March 4, 2010Moore Stephens Queensland today announced the acquisition of
PricewaterhouseCoopers’ (PwC) Townsville practice – effective April 15 – making it the pre-eminent accounting, audit and business advisory firm in regional Queensland.
Managing Director Ken Pickard says the acquisition is an integral part of the firm’s growth strategy.
“This acquisition gives us the critical mass to drive accelerated growth of our audit and wealth management divisions in particular,” Pickard says.
“The acquisition brings significant additional Small and Medium Enterprise expertise. This expansion of knowledge, experience and clients will result in enhanced opportunities for our clients and staff in this region and across Queensland,” he says.
There is already an existing cultural fit between the former PwC Townsville practice and Moore Stephens Queensland, according to Pickard.
“We share an absolute commitment to successful commercial outcomes for clients and providing the best possible opportunities for our people and look forward to welcoming the PwC Townsville staff to Moore Stephens’ North Queensland team,” he says.
PricewaterhouseCoopers CEO Mark Johnson agrees Moore Stephens Queensland is the preeminent practice in regional Queensland and confirms the “cultural fit”.
“We have decided to transfer our Townsville practice to Moore Stephens Queensland as our firm’s industry focus has evolved and changed nationally,” Johnson says.
“Our Townsville office has been an important and profitable part of the Australian firm's growth and history, and we thank our former staff and partners for their dedication and commitment to the firm,” he says.
Moore Stephens Queensland is the seventh largest firm in the state.
Following the acquisition, the firm in Townsville will have five principals and 81 staff.
