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Introducing Your Team.
Our commitment to excellence, innovation and growth is backed up by our team of talented individuals. Committed to you and your business, our team draws on local, national and international experience to create effective, customised solutions for every client.
Management Team
Certificate of Public Practice
- M 027 586 1452
- T (03) 366 2203
- E chriss@leech.co.nz
Chris is a Cantabrian. He was educated at Christ’s College and awarded his Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Canterbury. After a year as a graduate accountant working in the Auckland CBD, the appeal of working in Christchurch’s ‘Big Four’ accounting firm environment called him home. Chris became a Chartered Accountant in 2003 and joined Leech & Partners three years later. In 2014, he became a Partner.
Chris specialises in commercial business, attending to periodic advisory, governance advisory, tax advisory and assisting with annual compliance. He has developed a strong specialisation in the commercial and residential construction sector, assisting a number of clients with financial advisory and compliance in the context of the Construction Contracts Act. Alongside that, Chris is involved with numerous commercial sectors in both the South and North Island.
Chris and his wife, Megan, have two children, Kelsey and Campbell. When he’s not in the office, Chris enjoys a game of squash and any opportunity to escape with his family to their bach in Duvauchelle.
Certificate of Public Practice
- M 027 222 7083
- T (03) 366 2203
- E glen@leech.co.nz
Originally from rural Ashburton, Glen joined Leech & Partners as a graduate accountant in 1997 with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Canterbury. After completing his practical experience and professional exams, Glen was admitted to the Chartered Accountants of Australia and New Zealand and now holds a Certificate of Public Practice.
In 2001, it became clear that Leech & Partners needed to expand outside of Ashburton. Glen was a founding staff member of our Christchurch office, and he became a shareholder and Partner of the firm in 2008.
Glen has always worked closely with his commercial clients, providing them with everything from taxation and budgeting advice to strategic business advisory services. Glen loves seeing his clients and their businesses thrive. He’s known for his timely approach and his dedication to building strong, long-lasting relationships with his clients.
Outside of work, Glen enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Elle, and two children. He’s a keen cyclist and avid rugby fan.
Certificate of Public Practice
- M 022 619 0629
- T (03) 366 2203
- E jon@leech.co.nz
Known for being a proactive, friendly problem solver, Jon joined us in 2016 and became a Partner in 2018.
Jon manages a diverse portfolio of farming and commercial clients, helping them with everything from everyday accounting compliance to governance and advisory. He is an expert in developing sustainable futures, often working with several generations of business owners on succession planning and forecasting.
For Jon, it’s not only about the numbers but the people. “I really like talking to my clients, understanding what it is that keeps them awake at night and then working hard to fix their problems,” Jon said. A great negotiator and mediator, Jon’s goal is to present a solution that not only works now, but decades from now. This involves a thorough understanding of his clients’ needs along with the legislative and financial environment, and how that environment could affect his clients in the future.
As a Partner, Jon works hard to realise a sustainable future for our firm, ensuring our staff are knowledgeable, happy, confident and enjoy what they do. Jon is based primarily in our Christchurch office and travels to Ashburton to meet with clients regularly.
Jon grew up on a family farm near Darfield, which seeded his passion for agribusiness accounting. Now, Jon is married with two kids and loves spending time with them on the farm and outdoors, fishing, running or playing golf.
Certificate of Public Practice
- M 027 435 0665
- T (03) 307 6688
- E neil@leech.co.nz
Having joined our team in 1986, Neil is one of our original team members. Since then, Neil has become a Partner, cultivated a vast skillset, and helped expand our team.
With over 40 years in the industry, Neil is an expert in business development, personal finance advisory, taxation, GST, and management accounting. His favourite work includes succession planning and working with family farms, using his knowledge of agribusiness accounting to help his clients however he can.
Neil believes in developing great client relationships. “Some of my clients have been with me for 30 or 40 years. My main goal is to get things right so my clients can sleep well at night,” Neil explains. This approach extends to his work here within the firm with Neil being a key part of developing our community from the beginning. “It’s a family here at Leech & Partners, and we all work together towards that central goal of looking after our clients.”
Prior to joining our firm, Neil received his graduate and postgraduate degrees in 1979 and became a Chartered Accountant that June. Neil now lives in Ashburton with his wife, Janeen. When he isn’t working, Neil enjoys water skiing—a lifelong passion that he has passed on to his children. As a family, they often spend their weekends water skiing together and helping with the administrative aspects of bringing water skiing to the Canterbury region.
