

Background: Dianna’s path from financial advisor and entrepreneur to CFO
Company Overview: Kieser Australia is a physiotherapy-led strength training provider with 31 clinics
Initial Challenge: Managing 27 separate Xero files across clinics
Solution Chosen: NetSuite ERP with implementation by Anexa
Key Outcomes:

1. Replaced 80+ spreadsheets with NetSuite Planning and Budgeting
2. Improved team efficiency, moving from 1:5 to 1:12 clinic-to-bookkeeper ratio
3. Faster monthly reporting and greater data visibility
4. Budget cycle shortened from six months to one to two months

Integrated Tools: Celigo, Zone & Co, ExpenseMe
Conference Takeaways: Upcoming AI features in NetSuite and the value of peer networking
Advice to CFOs:

• Invest early in scalable systems
• Prioritise agility as much as accuracy
• Build confidence in the numbers to support growth

🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned:

NetSuite, Xero, NetSuite Planning and Budgeting, Celigo, Zone & Co, ExpenseMe, ApprovalMax, Rippling, Blue Collar Cloud Solutions

⏱️ Timelines

00:00 – Welcome and Introduction: Meet Dianna Butterworth, CFO of Keiser Australia
01:40 – Career Journey: From cufflinks to CFO
03:55 – About Kieser: What the business does and how it helps Australians
06:40 – Before NetSuite: The chaos of 27 Xero files
09:10 – Choosing NetSuite: Finding the right ERP for growth
11:30 – Empowering the Team: Moving from manual tasks to analysis
13:45 – Budgeting Breakthrough: Ditching spreadsheets for better planning
16:00 – Role of Anexa: Importance of a strong implementation partner
18:35 – Tech Stack Deep Dive: Celigo, Zone & Co, ExpenseMe
21:00 – Budgeting Speed: From six months to one month
23:30 – Advice for CFOs: Invest early and trust your data
25:20 – Insights from SuiteWorld: AI, networking and lifelong learning
28:10 – Wrapping Up: Thinking big and enjoying the journey

Contact details:

L: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianna-butterworth-9088947a/  

NetSuite: https://www.netsuite.com.au 

SuiteWorld: https://www.netsuitesuiteworld.com

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Craig Sullivan, Group VP of Product Management, NetSuite  joins Heather Smith at SuiteWorld25 to reveal AI, automation, and global ERP innovations transforming how accountants and businesses scale smarter.

Summary

Today I’m speaking with Craig Sullivan, Group VP of Product Management, NetSuite

In this episode, we talk about . . .

• Insights into NetSuite Next: AI-native ERP, natural language queries & agentic workflows
• Grounded AI: Role-based, explainable responses tailored to accounting & finance users
• Internationalisation & multilingual support coming to NetSuite AI
• Global compliance & e-invoicing updates—AI-enabled validation for governments
• AI Connector: Bridging NetSuite with tools like ChatGPT for insights and storefront integration
• Advice for accountants stepping into ERP consulting
• Importance of planning in successful NetSuite implementation
• "Suite Success" methodology explained
• Closing with Pitbull (Mr. Worldwide) and the global theme of SuiteWorld25
  
  

🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned

NetSuite, Oracle, ApprovalMax, Soldo, Synder, ChatGPT, Claude, Shopify

 

⏱️ Timelines

00:00 – Welcome to SuiteWorld25: Craig Sullivan joins live from Las Vegas
02:15 – Why Accountants Should Care: NetSuite's role in SME digital transformation
04:40 – From Frustration to Innovation: Craig’s journey from accountant to product leader
07:55 – Big Reveal: What NetSuite NEXT brings to ERP and accounting
10:30 – Grounded AI & Natural Language: Role-aware, explainable ERP queries
13:25 – Jet Engine, Not Co-Pilot: NetSuite’s bold AI claims
15:40 – Going Global: Supporting business in 160+ countries with OneWorld
18:20 – AI in Multiple Languages: Multilingual support explained
20:05 – E-Invoicing Powered by AI: Compliance turned efficiency booster
22:40 – Ask Oracle & Contextual Insights: Smarter decision-making with AI
24:55 – AI Connectors in Action: Real-world ChatGPT and Claude integrations
27:10 – What Accountants Should Know: Scaling smart from Day One
29:00 – Implementation Pitfalls: Planning as the missing puzzle piece
30:35 – The Power of Sweet Success: Best practice baked into ERP deployment
32:10 – Craig’s Final Insights: AI’s future role in accounting
33:55 – Bonus Fun: Pitbull, Mr. Worldwide, and SuiteWorld party prep!

