Alliott NZ is celebrating two significant career milestones!
Directors Greg Millar and Vanessa Williams mark 40 years and 30 years respectively with the firm.
Together, Greg and Vanessa have shaped Alliott NZ into one of New Zealand’s leading accounting and business advisory firms while building trusted relationships with clients, colleagues and fellow members across Alliott Global Alliance.
Greg joined the firm in March 1986 and Vanessa followed in June 1996. Throughout their careers they have helped guide the practice through enormous change, from the manual accounting systems of the 1980s to today’s cloud-based, digitally connected and AI-enabled advisory environment.
Reflecting on four decades in the profession, Greg said:
“The pace of change has been extraordinary. But what has surprised me most is that the fundamentals haven’t changed. Clients still value honest advice, practical solutions and someone they can trust.”
Both Directors have played central roles in Alliott NZ’s evolution from a traditional accounting practice into a modern advisory firm recognised for combining technical excellence with practical commercial advice. Their leadership has supported the firm’s continued recognition as a New Zealand Top 30 Accounting Firm, alongside ongoing investment in cloud technology, digital transformation and, more recently, AI-enabled advisory solutions that enhance the client experience.
One of the defining aspects of their careers has been strengthening international relationships through Alliott Global Alliance.
In addition to serving clients across New Zealand, Vanessa has held a number of leadership roles within the Alliance, including Chair of the Asia Pacific Region, Deputy Chair, and continues to contribute as a member of the Alliott Global Asia Pacific Committee.
Commenting on her 30-year milestone, Vanessa said:
“I’m incredibly proud of the relationships we’ve built with our clients, our team and our international colleagues. Representing Asia Pacific within Alliott Global Alliance has been a privilege, but seeing our firm grow into one of New Zealand’s leading advisory practices while maintaining our culture has probably been our greatest achievement. Success is never about one person; it’s always about the people around you.”
Greg and Vanessa have consistently championed the importance of combining technical expertise with genuine client relationships, believing successful advisors listen carefully, understand their clients’ businesses and help them achieve long-term success.
While technology has transformed the accounting profession, both believe the future presents even greater opportunities.
“AI, automation and better access to data will remove even more routine work, allowing accountants to spend more time where we add the greatest value as advisors. We’re enjoying seeing our team embrace these opportunities while providing the personal service Alliott NZ has always been known for.”
As the accounting profession continues to evolve, the qualities that define exceptional advisors remain unchanged.
“Invest in your technical skills but never underestimate the importance of people skills. Stay curious, embrace new technology and keep learning because our profession will continue to evolve, but strong relationships will always be at the heart of great advice.”
The dual milestones also reflect Alliott NZ’s longstanding commitment to investing in its people and fostering enduring client relationships. Over the past four decades, Greg and Vanessa have helped thousands of businesses navigate change, support growth and seize new opportunities, while mentoring the next generation of advisors.
Their combined 70 years of service exemplify the values shared across Alliott Global Alliance: trusted relationships, technical excellence, collaboration and a commitment to helping clients succeed both locally and internationally.
About Alliott NZ Ltd
Alliott NZ is Alliott Global Alliance’s representative accounting and tax member in New Zealand.
Based in Auckland, Alliott NZ provides accounting, tax, business advisory and international business services to privately owned businesses, family enterprises, high-net-worth individuals and overseas companies establishing or expanding operations in New Zealand.
Since starting out as Thompson & Francis in the 1970s and then becoming Alliott Thompson Francis in the 1980s, Alliott NZ has grown to become a New Zealand Top 30 Accounting Firm, recognised for combining trusted advice with innovative technology, international expertise and long-term client relationships. Through membership in the Alliott Global Alliance, Alliott NZ connects clients with trusted professional advisors in more than 100 countries. Read more »