Certificate of Public Practice
- M 021 234 7749
- T (03) 366 2203
- E nick@leech.co.nz
Nick joined our firm in 2009, becoming a Partner and shareholder in 2014, and the Chairman of our Board in 2022. He specialises in agribusiness and commercial accounting and advisory work, working with numerous clients in both fields.
Growing up on a family farm in Canterbury seeded Nick’s passion for agribusiness and helped establish his grassroots approach to supporting his clients. He is always happy to help, aiding with everything from accounting compliance through to strategic advice. Future-focused with an eye firmly on the present, Nick enjoys listening to and working with his clients to solve complex problems and harness opportunities.
Nick’s practical skills and empathetic nature also lend themselves well to his governance roles, both internally as our Chairman of the Board and externally on the board of many clients’ business and non-profits, including his local boating club and Akaroa Health Ltd.
Nick’s expertise comes not only from his time with our firm, but also from his years of working in London and at one of the ‘Big Four’ in Christchurch. He has a postgraduate degree from the University of Canterbury and became a Chartered accountant in 2006. Outside of work, Nick enjoys sailing and boating in Akaroa harbour with his wife, Sophie, and their friends. Winters are often spent skiing and longer holidays see Nick and Sophie travelling abroad.
Certificate of Public Practice
With over 20 years of experience in commercial and agricultural business advisory, James thoroughly understands his clients’ challenges and opportunities.
For James, success is seeing his clients’ businesses thrive and grow over a number of years. He enjoys helping his clients solve problems, serving them as best as he can to make their lives easier. James is known for his pragmatic and positive approach, focusing on empowering his clients to make smart financial and business decisions. “My role is to give clients the confidence they need to make decisions, whether that be investments or day-to-day decisions,” James said.
With his two areas of specialisation, James gets a chance to meet with his clients in the office or on the farm. His clients range from technology companies and property firms to farmers throughout Canterbury.
When asked what is the best part of his job, James said, “the people. Whether that’s clients or the team I work with, they are the ones that make this job rewarding.”
James grew up on a family farm in Rakaia Gorge. He now lives in Christchurch with his wife and three boys.
- M 027 426 1142
- T (03) 307 6688
- E julie@leech.co.nz
Julie is a trusted advisor, businesswoman, innovator and motivator. She is well known for her personal, collaborative approach and has become a familiar, friendly face to many clients and professionals since starting at Leech in Partners in 1990. Since then, Julie has focused on building trusted and successful relationships with clients and teammates, pouring her energy and skills into ensuring the continued success of the firm for generations to come. Julie became an Associate Partner in 2014.
Julie’s depth of knowledge and expertise enables her to fully support her clients in everything from day-to-day accounting advice through to succession planning, governance and advisory work. She has a broad range of experience working in agribusiness, hospitality, manufacturing, construction, and with commercial and retail enterprises. She genuinely cares about her clients and their businesses, making sure she understands their goals and challenges to aid them in the best way possible.
Passionate about her Canterbury community, Julie loves to give back and has been involved in several local advisory boards over the years. She is a mother and a wife, and loves to spend as much time as possible outdoors. When inside, her interests involve home restoration and DIY projects.
Ben is well known for his focus, calm demeanour and dedication. Helping clients with everything from financial strategy to periodic financial reporting, Ben enjoys seeing his clients succeed by tailoring his methodical approach to their unique situations and goals. There for the long term, Ben loves seeing his clients’ companies grow organically and thrive over time.
An expert in commercial accounting, Ben specialises in property, investments, trusts, and construction. He particularly enjoys tackling complex accounting, such as ensuring construction companies have a comprehensive understanding of their income in advance and work-in-progress on each project. In an industry where receipt and payment don’t always line up, Ben’s construction clients must know their margins and track profitability of each job so they have a thorough understanding of how they are performing. Ben enjoys not only crunching these numbers, but talking them through with his clients and exploring how operations can be optimised moving forward.
Ben became part of the Leech & Partners team in 2012. A Chartered Accountant with a Certificate of Public Practice, Ben brought with him a Bachelor of Commerce and an impressive resume. He has been a helpful and conscientious member of our team ever since.
Exercise and socialising are his callings outside of work. Ben keeps fit by running, biking, bouldering, hiking, and swimming. He also enjoys spending time with friends and family on the weekends.
A trusted business advisor to many, Andrew is approachable, determined and process-driven. He is known for cultivating long lasting relationships with his clients, using his expertise in rural accounting to help with everything from everyday tax compliance and budgeting to succession planning and trusts.
