Brian Kim spent five years running his own restaurant, before deciding to pursue a career in accounting. So he went from boss to beginner – and joined BellchambersBarrett in 2020 as a graduate.

It’s only natural that he felt nervous. After all, it was a new role. In a new firm. In a new industry.

But because of the support he received, he quickly settled and soared – and progressed to Senior Consultant in just two years.

Here, Brian shares his story with us.

An unexpected – but instant – connection

I crossed paths with BellchambersBarrett in an unexpected way.

During my last semester at uni, my lecturer asked if I was looking for a job after graduation. I said yes. And he connected me with one of his former students – who turned out to be Angus Brewer at BellchambersBarrett.

So I met Angus over a quick coffee, and a few days later, I found myself at an interview with Shane Bellchambers and Sart Spinks.

I knew I wanted to work with them after just a few minutes. I could feel their passion for growing the firm – and how much they cared for their team.

So in February 2020, I joined them as a graduate. And two years later, I was a Senior Consultant.

Supportive in every way

A few years ago, I was running my own restaurant at the University of Canberra. But after five years in the business, I decided to go back to my original plan: to pursue a career in accounting.

So when I joined BellchambersBarrett, it was both exciting and nerve-wracking.

I was starting afresh in a whole new industry. Going from a business owner to a graduate learning the ropes. I just wasn’t sure how things would go.

But I needn’t have worried. The people at my firm were nothing but supportive.

They sponsored my CA course, offered me opportunities to explore different types of work and clients – and most importantly, wanted to learn about and help me achieve my goals.

For example, when I told the partners that I’d like to focus more on external audits, they were all for it. I was offered a secondment with the Australian National Audit Office – which was such a great experience.

A firm that is for its people

At BellchambersBarrett, people really do come before work. It’s not just a platitude.

I’ve been here three years, and I’ve seen firsthand how the firm always takes care of its employees. The leaders constantly check to make sure we’re not under too much pressure. And they really emphasise work-life balance.

Because overtime work is not the norm here, I’ve been able to enjoy my hobbies and spend time with my loved ones. Plus, the firm is very flexible about annual leave and holiday plans.

I also love that we can share our opinions with each other freely. From interns to partners, we respect each other as equals. And we care for each other like friends and family.

From the day I started at BellchambersBarrett, I knew I made the right decision. And I look forward to my future with the firm.