Chris Richardson

Executive summary

Chris is a Partner in Business Services with BDO in Melbourne. He works closely with private groups, family businesses and founders to manage tax, structuring and financial growth. Chris simplifies complex financial issues, and turns them into clear, actionable strategies, delivering tailored solutions that improve performance and strengthen governance. He works closely with clients across sectors including technology, healthcare, professional services, FMCG, online retail and renewable energy.

With 16 years of experience, he advises on tax planning, structuring, compliance, Virtual CFO (VCFO) services, succession planning, and acquisitions. Chris has guided mid-market businesses and family groups through growth, restructures and exits, and supports inbound international groups establishing operations in Australia.

Chris takes a relationship-driven approach and works collaboratively with clients to provide seamless end-to-end solutions. Acting as a trusted adviser, he helps clients clarify their goals and make informed decisions that deliver lasting results.

Expertise

• Tax planning and structuring for private groups and family businesses 
• Accounting and tax compliance 
• CFO and finance function transformation, including forecasting, budgeting, and KPI dashboards 
• Succession planning and advisory for founders and families 
• Multi-entity reporting for complex family groups
• Assists inbound international groups as they establish operations in Australia
• Employee share schemes for start-ups
• Cashflow improvement and performance analysis 

Experience

• Served as partner for a large family office, managing all advisory, tax compliance services, and shaping long-term wealth strategies.
• Established full Virtual CFO (VCFO) support for an online gaming platform, strengthening forecasting, reporting, and financial controls.
• Assisted a fintech company with a restructure and capital raise, positioning the business for scale and attracting new investor funding.
• Guided a multinational renewable energy business through a complex restructure, managing ongoing tax, accounting, and advisory responsibilities.
• Conducted buy-side due diligence for the acquisition of a medical practice, identifying financial, tax, and operational risks.
• Led a 40-person team through the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining service levels and helping clients access government stimulus packages during a period of uncertainty.

Qualifications and affiliations

• Chartered Accountant and Member, CA ANZ
• Registered Tax Agent
• Public Practice Certificate, CA ANZ
• Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Finance)