Having grown up on a family farm in the Manawatū, Andrew has always had a passion for farming. This passion grew with his career in rural banking, and when it was time for something new, Andrew pursued a career in agribusiness accounting. He has a strong rural focus and especially enjoys working with family farms. His years in banking enable Andrew’s unique perspective on finance, accounting, and budgeting and how these three important elements of business come together.
When asked what his favourite part of his job is, Andrew said it was meeting with clients, whether that’s on the farm or in the office, and really getting to the heart of their business. If there’s an issue to be solved or an opportunity to be harnessed, Andrew is always there to help. His goal is to bring together the rural and financial and see his clients thrive.
Andrew joined our team in June 2023 as a Chartered Accountant with an Applied Science degree and a postgraduate degree in Finance and Business Administration. Outside of work, Andrew enjoys any opportunity to experience the great outdoors with his wife and children. His weekends are often spent hunting, fishing, skiing, and exploring the South Island.
Known for being empathetic and a real people person, Wendy makes a fantastic People & Culture Manager. She joined our team in May 2023 with a wealth of experience, an NZIM Diploma in Business specialising in Human Resources, and several other HR related accreditations. Over her 16-year career working at large accounting firms, within the Primary Industry, and as a consultant, Wendy cultivated a formidable skill set developing strong relationships through coaching, mentoring and team building.
Now, Wendy works at Leech & Partners on everything from human resource fundamentals to strategic people projects, ensuring our team has everything they need to thrive. She spends her days in both our Ashburton and Christchurch offices. Wendy loves supporting people, and seeing people develop professionally and personally, which motivates her to come to work each day. She knows that everything stems from trust and works to cultivate that trust with whomever she is working with.
Outside of work, Wendy enjoys being outdoors with her husband and two daughters, walking the hills, biking, or at home baking. Her wellbeing is important, so Wendy starts most days with Yoga / Pilates, and often takes the boat out fishing at Lake Coleridge or Lake Brunner.
Accounting Teams
Client Managers
Andrew is known for his big picture thinking, looking beyond the numbers and solving problems to add value to his clients’ businesses. From preparing financial accounts and tax returns to management reporting, Andrew’s days reflect his dedication to his clients and his ingenuity in helping them achieve financial success. He is a Chartered Accountant and has a Bachelor of Commerce. Originally from Christchurch, Andrew worked at several local accounting firms before joining us in May 2021. Outside the office, Andrew enjoys spending time outdoors and playing football and futsal at a competitive level.
In his role as Client Manager, Andrew is the go-to person for his clients. On any given day, Andrew can be found preparing annual accounts, tax returns, or GST payments. Known for his diligent and hard-working nature, Andrew always assists his clients in a timely and dedicated manner. He enjoys any opportunity to learn, bringing with him a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and he is looking forward to starting his Chartered Accountant studies in the near future. When he isn’t helping clients, Andrew enjoys exploring the outdoors and watching rugby and basketball with friends.
Ange joined our team in 2017 with a Bachelor of Commerce and a strong skill set in commercial accounting. Her previous experience includes working as a management accountant in the commercial sector and at one of the ‘Big Four’ accounting firms. At Leech & Partners, Ange helps a range of small to medium enterprises and large businesses with everything from regular financial statements and tax management to forecasting and budgeting. Her favourite part of her job is working with her clients, taking the time to truly understand their businesses and goals to give them tailored financial advice. Ange is a Chartered Accountant. Outside of work, Ange enjoys being outdoors, sharing adventures with her family and friends or going for a run.
With over 40 years of experience, Brett is a wealth of knowledge and an invaluable member of our team. Since he started in 2002, Brett has held several roles, including Manager, Director and now, Consultant.
A people person to the core, Brett loves working with his clients and teammates alike. He is known for his compassionate approach to helping clients solve their financial issues. Initially joining the team in a marketing capacity, Brett still enjoys working on the newsletter, providing news and resources to our clients nationwide.
Brett holds a Bachelor of Commerce and is a Chartered Accountant. Born in Christchurch, Brett is a true Crusaders fan, though he enjoys any opportunity to escape to his bach in the Marlborough Sounds or to see his grandchildren in Blenheim and Queenstown.
