Women leaders in the Praxity Alliance
Get to know top professionals from across the world
Sam Morris
Tax Partner, SW Australia
How long have you been with the firm?
I have been a Tax Partner with SW for just over 11 years and took up my role as National Head of Tax 2 ½ years ago.
What was your experience before taking this role?
I started my tax career in the UK at Big 4 firms before moving to Australia in 2007.
Can you give me an idea of what the next year holds for the firm?
Our recent brand campaign embraced how we have flown a little under the radar in the past – ‘Australia’s best kept accounting secret’! We have an ambitious growth agenda, expanding our national footprint and focusing on broadening and deepening our capability in specialist areas. We have bold plans and a clear focus on investing in our people and delivering on our digital strategy whilst maintaining the utmost client care and service.
Are there any trends in your region that are material to your work?
Increased regulation and scrutiny are key trends in Australia. We continue to leverage our highly successful technology solutions to help our clients streamline their processes, ease their compliance burden and ensure good governance is achieved. Another major trend in the digital space is of course the use of AI and getting the balance right. We are laser-focused on the development of our people as future leaders as we continue to embrace a more flexible and mobile workforce.
Two of our firm values are #embracetheride and #loveyourwork – I am confident the coming year will bring plenty of both!
Helen Clayton
Managing Partner, PM+M, UK
How long have you been with the firm?
Just over 9 years
What was your experience before taking this role?
I trained in a smaller firm where I qualified as a Chartered Accountant and started to specialise in advising law firms. I then spent 10 years at Deloitte, working up to director level, where I was responsible for a team of 30 and had a mixed client portfolio of law firms and privately owned businesses, including some major UK retailers. It’s here that I found my passion for people development.
Can you give me an idea of what the next year holds for the firm?
Continuing our focus on people – supporting and coaching and mentoring people to be able to be their best, bring their best and therefore provide continued great client service. Advisory will undoubtedly be a key growth area, and we are investing heavily in tech to be able to broaden skills and experience. We’ve done well with recent recruitment challenges in the marketplace and are about to welcome 10 new apprentices to our firm. Alongside other newly created roles in the last 6 months, we continue to work hard on ensuring we have the right levels of skills and experience to keep moving our firm forward. Alongside that, ensuring we enjoy what we all do, why and who with will be key to ensure we can continue to achieve great things as individuals, together and with our clients.
Are there any trends in your region that are material to your work?
Consolidation of small and medium accountancy firms and financial planning businesses is providing us with a clear USP of being privately owned, maintaining our independence and being masters of our own destiny. This is proving successful with referrals from existing clients as their friends and business associates are no longer receiving the same level of service they once had, and their key relationship holder is leaving their long-term accountancy firm. We are also seeing this with recruitment and are meeting some great people who have suddenly found that their career path now has a ceiling on it that was lower than it had been previously. All great opportunities.
Mei Nie Tan
Accounting & Outsourcing Partner, Moores Rowland, Indonesia
How long have you been with the firm?
It’s been 24 great years with Moores Rowland Indonesia since I joined in August of 2000. In that time, the firm has grown to include the non-profit Foundation for International Human Rights Reporting Standards (FIHRRST) which developed the Business and Human Rights International Standard for Certification (BHRISC 2011) and is noted for its work with other international NGOs, the Indonesia government, and corporate human rights due diligence and sustainability training. Apropos of the focus on women leaders for this issue of HUB, half of our equity partners are women and a majority of our staff, including at leadership levels, are women. Diversity is an important value at Moores Rowland Indonesia and our staff fully reflect the communities in which we live, with gender, religious, disability, and other minority representation.
What was your experience before taking this role?
Before joining Moores Rowland, I was with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in the tax services department. I specialised in individual taxes for expatriates and corporate tax compliance for companies in the shipping, trading and manufacturing industries. My expertise also includes reviewing and assessing the backlog tax issues of companies, making appropriate recommendations and advising on tax savings and taxation impact.
Can you give me an idea of what the next year holds for the firm?
Indonesia is one of the fastest growing economies in the world and the dominant economy in Southeast Asia, with a stable political climate, an abundance of natural resources, reasonable labour costs and a young, talented workforce which translates to great opportunities and a positive business forecast for us. A new president is coming in and with him will be a new cabinet and other influential officials, many of whom we have worked with in the past.
