ESV was born in 1990 with Graham Einfeld (the E), Robert Symonds (the S) and Geoff Vince (the V). They were a formidable team with a powerful synergy and shared values.

Upon reaching our big 3-0 milestone we took the opportunity to sit down with each founding partner for a chat.

Graham Einfeld

What is the one-word which describes what ESV stands for?

“Integrity”

This means “adherence to moral and ethical principles: soundness of moral character.” I believe that everything ESV did and does is bound by these principles.

Memorable Moment?

I do not have one memorable moment from my time at ESV. There are a number of things that are memorable to this day. I suppose the most significant moment was …

When I look back at where we are now compared to where we were, is quite amazing. Each year the Top 100 Accounting firms in Australia is published by AFR (it was previously done by BRW). In 1999 ESV was ranked 70^th but more recently the firm has improved its position to 44^th. This is quite an achievement for a firm that has only one office. It demonstrates the high esteem in which the firm is held by its clients and professional associates.

Your advice to someone starting their career in this wonderful industry?

ESV is bound by principles of “integrity”. I think anyone wishing to become a trusted advisor should adopt these principles when dealing with their clients. It is also critically important to take a proactive approach to providing advice rather than reactive, to ensure clients are getting the most valuable and timely advice.

 

Robert Symonds

Your greatest achievement?

The creation of ESV and the tight synergy we created for our Partner group. We were lucky, as a new firm we grew quickly but we had the reputation and expertise. We were able to attract clients by providing exceptional service and value – some of these original clients are still clients of ESV today.

What made ESV different?

Our attitude was to always treat our staff with the utmost respect – they are an important part of the team. We built an ESV “esprit de corp’ – a feeling of pride and mutual loyalty shared by the members of a group.

Your hopes for the future?

• Keep an eye on growth – even in a global pandemic.
• Renew and update every team members’ expertise.
• Give back and make a difference to your clients every single day.

 

Geoff Vince

Why was 1990 the right time to create ESV?

I’ll be honest – it was pretty simple for me; I wanted to provide for my family! Now looking back – the planets just aligned at that time. It was the right people, the right place and the right opportunity. Graham, Robert and myself had the same principles; we wanted to create a boutique practice that was competitive with the big boys but a firm who always knew our clients name when they called or visit.

What did you enjoy most?

Dealing with clients and watching them and their families grow. If they succeeded, we could share in that success.

What are you most proud of?

I’ve left the practice in great hands. We always had an eye on succession planning and created a rolling ten-year strategy. Part of that strategic thinking was to bring in progressive partners that would take the firm to the next level. I’m confident the current partner group will.

 

These founding partners provided a wonderful foundation for ESV to grow and thrive. Thank you for your leadership and vision – we aim to continually make you proud.