Top 10 Reasons to Hire a Business Advisor 

Hiring a business advisor can be one of the most strategic and transformative decisions for any company, from startups to large corporations. By offering an objective view, specialised knowledge, and actionable solutions, business advisors can help you increase profitability and ensure sustainable long-term growth.

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, staying ahead of the competition requires more than just hard work and good intentions; it demands strategic planning, smart resource management, and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions. A business advisor acts as both a mentor and a strategist, helping you navigate these complexities with a clear, focused approach.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 reasons why hiring a business advisor is one of the best investments you can make for your business. Whether you’re looking to scale, improve operational efficiency, or enhance financial performance, a business advisor can be the trusted partner you need to achieve your goals.

1. Objective Perspective on Your Business

Business owners can be too close to their operations, or too busy, to see the full picture. An external advisor provides an unbiased perspective, to identify the blind spots that you might have missed. Our job is to analyse your business from all angles, keep up with shifts in the market, and devise creative solutions — all so you can spend more time doing what you love.

2. Specialised Expertise

Seek advisors who specialise in your industry or business challenges, as tailored expertise will lead to more actionable insights. At The Co., we specialise in providing financial and advisory services for a wide range of sectors including healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, construction, the legal industry and more.

3. Financial Health Assessment

Most business advisors are highly skilled in key areas of financial management. The Co. can help grow your business across the board, whether it’s a consulting role to help increase profit margins, completely outsourcing your CFO, or providing detailed-oriented accounting, bookkeeping, and tax services.

4. Strategic Planning and Goal Setting

Do you want to put long-term goals into place? A business advisor will ensure you’re working with an achievable, sustainable, and growth-oriented strategy to make your dreams a reality — whether that’s scaling operations or expanding into new markets.

We’ve worked with new businesses looking to launch, companies expanding internationally, business owners needing to plan for their retirement, and more.

5. Navigating Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Navigating your industry’s rules and requirements can be overwhelming (and time-consuming). An advisor, especially one experienced in your region’s regulations, can ensure compliance and avoid costly penalties. It’s our job to stay informed on changes in laws and regulations that may affect your business.

6. Leadership and Team Development

Are you trying to build a new team? Or restructuring your existing one? Consulting on organisational structure, staff development, and employee retention strategies are all part of our service. We’ll provide guidance on everything from hiring to onboarding and leadership training, so you can develop the A-team you need to maximise performance and productivity.

7. Crisis Management and Risk Mitigation

Every business faces challenges, from economic downturns to internal disruptions. A business advisor helps prepare your company for potential risks and provide guidance on managing crises effectively. We don’t just plan for what we can predict; making sure you’re equipped to handle unforeseen events is an important consideration. This was really put to the test during the COVID-19 pandemic.

8. Efficient Use of Resources

Many businesses struggle with resource allocation. A business advisor can help you optimise how you use your time, money, and people, ensuring you get the most from your investments. If you’re not sure how to start analysing the figures, reviewing your resource allocation with your business advisor can take a weight off your shoulders. Leave it to us to provide recommendations on areas where you can improve efficiency.

9. Access to a Network of Resources

An experienced business advisor brings with them a vast network of professionals such as accountants, legal experts, marketing consultants, and even potential investors. These connections mean it’s easy to seek customised and comprehensive solutions best suited to your business model, goals, and budget. You can read more about our network and experience here.

10. Accountability and Focus

One of the key benefits of hiring a business advisor is having someone to hold you accountable for your goals and regularly assess progress. If you’re especially involved with the day-to-day operations of your business, this can distract from or take priority over your long-term objectives. An advisor will set up monthly review meetings to stay focused on growth initiatives and the bigger picture — so you can be as hands-on as you’d like.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a business advisor isn’t just for large corporations; small and medium-sized businesses can greatly benefit from this expertise. Whether you’re looking to increase profitability, improve efficiency, or navigate complex challenges, a business advisor can be your guide to achieving sustainable growth.

If you’re a business owner in Melbourne looking to take your operations to the next level, now is the time to consider bringing a business advisor on board. With our insights and specialised expertise in finance, The Co. strives to provide maximum value to your business. Get in touch today to discover how we can work together.

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Peter Mercuri

Founder and Managing Director

pmercuri@theco.com.au

BIO

Peter has always been results-driven with a passion for helping businesses grow. This passion is part of what makes The Co. stand out as an accounting firm.

