South Australia’s largest locally owned and operated accounting and advisory firm has announced a change in leadership.
Adrian Chugg will become the new SA Managing Director of William Buck, replacing Jamie McKeough who is stepping down after 18 years in the role.
With the transition effective from July 1, Adrian will lead a team of 24 Directors and total staff of 230. He will be just the 7th Managing Director in the 78-year history of the Adelaide office.
Jamie, who has been with the firm for 36 years, will take on the newly created position of Executive Chair at the Adelaide office while continuing in his group role as Chair of William Buck Australia and New Zealand.
“Jamie has led William Buck through a strong growth period and been instrumental in our firm becoming a leader in accounting and advisory services,” Adrian said.
“He has led by example to build a positive and progressive culture that has enabled growth of our clients and our staff. I am honoured to take over the leadership of such a modern, dynamic team of dedicated professionals.
“Since the Adelaide office was established in 1946, our firm has helped South Australian businesses and individuals reach their full potential. I look forward to building on that tradition and working with our Director group and staff in helping our clients maximise the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Adrian Chugg, 45, joined William Buck in 2003 as an accountant, moving from Tasmania to Adelaide to take up the position. In 2008, Adrian was promoted to a Director of the firm and in 2014 helped establish William Buck’s Corporate Finance division, which he currently leads. He has been a member of the firm’s Executive for the past six years.
Jamie said the timing was right to enact the firm’s succession plan.
“It has been an absolute privilege to lead this great firm for the past 18 years,” Jamie said.
“I’m very proud of what we have achieved. Our firm has grown significantly and our clients are among the most successful businesses and families in this State.
“William Buck is in a very strong position and it’s timely that I step down as Managing Director. Over the coming months Adrian and I will work closely to ensure a smooth transition of leadership and beyond in my ongoing role as Executive Chair.
“This has been a well-planned transition and I’m very confident that, in Adrian, our firm has the ideal leader to take it well into the future. With his positive outlook, exceptional business acumen and highly personable approach William Buck is in very safe hands.”