 

Contact details:

L: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigssullivan/  

NetSuite: https://www.netsuite.com.au 

SuiteWorld: https://www.netsuitesuiteworld.com

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Madeline Reeves shares how Advisory Amplified is reimagining accounting conferences with community focus, practical advisory content, and a women-led, inclusive approach.

Summary

Today I’m speaking with Madeline Reeves, Founder & CEO of Fearless Foundry, creator of Advisory Amplified.

In this episode, we talk about . . . Reinventing accounting conferences through a six-city U.S. tour focused on practical advisory content and community building.

• Challenges with traditional conferences and the need for real-world application.
• Advisory vs. CAS: Clarifying the terminology and implementation.
• Empowering women and underrepresented voices in accounting events.
• Localised content and community connection via hometown hosts.
• Practical tools and strategies for implementing advisory services.
• Workbook-based workshops with real, actionable takeaways.
• Partnering only with vendors who deliver educational (not salesey) content.
• Launching a virtual version of Advisory Amplified on November 18.
• Vision for future global expansion and continued grassroots connection.

🌟 Advisory Amplified Sponsors

• Fathom – Financial analysis and management reporting tool for accountants and business owners.
• Ignition – Client engagement and billing platform that automates proposals, contracts, and payments.
• Karbon – Practice management software for accounting firms, streamlining tasks, emails, and workflows.
• Relay – Online business banking designed for accountants and small businesses, with integrated financial controls.
• OnPay – Payroll and HR software for small businesses, handling wages, tax filings, and benefits.
• Fearless Foundry – Creative consulting firm that helps entrepreneurs and organisations with branding, marketing, and strategy.

🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned:

Avalara, QuickBooks Online Accountant (QBOA), TSheets, Hubdoc,  Abacor, Firm360, Taxfyle

Timestamp 

00:00 – Welcome Madeline Reeves: Advisory Amplified rethinks accounting events.
02:05 – From Avalara to Advisory Leader: Madeline’s tech-to-advisory journey.
06:10 – Why Advisory Amplified Exists: Gaps in traditional conferences.
09:30 – Real Talk: Advisory in the US vs. Global: What's missing in America.
13:25 – Designing Inclusive Conferences: Women-led by design, not default.
17:15 – The Power of Representation: All-female AI panel moment in Chicago.
20:40 – Tools Driving the Advisory Shift: What tech supports real advisory?
23:55 – Advisory Tech Stack Talk: Practical sessions with partner input.
27:10 – From Random Acts of Consulting to Service Lines: Productizing advisory.
30:35 – AI + Advisory Integration: Using AI for better client conversations.
34:00 – Hands-On Learning With Workbooks: Goodbye chicken scratch notes.
37:15 – Building Community with Local Flavour: Hometown hosts & local vendors.
41:05 – Sponsors with Substance: No sales pitches—only educational value.
44:25 – The Value of Diverse Perspectives: Unlocking new ideas through inclusion.
47:00 – Advisory Mindsets & Skills: Let go of perfection, focus on listening.
50:15 – Stop Selling, Start Serving: Grow advisory with current clients.
53:10 – Advisory Amplified Goes Virtual: November 18 launch details.
55:30 – Global Ambitions + The Bus Dream: What's next for the conference.
58:00 – Final Thoughts: Building a future-focused, community-powered industry.

Contact details:

 

Madeline Reeves: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madelinefearless/

Fearless Foundry: https://www.fearlessfoundry.com/

Advisory Amplified: https://www.advisoryamplified.com/ 

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Liam Hindle, GM of Product & Product Marketing at MYOB

MYOB's Liam Hindle shares insights from the Accounting Industry Monitor, the future of AI in accounting, and how practices can evolve through tech, efficiency, and growth mindset strategies.

Summary

Today I’m speaking with Liam Hindle, GM of Product & Product Marketing at MYOB

Liam highlights "intentionality" as a key to the cultural and operational trait that sets progressive accounting firms apart. 

"I think for me, the word that comes to mind is that they're intentional."