Hardworking and committed, Bridget started her career as an Office Junior at an accounting firm in Ashburton, studying part time to complete her New Zealand Diploma in Business and working her way up to her position as a Senior Accountant today. Joining us in July 2022, Bridget brings with her a range of experience from New Zealand and the UK, along with an easy-going and positive attitude. She enjoys working closely with her rural and commercial accounting clients. When she isn’t crunching numbers or assisting clients, Bridget loves being outdoors. Most of her annual leave is spent on mountain biking adventures, skiing, running marathons, or exploring New Zealand in a converted van.
Clair is known for her caring and positive attitude. She enjoys working with clients, using her knowledge and interpersonal skills to best achieve accounting goals and ensure tax compliance. Clair brought a Bachelor of Commerce and over eight years experience when she joined Leech & Partners in April 2021. She is a full member of CPA Australia and has worked within business advisory teams at Chartered Accounting firms. When she isn’t crunching numbers or helping a client, Clair can be found tramping, dancing, travelling or reading a good book.
Doré started with us in May 2023 as a Client Manager. Prior to that, she worked as a Junior Accountant in Tauranga and ran a virtual assistant business helping clients with day-to-day administration and accounting tasks.
Doré’s experience and skill set enable her to effectively and efficiently help her clients by preparing their annual accounts and aiding them with accounting software. Known for her dedication and determination, Doré loves solving her clients’ nitty gritty accounting problems so they can spend their time running their businesses and doing what they love.
Originally from South Africa, Doré moved to New Zealand in 2019 with her husband and son. Since settling in Christchurch, she has discovered a love for food and enjoys travelling, hiking and spending time with her son.
Known for her conscientious and thorough approach to her work, Dot has a genuine interest in farming, agricultural accounting, and seeing her clients thrive. She joined us in July 2022, bringing with her a Bachelor of Business and a strong background in the industry. The majority of her career has been spent in compliance accounting, though she has also been a farm accountant for a large, family-owned crop and dairy operation and a corporate sheep and beef farming business. Now she enjoys working with our agriculture clients here at Leech & Partners, particularly when she gets to help with their budgeting. Outside of work, Dot can be found getting active outdoors or spending quality time with family and friends.
Eesha joined us in November 2023. With experience in payroll, office management and financial analysis, along with a BSc (Hons) majoring in Business and Management and a Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting, Eesha makes a stellar Intermediate Client manager.
Eesha spends her time helping her clients with compliance, along with the preparation of their annual accounts and tax returns. Her hard working, friendly, and compassionate nature are just a few of Eesha’s strengths and why her clients like to work with her.
Originally from Sri Lanka, Eesha enjoys making Sri Lanka snacks and visiting new places. She is currently studying towards her CAANZ qualification.
With a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Otago and experience at an agriculture accounting firm in South Otago, Hannah understands agribusiness accounting. Joining Leech & Partners in April 2021, Hannah prepares annual reports and tax returns, providing assistance to clients when they need it. Her dedication and determination make her a valuable member of our team. Group fitness classes, reality TV and frequenting local restaurants are some of Hannah’s favourite ways to spend time outside of work.
Often described as hardworking and compassionate, Jonathan joined Leech & Partners in June 2021 as a Senior Client Manager. Jonathan brings with him over nine years of experience, having worked in Australia, London, Auckland and Ashburton. He has a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and is a member of the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand. When Jonathan isn’t working with clients to achieve their goals, he can be found snowboarding, running and travelling.
As a Client Manager, Josh takes care of all his clients’ accounting and taxation needs. He enjoys working with his clients to optimise their financials, helping with everything from GST returns to annual accounts. Josh is known for being hard working, resourceful and approachable, always putting in the extra effort to get the job done well.
Josh joined us in June 2023 with a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Accounting and Finance. He is working towards becoming a full member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand. His previous experience working on dairy and dry stock farms gives Josh an in-depth understanding of the opportunities and challenges of agribusiness. He also previously worked as an auditor for not-for-profit businesses.
Outside of work, Josh can usually be found playing golf or rowing. He used to row competitively while at university and now enjoys pursuing the passion in his spare time.
Raised on a dairy farm in Taupo and joining us with a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and Finance, Libby knows the ins and outs of agricultural accounting. Her work primarily consists of completing GST returns and annual accounts for her clients, but Libby is always there to help her clients however they need.
Libby is known for her determination, always going the extra mile to do the best job possible. She is kind and considerate, empathising with her clients and their unique situations as she crafts solutions for them.
Outside of work, Libby enjoys reading, spending time with friends and exploring Christchurch walks.
