James Ainsworth returns to BDO in Sydney with CFO experience

Three years after leaving the firm, 14-year company member James Ainsworth has returned to BDO to become a partner in its Sydney office. 

James Ainsworth previously worked for the global accounting and consulting firm in the UK for two years, before relocating back to Australia early 2006 – he graduated in Australia – to join the firm’s Sydney office (its legal predecessor). Fast forward fifteen years, and he is now back where it all started.

“James started his career with BDO as a cadet and we are pleased he has come back to the fold after running his own advisory practice,” said BDO Sydney Office Managing Partner, Grant Saxon. “His return is recognition of BDO’s strong position in the mid-market, our unique culture, our approach to client service and the quality of our work.” 

During his twelve years at the firm, Ainsworth climbed the ranks to Senior Manager, specialising in accounting and finance transformation services. He then went on to launch his own consultancy: Ainsworth Advisory, assisting small and medium companies with professionalising and outsourcing their finance functions. 

“James’ experience running his own business, in particular providing cloud-based management reporting solutions and outsourced CFO services to SMEs, will be invaluable to BDO’s growing client base. Our clients and colleagues are delighted to have him back at BDO,” said Saxon.

With his 33-years, Ainsworth becomes one of BDO’s youngest partners in the country  – nationally, the firm has just over 200 partners, a milestone it reached last year following better than expected performance during corona year 2020. Despite this, Ainsworth has executive experience under his belt, having served as CFO at Superestate, a superannuation fund with a focus on the residential property market. 

Last week, Superestate was acquired by Raiz. Reflecting on his time at the fund, Ainsworth said: “It has been my absolute pleasure to work with Grant [the CEO, Grant Brits] and the entire team at Superestate from pre-commencement right through to this acquisition and am very much looking forward to seeing the further success of the business as part of Raiz.” 

Ainsworth also served as CFO for deferit, a fast-growing fintech start-up that helps Aussies defer the payment of their bills in a user-friendly manner.

“This expertise, combined with his extensive accounting, outsourcing, cloud technology and taxation skills will help our clients to adapt to the massive challenges that lie ahead,” concluded Saxon.