We also have the knowledge and relationships to support interested global investors in the development of the EV and automotive sector and its supply chain leaders in general. With its extensive nickel resources, Indonesia is a major supplier of the metal for the EV industry, in which our clients dominate. This sets us up for when Indonesia becomes an even more strategic player in automotive production and holds a controlling market share.
In addition, the Indonesia government aims to achieve economic growth between 5.1 percent and 5.5 percent in 2025, focusing on sustainable inflation. Digitalisation and climate change initiatives through green economy and energy policies put us ahead or at least at par with our competitors, as we have the professional services to support those initiatives.
Corporate sustainability and ESG are becoming major concerns due to increasing public awareness, especially the need to be compliant with government regulations. Moores Rowland will play an even more active role in helping clients navigate these issues, by providing insights and recommendations on sustainability strategies to enhance their social and environmental impact, ESG reporting, and compliance with international sustainability standards.
We are taking the initiative in transforming our business operations with the help of AI and IT digitalisation, which is reshaping our business approach and bringing efficiencies, agility and customer-centric ideas. All of which makes for an exciting journey in the years ahead.
One of my favourite quotes by Sun Tzu is, “Opportunities multiply as they are seized.” Indonesia is a land of opportunities!
Are there any trends in your region that are material to your work?
Because of its location, geopolitical stance as a bridge between major powers, and having the largest economy in Southeast Asia, there is a growing trend In Indonesia toward regional and cross border business activity. Multinational companies are looking for intelligent solutions from firms such as ours, with professional services and connections like Praxity in other countries to guide them through the complexities of regional integration, expand into new markets and optimise their operations. This sometimes includes helping companies understand the cultural and regulatory differences across the region and develop strategies to address these challenges. And as I mentioned, our connections in the automotive industry, which is trending up, put us in good stead in providing services to that sector.
Helen Jeaneth Urbina
Co-founder – HR, Megaprocesos, Guatemala
How long have you been with the firm?
I have been with Megaprocesos for 19 years, a time in which I’ve had the opportunity to discover myself personally and as a professional. Throughout my career with the firm, I’ve developed diverse skills that have allowed me to reach the position I hold today. During this time, I have acquired a deep understanding of Megaprocesos, empowering different generations along the way.
What was your experience before taking this role?
Before joining Megaprocesos, I gained valuable experience in different areas that prepared me to take on management roles. My passion for Human Resources has always guided me.
I began my career in the 90s working in companies in Guatemala, specialising in the textile, security and restaurant industries. Among them, CHO & CHIN, LA VEREDA SA, BURGERS SHOP, and Alarmas y Blindajes Cosmos S.A, stand out, where I played roles as a management assistant, HR assistant, and in planning, organisation and personnel administration.
I am a co-founder of Megaprocesos, along with my husband Mardoqueo Vásquez. We decided to venture out and make what at the time was a dream come true. I started at the firm as an assistant manager and persevered. Over time, I was promoted to Administrative Management, and I currently direct Human Resources Management at the regional level.
Can you give me an idea of what the next year holds for the firm?
I anticipate significant growth for Megaprocesos at a regional level, exploring new business niches. Thanks to the trust of our current clients, we have the opportunity to expand, allowing us to learn and evolve in our area of expertise continually.
Are there trends in your region that are relevant to your work?
In the realm of Human Resources, we are witnessing significant global changes, with Mexico and Chile at the forefront of innovative labour reforms, Additionally, we are seeing a strong emphasis on inclusion, technological advancement, AI integration, labour flexibility, reduced working hours, hybrid models and remote work.
The challenge for Human Resources is to seamlessly integrate AI while maintaining a steadfast focus on analysis, personalisation and human contact, all while driving innovation forward. We aim to proactively stay ahead of the curve, ensuring the utmost benefit for our customers and employees.
Zully Veliz
Regional Manager, Megaprocesos, Guatemala
How long have you been with the firm?
I have been with Megaprocesos for 14 years, during which I have learned how a company can expand over time and overcome global challenges.
When I joined Megaprocesos, it was only operating in Guatemala. I was also there when Megaprocesos became part of the Praxity Alliance. Now, the firm has regional operations and a strong market position. My journey of witnessing the company's growth has been very rewarding.
What was your experience before taking this role?
I began my career as an Accounting Assistant at the company Cidea, dedicated to the sale of vehicles, where I worked for 4 years. i subsequently joined Franklin Covey as an Accounting and Logistics Assistant, where I developed soft skills and learned about the “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” and leadership.
