Testimonials

I've worked with Alan across a couple of organisations in different roles. I've always found him to be knowledgeable, well-connected, and good fun to be around. My colleagues and I have felt comfortable in placing him in front of senior executives, and he has added tremendous value through his proactive approach and significant industry experience, in order to assist organisations. I'm very pleased to recommend Alan.

Peter Whittington
Partnership Executive, Perpetual

When it comes to knowledge of software & application to professional accounting practices, Alan knows more about what works, what doesn't, how it works, how much it costs and its applications to the business than anyone I have met. This combined with his contacts within the industry and his personal approach make him a very valuable resource to our practice. Rarely have I met an IT "geek" with a combination of ability & personality but Alan is such a person.

Norman Same
Director KNP Solutions

I encountered Alan as we were both forging entrepreneurial ventures in the world of tax technology, disruption and accounting practise transformation. Alan has created a unique value proposition in the market place with his ability to bring an independent, and highly nuanced, researched and articulate perspective around the role of technology in driving industry change. A man of impeccable integrity and authenticity I have the utmost respect for his view and often seek his thoughts on industry shaping themes, global tax initiatives and in fact life in general.

Jon Johnson
Vice President Global Client Services, GCRS

Alan has a great understanding of the tax technology market and is able to guide clients through the often difficult process of selecting the appropriate technology solution for their needs. All too often, Corporates are looking for "magic pill" type solutions that do everything, are easy to use, and cheap to purchase/implement. Equally, software vendors have a tendency to "over-sell" their products. This can create a fertile ground for unfulfilled expectation and unhappy customers. Alan is an expert at getting to the heart of what a customer really needs and what a solution can really offer. His services are the essential first stop in any vendor selection process and I recommend him enthusiastically to my Linkedin network.

Stephen Alleway
Transfer Pricing Director Questro International

Alan really knows what he is talking about as a Buyers Advocate for Accounting Due Date and WorkFlow Management Software all over the world. This is very exceptional. Please keep on doing the good work.

Jan Steuertewagen
Partner at BEBOTAX

I'd highly recommend Alan to any accountants looking to ensure their firm has the technology to scale and thrive for years to come. Alan reviewed our tech stack and helped us identify several areas requiring attention. He is an independent advisor that will help your firm get the best fit solution.

Matt Beattie
General Manager of Quantum Advisory

Alan’s expertise are second only to his ability to combine humour with supporting accounting technology change. His ability to match the needs of a firm with the technology landscape creates long-term value for the accounting eco-system. Alan is incredibly well connected and his network and the years he has under his belt can save days for busy firm leaders looking to solve business problems without reinventing the wheel. Working with Alan provides value and is always a pleasure.

Mark Edmondson
CEO Inflo Software

Alan's knowledge of platform solutions for Accountants is second to none; his network and understanding of what it takes to be effective in the 'digital space' is sound reason why accountants across Australasia should be using his services. The accounting industry is hard enough without having to keep track of fast moving technology! I encourage any practicing accountant to 'think like a business owner' rather than a mere 'technician'. Get Alan on board and then get on with being more effective in delivering services to your clients.

Mike Barnes
Founder of Advisor-e.com

Alan's knowledge and contacts in the market make him a valuable part of any strategic discussion in a professional services firm when it comes to technology. We recently built a 5 year plan for our Enterprise department and Alan did a superb job of bringing the market view, current technology offerings, and the future landscape to the table. The workshops he ran meant that we were able to align our thinking and bring together a coherent view that all stakeholders agreed upon. For a solid review of your current technology state, and a clear guide on where to go next, I highly recommend Alan as part of your technology strategy planning team.

Fleur Telford
Technology & Growth team at KPMG Australia

Alan has been an invaluable resource to me in establishing Virtue Private Advisory. His deep experience in the profession, and now working independently as a software consultant, allows him to provide a thorough and intelligent digest of the systems available to modern accounting practice. Without hesitation I recommend his services to new practitioners and those with established systems alike. Appreciate the insight from your LinkedIn feed as well.

Leanne Spiteri
Founder of Virtue Private Advisory

I am pleased to provide a recommendation for Alan. I was a client of Alan’s when he worked for one of his software companies. Alan is the reason I ended up changing software providers, and have stayed with them for over 7 years. If you want someone who is great at sales, Alan is the person. From my own experience Alan approached me regarding his software at a time when I was looking at switching. I watched the demo, so I learnt, but again wasn’t ready to move. Alan kept in touch throughout the next 3 years, he did it without being an annoying sales person, it was always a subtle touch, sharing of new information, and a pleasant chat. Put it this way, I always returned his calls when he followed up. It came to a point with my other software that we had some problems. I naturally reached out to Alan, and the rest is history as they say. If Alan had not followed up ‘nicely’ throughout those 3 years I would not have thought of contacting Thomson Reuters when I had problems with my other provider. Thanks Alan!

Shannon Smit
Asia Transfer Pricing Leader of the Year : Xero Accounting

I have known Alan a considerable time both in his current role and in previous employment. What I really like about Alan is the way he makes complex issues simple, the way he engages with you and actively listens to what you are saying, your needs and requirements. His frankness (mixed in with a little humour) about what he considers to be the best solution for you (this may not necessarily coincide with his best interests).  If you are considering changes in your IT solutions I strongly recommend that you discuss these with Alan prior to embarking on what may be an expensive journey which may not deliver the outcomes you desire for your business. The fact that he is an independent consultant also means that he is not selling a particular product he is selling impartial advice that is in my experience unique in the market.  In summary Alan is reliable, professional, knowledgeable and can add significant value to your business. I would recommend that you discuss your IT needs with him at any point in the process be it pre-purchase or implementation issues. His independent and forthright opinion may save a considerable amount of time, money and angst.

Anthony Hayley
Director Moore Stephens Australia

With technology advancing and the use of cloud being more prominent, we knew we had to make a decision to embark on the cloud journey. But where do we start? We approached Alan FitzGerald to provide our firm with a complete software system review. Alan’s meticulous procedure in meeting the directors to obtain their overview and requirements followed by his investigations into the operation of the firm were paramount in reaching our goals. Upon identifying the current market using his network contacts and clients, he contacted all suitable vendors recommended to provide a fully extensive report and organised product demonstrations thereafter. Alan’s assistance was invaluable being knowledgeable, clear and informative with the information provided.

Mei Wu
Director KNP Solutions

I have had the privilege of knowing Alan for many years, initially as a candidate, then a client and more recently in a coaching capacity. Alan is a dynamic, astute, switched on professional. I love his matter of fact, authentic, intelligent and common sense approach to everything that he undertakes. You can't help but like Alan, he enjoys a reputation of excellence because he REALLY goes above and beyond to exceed clients expectations. He's also quite adept at connecting people and services through his knowledge and strong network. I wish you continuing success Alan, you deserve it; I can't recommend you highly enough!

Josephine Mangano
Recruitment Specialist, Salazar Phoenix