International Women’s Day and chartered accounting in the modern era

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Money Metrics are New Zealand’s only chartered accounting franchise and proud to be #breakingthebias on equality. 

 

Yvonne Handley, Karyn Baker, Cassandra Park and Kelly Lelieveld together with James Amos. | Money Metrics

 

From left: Yvonne Handley, Karyn Baker, Cassandra Park and Kelly Lelieveld together with James Amos.

 

Money Metrics is on a mission. Our chartered accountants want to improve the financial health and wellbeing of New Zealand’s vibrant SME community. Embracing our unique roaming workplace culture is how we plan on doing it. At the same time, our team are fostering gender equity. International Women’s Day is a chance to recognise changes we are creating in an industry previously dominated by males.

 

Once a week, our directors Cassandra Park and Karyn Baker meet virtually with the growing franchise team. There are two noticeable differences compared to many others in the trade. Firstly, as franchisees we are equipped with first-hand experience of owning and running a business. Secondly, many of our chartered accountants are female.

 

These are not the only differences our innovative business model is creating.

 

 

Model opens up fourth career path

 

Previously, New Zealand chartered accountants were limited to only three options to progress careers. This included:

 

 

  1. Entering into an expensive partner buy-in option,
  2. Setting up a sole practitioner practice, or
  3. Reaching a senior level in a firm, where careers often stagnate.

 

A decade on from starting the original Money Metrics practice in Papamoa, our Director Cassandra has been busy adapting to change. Modern tech was once threatening to make number crunchers obsolete. Today CAs are becoming valuable partners in business growth and success. New technology has enabled more constructive and meaningful results for clients.

 

 

Business increasingly linked to personal goals

 

“People live in a modern day world where ‘workations’ and ‘bleisure’ are a thing. Achieving our personal goals are increasingly linked to our business goals. We take this into account at Money Metrics. Our affordable tailored services help improve business performance and success. In turn, we can empower people to create balance beyond the books.” Cassandra Park.

Together with being community focused, it is a culture that Cassandra and Karyn encourage for the team. Franchise owners Yvonne Handley (Bethlehem and Western Bay) and Kelly Lelieveld (Rotorua and Tauranga West) are attracted to the many career and lifestyle benefits of the franchise.

 

Both women have extensive financial backgrounds and expertise. Prior to Money Metrics, very few career opportunities offered the same flexibility, collaboration and support. Owning a franchise has enabled them to spend more time with their families and juggle all of the demands of being a modern day working mum.

 

Businesses who would like to learn more about improving their financial health and wellbeing can click here for a free one-hour consultation.

 

This blog was previously published in advertorial form in the The Bay of Plenty Business News. Feb 2022.

 

 

FAQ

 

What challenges do many women in business face in NZ?
Work–life balance, confidence with financial decisions, and access to support networks are common challenges, but all can be overcome with the right tools.

 

How can I build more confidence in my financial skills?
Start small: learn your key numbers, review monthly reports, and ask questions whenever something isn’t clear.

 

Are there services that support women-led businesses?
Yes, advisory services like those at Money Metrics provide clear guidance and practical strategies tailored to your goals.

 

What’s one quick change I can make today to feel more in control of my business?
Review last year’s performance and set one short-term financial goal, even small steps can create momentum.

 

How can female business owners stay connected and supported?
Join local networks, attend business events, and surround yourself with advisors who understand the New Zealand business landscape.

 

 

Supporting Women in Business, Every Day

 

Wherever you are in your business journey, we’re here to champion your success. Money Metrics supports women in business with guidance that truly makes a difference.

 

Want to know more, read…

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