At TIGO, I worked as a Fixed Assets Assistant for a year and then moved to the Billing and Internal Control area, where SOX control was a key part of my learning.
At Megaprocesses, I started as an Administrative Manager. I was versatile enough to occupy roles such as Audit Manager, Outsourcing Manager, Customer Service Manager, and currently, Regional Manager. During my time at Megaprocesos, I’ve acquired a deep knowledge of the company, connecting with the team and ensuring efficient delivery of projects.
Currently, in my new role, I have faced challenges that have strengthened my knowledge. I will always remember with respect my mentor, Mardoqueo Vásquez, who supported me and made me feel at home during my time at the company.
Can you give me an idea of what the next year holds for the firm?
After these two years dedicated to organising, restructuring, and strengthening the pillars of Megaprocesses, I envision next year as a period of harvest and growth. It will be a time of learning, where new generations and professionals will join us, enriching our clients' experience and reinforcing our mission in the region.
Are there any trends in your region that are material to your work?
It is important to highlight the technological advance in tax administration, which is accelerating processes across countries. This will bring with it new controls and greater surveillance, which requires Megaprocesos to be proactive in the search for solutions and improvements to facilitate this path for our clients.
In the medium term, we see a trend towards opening borders for investment and trade, with the region acting as a bloc and the resurgence of countries such as Nicaragua, El Salvador, and the Dominican Republic, which will generate new business opportunities.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly impacted education and business. For companies like Megaprocesos, this advance represents a challenge, since it drives us to be more creative and innovative in the presentation of our services, in attracting clients, and in generating value in the market.
Finally, breaking gender paradigms has allowed many women to stand out in our region. At Megaprocesos, female leadership is a reality, and we see with honour how new generations of women are preparing to occupy important roles throughout the industry.
Montserrat Colin
Tax Partner, JA Del Río, Mexico
How long have you been with the firm?
I have been with the firm for nearly four years. During the past three years, I have had the privilege of co-developing our International Tax and Transaction Tax practice alongside other partners.
What was your experience before taking this role?
Prior to joining this firm, I spent 14 years working at two Big Four firms in Mexico City, where I specialized in Corporate Tax, International Tax, and Transaction Tax (M&A).
Can you give me an idea of what the next year holds for the firm?
Our goal for the coming year is to solidify JA del Rio as the leading multidisciplinary, 100% Mexican firm across Latin America. Over the past four years, we have experienced more than 300% growth, allowing us to meet all of our clients' needs in Tax, Financial Advisory, Auditing, Foreign Trade, Transfer Pricing, Social Security, Tax Consulting, International Tax, and Transaction services. Our primary focus remains delivering exceptional service to our clients while enjoying the work we do.
Are there any trends in your region that are material to your work?
Absolutely. Nearshoring in Mexico represents a significant opportunity for our work, as we are witnessing increased investments and growth in operations related to foreign-invested manufacturing companies. This makes proper tax and foreign trade structuring crucial. The implementation of the MLI in Mexico also heightens the need for careful attention to cross-border operations and the new rules that companies must comply with. In terms of Transfer Pricing, the inapplicability of APAs for maquiladoras require immediate action to ensure accurate safe-harbor calculations. Lastly, we must stay vigilant regarding Tax Controversy issues due to recent changes in Mexico's judicial system.
Giovanna Bernal
Founder, Prime Solutions Tax & Legal
How long have you been with the firm?
I founded Prime Solutions Tax & Legal just over seven years ago. It’s been an incredible journey growing alongside our clients and helping them navigate both local and international tax, accounting and legal landscapes.
What was your experience before taking this role?
Before starting Prime Solutions, I had a solid background in law and taxes, with more than 15 years of experience advising clients on complex tax and legal matters. It was always my goal to create a firm that blends practical legal advice with strategic tax and outsourcing solutions.
Can you give me an idea of what the next year holds for the firm?
We're expanding our services to support more international clients, especially with Panama’s business-friendly environment attracting foreign investors. We will be offering also audit services and transfer pricing services.
Are there any trends in your region that are material to your work?
In Panama, we’re seeing a growing demand for tax transparency and compliance, especially as international regulations tighten. This trend is shaping a lot of the work we do, as businesses seek to stay ahead of these changes while still maximising their financial and legal standing. For instance, there is a deadline for complying with accounting records for holding companies and companies that carry on economic activities out of Panama. We also foresee new tax reforms with the new government that initiated in July of 2024.