Building business partnerships that grow with you

When business owners talk about what they need from their advisors, they rarely mention just the technical services. What they really want is someone who understands their vision, anticipates their challenges, and stands beside them as they navigate growth and change.

Yes, this is unashamedly a message about how we can help your business. But that’s because we’ve seen firsthand how the right partnership maximises what’s possible for our clients—and that’s what genuinely drives us. Every spreadsheet we simplify, every process we streamline, every challenge we solve together adds meaning to our work.

Creating efficiency in times of business change

When The Zone Global approached us, they were in the midst of a major restructure. Like many growing companies, they were dealing with more than just tax questions. Their operations were feeling the strain, and bottlenecks in admin processes were slowing things down.

Liam Forde, a group director who had worked with us for many years, invited our team to collaborate directly with their accounts person in New Zealand (NZ) and their general manager in the United Kingdom (UK).

Working across time zones, we identified ways to restructure administrative roles, streamline workflows, and address the specific hurdles blocking their progress. But rather than simply offering recommendations, we took an active role in implementing solutions.

We helped hire and train a new accounts administrator, cleaned up their internal database, and made sure the right information was getting to the right people. The result was a more connected operation where systems now support their growth rather than bottlenecking it.

Making financial systems work for your goals

An engineering firm came to us looking for help with monthly accounts. This established firm had built an impressive 40-year legacy delivering major power generation and industrial electrical projects throughout New Zealand.

Their project management systems were solid, meaning they could track job-level performance well. But they lacked clarity at the business level, and without it, making strategic decisions about expansion difficult.

As we got to know their team, it became clear where we could help. We simplified their internal processes, supported payroll and batch payments, and ensured they had access to real-time financial data through Xero. Importantly, we documented procedures that would allow for consistent financial management as they scaled.

A significant breakthrough came when we identified the need for a part-time administrator who could handle both accounts and admin work. Our team managed the entire recruitment process, trained the new team member, and implemented the best practices from day one. This freed leadership from operational pressures and gave them space to focus on growth.

What started as a straightforward accounting relationship with the engineering firm, grew into one that went beyond that. Today, we facilitate planning workshops and provide input on shareholder agreements and governance matters, proving our commitment extends to their long-term success.

How our hands-on approach benefits your business

When you’re running a business, technical advice on its own isn’t enough. You need someone who understands your context, adapts to your needs, and works with you to get things done.

That’s what we do at Gilligan Sheppard. We integrate with your business and shape our support around your goals. Whether you’re:

• Building a business with ambitions to scale

• Managing a successful company seeking greater efficiency
• Planning for succession or a potential sale
• Looking to protect and grow wealth you have already created

In each case, our commitment remains the same. We become part of your team, working to understand your goals, identify opportunities, and implement practical solutions that create lasting value.

Moving forward together

It’s easy to feel like you’re carrying the weight of the business alone. The right support can change that. Having a partner who understands what you’re up against – and who is willing to be in it with you – can make all the difference.

Like The Zone Global and the engineering firm, you might start with one need in mind. But as trust grows, the relationship often becomes much more. We’re not just accountants – we’re your business partner.

Ask yourself: Are your current advisors as invested in your success as you are? Do they roll up their sleeves and tackle problems alongside you? If you’re hesitating, or getting excuses instead of solutions, perhaps it’s time for a conversation. Come meet with us, no strings attached, and experience what a true business partnership feels like.

If you need an advisor who will get stuck in and help drive your business forward, contact Amy directly at amyh@gilshep.co.nz or +64 21 182 4665 to discuss how we can support your business goals.