With her compassionate and optimistic attitude, it’s hard not to like working with Lizzy. She graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce and joined the team as a Graduate Accountant in July 2022. The core part of her role is to help clients however she can, though she enjoys any opportunity to learn and expand her knowledge base. “I’m a fast learner,” Lizzy said. “I love to solve problems, to help people and make them happy.” Lizzy also loves horse riding and spending time with her horses. On weekends and holidays, Lizzy enjoys going on camping trips around the South Island.
Karen understands the land and speaks the same language as our agrarian focused clients. She has a Bachelor of Science from Lincoln as well as P.D. Dip Viticulture & Oenology, P.G. Dip Teaching & Learning, BCOM, CA. Suffice to say, she is eminently qualified.
The secret behind her drive and determination?
‘I’m a big believer in drinking coffee.’
When not bringing her wealth of expertise to drive strategies around our clients’ accounting needs, she can be found in the hills on her mountain bike.
Kim’s organisational skills are a real strength. She delivers on deadlines and promises, producing regular reports and tax compliance advice that her clients can rely on. Before joining our team in 2003, Kim had a varied career that saw her working at the telephone exchange, as a farmer, and as a vet nurse. These experiences, along with Kim’s excellent accounting and business software skills and years of work at our firm, enable Kim to deliver the best financial outcomes for each client. But it’s not all about numbers and deadlines for Kim. She loves helping her clients, working with them to solve their problems. Kim has a Bachelor of Commerce and Management. When she isn’t helping clients, Kim can be found gardening, walking her dog or socialising with friends.
Marie is friendly, approachable and willing to go the extra mile to make every client’s day as smooth as possible. Joining us in 2016 as a Client Manager, Marie’s role is to support her clients, whether that be through regular compliance work and completing annual returns or helping them with their system queries. Her strategic mindset and empathetic nature are her strengths. Before joining our team, Marie worked in retail, hospitality, mail processing and at a call centre, giving her a broad customer service knowledge base. She also brought with her a Bachelor of Commerce. Outside of work, Marie enjoys family trips and catching up with friends for a BBQ. Once the kids are in bed, Marie likes to squeeze in some relaxing reading time too.
As a Client Manager, Mark works hard to prepare financial statements for his clients, including tax returns and GST returns.
Having spent his career working closely with his farming clients, Mark understands the necessities and opportunities of agri-accounting and how to help an agriculture business thrive. He is compassionate and approachable, known for building up lasting relationships with his clients.
Mark joined us in February 2024 after several years of working as an accountant in Invercargill. He has a Bachelor of Commerce and has completed a Chartered Accountancy course. On the weekend, Mark enjoys watching sports or playing golf.
Born and raised in Christchurch, Krystal worked for Westpac before heading to Western Australia to work in a small mining town. Returning to Christchurch in 2011, Krystal joined the Leech & Partners team. Krystal is known for being loyal, both to her clients and her co-workers, and for her can-do, disciplined attitude. She loves being a part of a team and helping whenever she can. On a day-to-day basis, Krystal prepares annual accounts and GST returns, and answers any queries her clients have. She enjoys water sports and going on family adventures with her husband and two daughters, though she also loves some down time and can be found reading and listening to country music. Krystal has a Diploma in Accounting.
Farm accounting is where Megan’s real interest lies. Having grown up in a country town, Megan loves working with her agriculture clients, whether that be through preparing their annual accounts, filing GST returns, or helping them solve problems. Known for being hardworking and organised, Megan enjoys working towards targets and having a good plan for how to best use her time. She joined us in July 2022 with a NZ Diploma in Business and as a qualified AT with CAANZ. When it comes to how to spend her holidays, Megan would choose fishing in the Marlborough Sounds (camping trips are family favourites!).
Having joined us in 2003 as a Junior Client Manager, Nicola worked her way up through the ranks and is now a Senior Manager. Her days consist of managing workflow, training junior and intermediate staff, planning and running team meetings, and new employee inductions. She loves working with her team and sharing in their joint successes. Additionally, Nicola manages a handful of clients, aiding them however she can. Known for being thorough, Nicola’s eye for detail is a great strength. She’s approachable and friendly, welcoming new employees with a smile.
Beyond the office, Nicola has three children who keep her and her husband busy. She loves playing tennis with her kids and supporting her son’s football team. Nicola has a N.Z. Diploma in Business and a Diploma in Accounting.