Peter is a modern and dynamic thinker looking to break the mould of the stereotypical accounting persona. He is particularly skilled and experienced in the areas of tax planning and business strategies.

Peter lived and worked in London in 2009, where he witnessed a slump in the market. He worked as an international financial controller for a multinational engineering company, consequently gaining vast finance and management experience. Peter then returned to Australia and set up The Co. Accountants in the Melbourne CBD, working in the capacity of Director. He dedicates his time advising clients and businesses on how to achieve their goals.

Peter assists clients through effective strategic implementation and by ensuring they are guided through the process with a hands-on approach. It is not often that you’ll find Peter at the office behind his desk. He recognises that to gain a real perspective of a client’s business and provide sound advice, he needs to be on the front line and fully engaging in the workings of your company.

When you can peel him away from work, Peter loves spending time with his family, especially around the table with great food, or socialising with friends at the local brewery. He loves having a good laugh because, otherwise, life is little too serious.

Education

  • Deakin University, Melbourne
  • CA Qualifications

Areas of Expertise

  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing
  • Hospitality
  • Construction
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Tim McColl

Partner

tmccoll@theco.com.au

BIO

Tim began his accounting career in his late teens, working full-time while completing his tertiary studies, then further completing his CA. He believes the most important strategy in life is the one you set for achieving your goals.

When partnering with clients, Tim has an honest and caring nature, helping them determine what they want to accomplish in their financial and business goals. A personalised, empathetic approach is a hallmark of Tim’s style.

Tim covers a broad range of clients, specialising in business tax and compliance advice. He prepares financial statements, helps clients manage their accounting systems and other routine business matters.

He is motivated by his clients’ success and finds great satisfaction in knowing his team contributed to this.

Education

  • Bachelor of Business RMIT
  • CA Qualified

Areas of Expertise

  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing
  • Hospitality
  • Construction
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Khairil (CK) Choong

Business Services Manager

kchoong@theco.com.au

BIO

Khairil Choong (CK) is The Co’s Business Services Manager.

CK joined The Co. in June 2022 and brings with him over 25 years of professional experience from his work  in industries as diverse as  logistics, finance, manufacturing and retail. This broad experience has taught CK that success is always tied to delivering the optimal customer experience.

CK holds a Bachelor of Business (Accountancy) from RMIT and is a qualified accountant, having been awarded his CPA designation in 2009.

CK’s professional qualifications, when combined with his practice management responsibilities and unwavering customer focus create a unique synergy which helps ensures that The Co. is always operating at its best.

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Biljana Risteska

Manager

bristeska@theco.com.au

BIO

Biljana is an experienced public practice accountant with a passion for tax. She has had exposure to a vast variety of industries and clients, and particularly enjoys tax planning and accounting for smsfs. Her desire for continuous learning ensures clients are exposed to up-to-date tax advice.

In her spare time, she enjoys reading and doing crossword puzzles.

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Alicia Ong

Assistant Manager

aong@theco.com.au

BIO

Alicia is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with over 10 years of experience in public accounting. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to providing exceptional financial services to individuals and businesses across a wide range of industries. With her personalized approach, Alicia ensures that each client receives tailored solutions to meet their specific needs and goals.

As a versatile team player, Alicia understands the various areas of financial management. Her knowledge spans across financial compliance, tax preparation and planning, SMSF compliance and audit, and audit review. She consistently demonstrates her ability to navigate complex financial regulations and deliver accurate and reliable results.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Alicia cherishes her time with family, friends, and beloved pets. She finds joy in exploring the vibrant city of Melbourne, indulging in its culinary delights, and embarking on new food adventures. Alicia’s dedication to both her work and personal life exemplifies her balanced and fulfilling approach to success.

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Mark Pannuzzo

Assistant Manager

mpannuzzo@theco.com.au

BIO

Mark is a meticulous senior accountant with a fierce attention to detail. He is a reliable professional with a demonstrated history of working within the tax advisory and business services industry. Mark has had exposure to a diverse range of clients operating predominantly within the construction, property development and professional services industries. Mark takes unequivocal care in his work/advice and aims to lead by example. With a progressive mindset and an inherent ability to manage, he will certainly always endeavour to yield a mutually advantageous outcome for his clients and the firm.

