For nearly two decades, Tali has built her career at BDO by embracing challenges, backing herself, and leaning into authenticity. From Graduate to Partner, her story is one of growth, resilience, and finding purpose in every step.
Starting out at BDO
Tali joined BDO as a Graduate in 2006, already knowing she wanted to be an accountant.
“I studied it in school, loved it at uni, and it just made sense.”
Early on, she was part of a small business services team, working closely with senior leaders and peers who quickly became her mentors. Within her first year, she was trusted with complex client work, including major government projects.
“That was my first experience working on-site with a client. It was daunting, but incredible.”
Pivotal moments and tough decisions
As her career progressed, so did the challenges. After several years at BDO, now a senior manager, Tali took time to reflect on her career direction and whether exploring other opportunities might help her grow.
“I took a 12-month secondment to gain clarity. Three months in, COVID hit. I was working solo, without my BDO support network. That experience made me realise BDO was my true home.”
She returned after five months and quickly moved into the associate director pathway and later stepped into the partner pathway.
Why BDO?
For Tali, the answer is simple:
“It’s the people. BDO feels like a family. I’ve always felt I could be myself, loud, extroverted, not your ‘typical’ accountant, and that’s never been held against me. BDO values authenticity.”
She credits the firm’s culture of opportunity and support for helping her grow.
“I’ve worked with senior leaders since day one. The hierarchy never limited me. I’ve been part of amazing projects, and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
Lessons in leadership and balance
Tali didn’t become a Partner by sticking to the expected path. She asked questions, admitted when she didn’t know something, and learned from every experience.
“Grads have so many tools, so it’s important to stay involved, keep it simple, and never underestimate basic tasks. Some of my best learning came from unexpected roles.”
Balance, she says, is one of the most underestimated challenges for early-career professionals.
“You can’t have it all at once. It takes hard work at the junior level. You’ll juggle a lot, but it pays off. Take every opportunity as a stepping stone.”
Mentorship that makes a difference
One of the things that sets BDO apart is our strong culture of mentorship and support. From Graduate through to Partner, team members are surrounded by people who genuinely want to see them grow.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have been mentored by both the Partner and Manager I worked with when I first joined BDO. Their guidance and support have played a pivotal role in shaping my career. They listened, provided hands-on guidance and let me solve problems myself, which helped me grow.”
What success looks like now
Tali’s view of success has evolved over time.
“It used to mean getting everything perfect on my own. Now it’s about teamwork, growth, and leaving a legacy. Seeing others grow has become the most rewarding part of my journey. Success is more meaningful when it’s shared.”
Her biggest piece of advice?
“Don’t rush to the finish line – there isn’t one. Enjoy the journey. Every step, every fall, every recovery matters. Promotions and titles will come, but don’t miss the experiences along the way. The twists and turns make it interesting.”
Ready to start your journey?
At BDO, we’re committed to helping you grow your way, whether that’s exploring new ideas, backing yourself in challenging moments, or discovering a career that aligns with who you really are.