Paula grew up on a sheep farm in rural Southland and travelled for a while before settling in Christchurch. She’s performed a variety of roles in her career from Office Junior to Senior Client Manager and she has a NZ Diploma of Business. In her role here at Leech & Partners, Paula is responsible for annual compliance, monthly returns, management reporting and assisting her clients however she can. She is known for her efficiency and positivity. “I try to make the most of every day,” Paula said. “I work hard and always try to have a smile on my face.” She really enjoys her job and loves the clients she works with. Outside of work, Paula is often found outdoors (either tramping or mountain biking) or enjoying a good book/movie and a nice bottle of wine with family and friends.
Ravi began his accounting career in Fiji before moving to New Zealand. After working in a rural accounting firm for seven years, Ravi became a part of our team in 2019. An ambitious expert in agribusiness, Ravi reviews farm accounts for a handful of clients, manages workflow and helps his teammates resolve accounting queries. He enjoys the complexity of farm accounting and is always looking for ways to expand his agribusiness skills. Beyond the workplace, Ravi likes spending time with his family, playing football and watching rugby. Ravi has a N.Z. Diploma in Business and a Diploma in Accounting.
Ricky’s greatest joy is helping people. Whether it’s assisting his clients with tax compliance and annual returns or problem solving with teammates, Ricky is always there to lend a hand. “I enjoy working and collaborating in a team to provide value-adding services and innovative solutions to all clients,” Ricky says.
Ricky joined us in 2018 with a Bachelor in Applied Management (Accounting). He is an Associate Chartered Accountant, has a vast knowledge of Xero, and is known for being a steady worker who takes pride in being part of a successful team. Outside of work, Ricky is heavily involved in all things Canterbury AFL and enjoys playing for the Mid Canterbury Eagles, spending time with his family, and watching speedway.
Administration and Support Staff
Approachable, hardworking and organised, Gabriela (Gabs) ensures the seamless operation of many elements of our Christchurch office.
Gabs is the friendly face clients see when they first walk through our doors. A real people person, Gabs provides exceptional customer service and strives to make every client feel welcome, whether they’re new or visit us regularly. She also supports the Directors and accountants through timely administration and accounts work, and in the remainder of her time she’s working on our firm’s marketing.
When Gabs isn’t wearing one of her many workplace hats, she loves hiking, playing social netball, catching up with friends and family and taking her dog for walks on the beach.
Juliet brings with her a wide range of experience from her rich career in London and here in New Zealand. She has worked in office administration and PA roles in engineering and construction companies, and strives to fully support the smooth functioning and operation of a business. At Leech & Partners, Juliet puts these skills to use as our Office Administrator. She is known for her detail-oriented and process-driven approach to tasks while also being a supportive member of her team. Outside of work, Juliet enjoys exploring Christchurch with her husband and walks on the beach with their two dogs.
Shania is the friendly face you’ll see when you walk through the doors of our Christchurch office. As a receptionist, her core roles at Leech & Partners consist of greeting clients and assisting with their needs, along with helping our staff in any way possible to ensure the office runs smoothly.
Shania’s motto is ‘kindness goes a long way’, and this is evident in all she does, always bringing a smile and a positive attitude to her work. She’s a hardworking individual who constantly strives to improve her skills and abilities to better serve those around her.
Born and raised in Christchurch, Shania joined us with a Certificate in Business Administration and Technology. Outside of work, she enjoys travelling, yoga, walking, spending time with her partner and family, and exploring new restaurants and bars in Christchurch.
Having worked as a Personal Assistant in accounting firms for seven years and previously working as a Conference and Events Manager, Trudi knows how to get things done. Her strengths are organisation, maximising efficiency and problem solving. As she says, “work smarter, not harder.” The amazing thing about Trudi is that she does it all with a smile and sense of humour; she has an outgoing personality and a love of fun. She’s obsessed with word games (especially scrabble and boggle), loves her weekly adult ballet classes, and enjoys going on walks with her family or snuggling up to watch movies. In her role here at Leech & Partners, she works as James Nell’s Personal Assistant and enjoys helping him and the wider accounting team however possible.
Client Managers
Detailed-oriented and reliable, Anna goes the extra mile to get every job done well. Anna helps her clients through careful preparation of financial accounts and taxation statements while also troubleshooting and providing support to those working with Xero, MYOB, Farm Focus and other financial software. Her favourite part of her job is helping her clients achieve their goals and seeing them succeed.
Anna joined us in 2018 after working in both agricultural and commercial accounting. She is a Chartered Accountant and has a Bachelor of Commerce and a Postgraduate Diploma in Agribusiness. The outdoors beckons her on the weekends and she can often be found camping, boating and adventuring with family and friends.