He elaborated that these firms:

• Don’t improve by accident or as a byproduct.
• Make conscious decisions to invest in their people and operations.
• Regularly review processes and strategies.
• Prioritise professional development and operational efficiency.
• Make strategic use of technology to free up time for high-value work.

Liam emphasized that intentionality helps firms shift from reactive, deadline-driven work to proactive, strategic engagement, unlocking value for both clients and team members.

In this episode, we also talk about . . .

• Focus on MYOB’s vision for accounting practices;
• Key takeaways from the MYOB Accounting Industry Monitor;
• Strategies for handling talent shortages & fostering a growth mindset; 
• AI literacy and upskilling as tools for retention & recruitment;
• Operational tips for improving efficiency through standardisation and automation;
• Importance of strong onboarding and client engagement; 
• Data security and AI risk management in MYOB’s product development;
• Future of accounting tech: Agentic AI and embedded AI in workflows;
• MYOB’s upcoming compliance-focused tools and strategic advisory enablement

 

🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned:

Apps & Tools Mentioned: MYOB, ChatGPT, Claude, AWS, Teams Copilot, Fireflies

Contact details:

Liam Hindle https://www.linkedin.com/in/liamhindle/

MYOB https://www.myob.com/au 

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Heather Smith shares why she’s running for the ACCA Global Council, highlighting her advocacy work, global experience, and vision for a future-focused, member-driven ACCA.

Summary

📌 Episode Summary (Bullet Points)

• Heather Smith announces her candidacy for the ACCA Global Council.
• She reflects on 30 years as an ACCA member and her international career.
• Advocates for stronger representation from the Southern Hemisphere.
• Discusses her roles in ACCA’s global SME and technology forums.
• Emphasises her long-standing commitment to member support and tech innovation.
• Calls for members to vote, noting the significant impact of each ballot.
• Encourages non-voting listeners to spread the word within their network.

Hi, my name is Heather Smith, and you’re listening to the Accounting Apps Podcast.

I’m jumping in with something a little different today. As you may have seen on my socials, I’m standing as a candidate in the ACCA Global Council elections.

I’ve been a proud member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants for nearly 30 years. It’s opened doors for me to work across Australia, Singapore, England, and Canada, and it’s connected me with inspiring accountants worldwide. ACCA has been the foundation of a rewarding, impactful career, and even enabled me—through a memorandum of understanding—to join Chartered Accountants ANZ.

Now, I’m standing for Council as a way of giving back to the membership that has given me so much.

If you’re an eligible member, I encourage you to listen on. If you’re not, perhaps you know someone who is—please nudge them to vote. It can be hard for candidates from the Southern Hemisphere to gain momentum, so every vote really matters.

Why Council Matters
 Council sets ACCA’s direction:

• How it supports members
  
  
• How it advocates with regulators
  
  
• How it prepares for challenges like AI, sustainability, digital transformation, and the talent pipeline
  
  

These issues affect every member, everywhere.

A Bit About Me

• I’m the first Australian-born ACCA Fellow.
  
  
• In this election, I’m the only candidate from the Southern Hemisphere. Once elected, however, you represent all members globally.
  
  
• I chair the ACCA Global Forum for SMEs.
  
  
• I’m a member of the Global Forum for Technology.
  
  
• I’ve authored 10 business books (and am working on my 11th).
  
  
• I’ve hosted this podcast for 10 years.
  
  
• I’ve represented ACCA at more than 100 international conferences, championing innovation, ethics, technology, and inclusion.
  
  
• In 2024, I was named Accounting Thought Leader of the Year.
  
  

Over the years, I’ve also represented ACCA to the Australian Tax Office, funding my own travel and accommodation to secure recognition for ACCA members. These things aren’t always visible, but they matter.

I’m passionate about giving SMEs and SMPs a strong voice, about using technology to work for us, and about ensuring members are at the heart of every decision.

Why Your Vote Counts
 Last year, fewer than 5% of members voted. That means each vote carries the weight of about 20 votes in a typical election. You can select up to 21 candidates, and I’d be honoured if one of those votes went to me, Heather Smith.

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Together, let’s build a future-focused, globally connected ACCA that supports members everywhere.

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Thank you for listening. I’m Heather Smith, and this is the Accounting Apps Podcast.

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