Outside of the office, Mark loves the game of golf and the St Kilda Football Club. He is also a self-proclaimed foodie and enjoys time in the kitchen with those closest to him.

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Zac Ibrhaim-McCarty

Assistant Manager

zibrhaimmccarty@theco.com.au

BIO

Zac is a Chartered Accountant specialising in resolving tax issues for business owners. With experience ranging from Australian subsidiaries of multinational organisations to sole traders and small enterprises, Zac excels in simplifying complex tax situations, making compliance and planning accessible and straightforward.

Known for a business-minded approach, Zac aligns financial practices with long-term business goals, helping clients develop tax-efficient strategies and manage compliance effectively. Dedicated to contributing to client success and growth, Zac brings both expertise and practicality to every engagement.

Outside of work, Zac enjoys playing basketball, taking the scenic route on the golf course and going out to enjoy a meal with family and friends, balancing professional dedication with personal passions.

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Paul Reed

Senior Accountant

preed@theco.com.au

BIO

Paul is an experienced taxation accountant who started at The Co. in early-2020. He has worked within several public practices and has good knowledge in the medical, retail and light industry areas.

Paul is always looking to assist clients and happy to go that ‘extra step’.

He is a keen football follower and likes to keep active, jogging and hiking both being favourite pastimes.

Education

  • Master of Accounting, Bachelor of Commerce
  • CA Qualified

Areas of Expertise

  • Medical
  • Retail
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Lucas Sa

Accountant

BIO

Lucas is an enthusiastic and motivated professional, with more than ten years of experience in financial and accounting processes, with a differentiated profile, able to offer efficient solutions in the finance and accounting fields. He has a strong ability to analyse problems, with excellent analytical qualities, able to understand and adjust work procedures, looking at maximum efficiency in the results. High capacity to prevent scenarios, which makes it easier to anticipate ideas for solving problems. Multitasking profile, being able to work simultaneously with several activities, maintaining excellence in the quality of the work provided.

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Karla da Cruz

Accountant

kdacruz@theco.com.au

BIO

Karla has over twelve years of experience in the accounting field as an accountant and tax analyst. With her solid analytical and process improvement abilities, Karla has experience working with a variety of clients and industries.

She is enthusiastic, enjoys the supportive team dynamic, is constantly eager to expand her expertise and take on responsibilities and challenges. She is currently working towards her CPA qualification.

She is most passionate about delivering top-notch services and cultivating long-lasting relationships with customers at The Co.

In her spare time, Karla likes socialising with friends and family, going camping for the day, playing video games, and playing the drums.

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Jackson Hurst

Accountant

jhurst@theco.com.au

BIO

Jackson is a dedicated and enthusiastic accountant with a growing foundation in the field. Known for his eagerness to learn and expand his knowledge, Jackson has quickly developed a keen understanding of financial principles and practices and brings a fresh perspective and a proactive attitude to the team. He has demonstrated a strong ability to adapt and excel in a dynamic work environment and his passion for continuous improvement and dedication to professional growth make him a valuable asset to the firm.

Outside of the office, Jackson enjoys camping and exploring the great outdoors. He is also a food enthusiast who loves discovering and indulging in delicious culinary experiences.

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Kate Anstee

Office Manager

BIO

Let's work together

Our Melbourne CBD Accountants are passionate about understanding the true purpose behind your business. By marrying this insight with expert knowledge and support, we’re able to communicate much more than just the facts. At The Co. Accountants, we pride ourselves on becoming a reliable partner who is invested in the success of your business.

With a diverse mix of experts and industry-leading advisors, accessible when you need them, The Co. Accountants offers you world-class business accounting and financial planning services with local flair. As forerunners in the space, we provide our clients with an eclectic mix of offerings: from Book Keeping to Tax Compliance to Business Advisory to Outsourced CFO services, our full suite of services and multi-faceted approach means we ensure lasting change.

Remember, we’re not like the rest of the competition. We truly care about seeing our clients succeed. For us, it’s about much more than just great numbers. At The Co., we believe in building relationships that last while delivering exceptional results which set you apart from the competition. Together, this collective team spirit allows us to hone in on your challenges with a driving focus that provides maximum value to your business.

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+61 3 8488 9800
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info@theco.com.au

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