David has been an integral part of the Leech & Partners team since 2004. Having taken care of our clients’ needs for more than a decade, David’s accounting competencies are well known amongst his peers. A firm believer in being on time, every time, he is known for being on hand to lend a hand.
‘When not at work, I like playing golf and travelling, and combining those two pursuits if possible.’
Before working with us, he was with Pyne Gould Guinness Limited, and before that Perpetual Trust Limited. This previous experience has proven invaluable for our client base.
Debbie strives for perfection and never lets a challenge beat her. This determination makes her an excellent Senior Client Manager, working with her clients on a day-to-day basis to solve problems and help them realise their goals.
Debbie joined us in 2005, bringing with her a Bachelor of Commerce. She is now a Chartered Accountant. Since starting with us, Debbie has worked with several of our largest clients and understands the financial needs and challenges of large-scale businesses.
Debbie also manages our in-house IT, aiding her colleagues to ensure their computer systems are running smoothly and efficiently. When not at her desk, Debbie enjoys attending concerts and live sporting events, especially a good cricket game.
As passionate about her work as she is effective, Eimeren prioritises her clients and their financial needs at every turn. She is proactive, organised and known for being a great listener and communicator.
Joining our team in January 2024 with over seven years of experience in commercial accounting and a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Eimeren has the skills and expertise to help her clients with everything from preparing financial statements and compliance reports to GST returns. She particularly enjoys the investigation and organisation required for financial accounting.
Originally from the Philippines, Eimeren moved to New Zealand in 2019 with her husband and two children. When she isn’t in the office, Eimeren enjoys going on family camping trips, hiking, biking and exploring New Zealand food and culture.
- Currently on maternity leave
- E georgia@leech.co.nz
Georgia started her accounting career in 2014 with a Bachelor of Commerce. She worked in London and Nelson before joining us in 2019.
A Chartered Accountant and business software specialist, Georgia helps her clients set up and work with software like Xero, Farm Focus, and MYOB. She is known for her strong work ethic and friendly, energetic approach to her work. Georgia takes the time to understand her clients’ needs and works with them to develop unique solutions to their problems. She loves making her clients’ lives easier, streamlining their financial operations and giving them back valuable time.
Georgia lives on a farm near Ashburton and enjoys getting outside, working on the farm and spending time with her family and friends.
Jenny has been an integral part of our team for over 30 years. As a Xero and Farm Focus Certified Chartered Accountant, Jenny makes a great Senior Client Manager. Her vast expertise and data-driven nature are real strengths when it comes to helping her clients with everything from accounting software to GST returns and the preparation of annual accounts. Jenny enjoys working with our farming and commercial clients the most. When she isn’t in the office, Jenny can often be found on her lifestyle block or travelling. She enjoys Pilates and photography, and takes care of the bookkeeping for the Brady family business.
Karlene joined our team in 2000. She is reliable, easy-going and prides herself in her work. Detail orientated and great with numbers, Karlene is known for preparing thorough financial statements and GST returns for her clients. She loves working with people, both with our team at the Ashburton office and her commercial and farming clients. “I enjoy creating relationships with clients where we can chat about more than just the numbers,” Karlene says. Karlene holds a Diploma in Accounting, Finance & Information Systems and a Bachelor of Commerce. Originally from Hokitika, Karlene now lives in Ashburton with her family. When she isn’t having fun exploring with her daughter, Karlene enjoys kayaking around the network of canals at Lake Hood and catching up with friends.
Kelly has been an integral part of our team since 1997. With us from the early days, Kelly helped develop the cultural foundation our firm has been built upon. Since joining as a Junior Client Manager, Kelly has expanded her expertise and now oversees the client manager team in Ashburton. Her varied role includes managing her team’s workflow, ensuring policies are up to date and serving their purposes, and that everything is running smoothly in the team. Alongside these management responsibilities, Kelly also works with commercial and agribusiness clients, helping them with all areas of accounting.
Kelly lives in Ashburton with her husband and daughter. She is an Associate Chartered Accountant and holds a N.Z. Diploma in Business. Outside of work, she enjoys taking her dog, Millie, on walking adventures, gardening and going to concerts.
