Q&A with Thomas
He’s abysmal on social media (self-confessed). But he has climbed Base Camp and helped set up Aussie Angels so we’d say that’s more than okay!
We hope you enjoy getting to know our new CFO for Startups, Thomas Worden.
1. Why did you join our team?
I’ve joined to help expand the CFO service that we provide to startups and fast-growing businesses. It’s a high impact service and my expertise should help continue the great growth we’ve seen so far.
2. Tell us a bit about yourself
I grew up about an hour out of Vancouver, Canada, where the suburbs meet farmland. My partner and I moved to Sydney almost eight years ago, facilitated by my job with PwC.
I love a good morning workout to start the day. I try to hit the beach or a hiking trail as much as possible. I love travelling but like everyone else I haven’t had much chance to do that lately. I also love barbecuing, playing soccer, reading historical books, playing a few games on the Switch and generally spending time with friends and family.
3. What’s your professional background?
I’m a chartered accountant by trade. After five years in audit and assurance with PwC in Canada and Australia, I spread my wings to the private sector.
I spent a good chunk of time with Healius Limited, one of Australia’s largest diagnostic and healthcare providers. I worked in various roles, including financial controller of the medical centre business where I was integral in its sale to BGH Capital and setting up our new ERP. After that, I worked with Carbar as it scaled and helped bring its finance function up to speed for audits and reporting.
In amongst it all, I’ve been very involved with startups. I co-founded 361 Angel Club, a social event for entrepreneurs and investors, and helped Aussie Angels launch.
4. What’s your personal elevator pitch?
I’m a highly capable finance professional who has worked as a public accountant, in private companies and with startups. I’ve helped companies set up finance functions from scratch, sell and acquire businesses and generally better understand their businesses through the lens of finance.
5. What gets you out of bed in the morning?
I love waking up knowing that each day will bring a different challenge. Not all will be won or even completed in the day, but it’s always good to know something is coming down the pipeline.
6. What’s the hardest but most rewarding thing you’ve ever done?
Personally – Hiking to Mount Everest Base Camp. It was an 18-day experience that involved 5-10 hours of hiking each day with an elevation change of more than 3000m and a 50% decrease in oxygen levels (editor’s note: spot the numbers guy!).
It was very challenging but absolutely rewarding to see it so close up and experience the local culture and lifestyle.
Professionally – Helping my partner set up Aussie Angels. I handled the company set up, including all the documents, trust structures and capital raising documents. It’s great to see where it’s at now!
7. How do people get in touch with you?
Admittedly, I am abysmal on social media. I am active on LinkedIn but probably not as much as I should be! The best ways to reach me are via email or by booking time here.
Anyone can get in touch with me to chat about what’s going on in the investment market or for help with questions about startups and finance. I’m always keen to chat about travelling and history, too.