Natasha thinks outside the box, using her critical thinking and problem-solving skills to help her clients navigate financial issues and opportunities. When paired with her friendly, respectful and customer-first approach to her job, it’s easy to see how Natasha makes a great Client Manager. Working with commercial and agribusiness clients, Natasha prepares financial statements, GST and other compliance reports, as well as helping with accounting software like MYOB, Xero and Figured. Natasha is also future-focused, aiding her clients with forecasting and budgeting. A lifelong proponent of continual change and education, Natasha is dedicated to developing her skills. When she isn’t in the office, Natasha likes to stay active, travel and spend time with friends and family.
Phoenix is a detail-oriented and resilient person. She’s known for being friendly and always willing to have a chat to figure out how she can help. Joining us as a Client Manager in January 2024, Phoenix spends her days aiding clients with GST returns, taxation, and with their accounting software needs in MYOB and Xero. She has a bachelor’s degree in Accounting Technology and a Graduate Diploma in Accounting.
Prior to joining our team, Phoenix worked in a variety of financial and administrative roles at retail stores and banks. She is from the Philippines and is passionate about hiking and exploring New Zealand.
A Chartered Accountant with a Bachelor of Commerce & Management from Lincoln, Stephen joined our team in 2004. Before that, he worked for Perpetual Trust.
He excels at formulating financial statements and tax returns for all types of clients, preparing GST and other tax returns.
‘I aim to be a team player, to be efficient, and to work well with clients.’
In his spare time, Stephen is a keen reader and model maker.
With decades of experience in accounting and a thorough working knowledge of rural life, Tracey makes a great Client Manager. Born and bred in South Otago before moving to Ashburton in 1996, Tracey worked for a small rural accounting firm before joining our team in 2019. Nowadays, Tracey spends her time preparing GST returns and financial statements for her clients. Known for being friendly and hardworking, Tracey enjoys getting to know her clients, working closely with them to assist with any problems or opportunities that arise. When not hard at work, Tracey spends time biking, helping her children get from point A to point B and, in her quieter moments, reading good books. She has a NZ Diploma of Business and is a qualified Accounting Technician.
Val is known for being hardworking and reliable, and you can always find her with a smile. She joined our team in April 2022 as a Client Manager. Born and raised in Ukraine, Val moved to New Zealand eighteen years ago. She has a great range of experience in the agricultural and dairy industries, making her a fantastic addition to our team. Val also has a Master’s degree in Economics. Outside of work, Val enjoys walking, cross-stitching and foraging for mushrooms (porcini especially!).
Administration and Support Staff
Always willing to help and learn more, when Adelle isn’t looking after our accounts receivable/ payable, and keeping our database up to date, she can be found assisting partners and our accounting team as required with work overload/administration.
‘Depending on which of the partners you’re talking with, I’m either our Administration Assistant or Accounts Receivable/Payable person.’
She joined us in July 2002 having worked in the electronic security sector before that and is the friendly voice you often hear answering our phones at peak times. Outside of work, Adelle loves crafts, camping, as well as visiting friends and family out of town.
Emma joined our team in January 2024. Her caring and empathetic nature makes her a fantastic Business Administrator, and she always goes the extra mile to provide the best administration support for our Ashburton team and clients. She’s also known for being diligent and efficient.
Before joining our team, Emma gained a variety of useful experience working as a receptionist, helping with accounts, and as a 2IC for a physiotherapist. She has a Certificate of Business in Administration and Technology.
On the weekends and evenings, Emma spends as much time as possible outdoors, playing tennis or finding new places to hike. She also loves food and enjoys finding new restaurants to try.
Janna’s patient and conscientious nature, along with her awesome sense of humour, are just part of what makes her a great administrator. She originally joined the team in 1997, taking a five-year break in 2002 before coming back in 2007. Janna specialises in tax administration, and she loves helping the team answer difficult tax administration queries. She also liaises with the Inland Revenue Department and performs other administration tasks as needed. She’s a huge rugby fan, supporting the Crusaders and All Blacks whenever she can. Janna also enjoys travelling and spending time with family and friends.
Wendy’s resume is a ‘who’s who’ of local and international business leaders. Names like the New Zealand Trade Development Board and Mair Astley, London indicate the depth of her experience.
Joining us in 2012, she has been our front of house champion, answering phones, typing, filing, scanning, greeting clients, preparing Minutes as well as arranging morning tea, lunches & afternoon teas. ‘I have a willingness to put my hand to anything, presenting a friendly manner to staff and clients, and assisting partners & staff where required.’
When not at work, Wendy enjoys travel, theatre, gardening, reading, renovations, and designing landscapes.
