Person of Interest
In this interview we are delighted to profile Invercargill NZ chartered firm Malloch McClean. We asked Partner John Schol to tell us about the firm and what it is like to live in the southernmost part of NZ.
FS: Malloch McClean can trace its roots back about 80 years. What is the history of the firm and how has it evolved into the large progressive firm that it is today?
JS: 82 years is a long time to be around isn’t it – when you are described by some of your more senior clients as one of the success stories of the post war years you know you have stood the test of time! Malloch McClean was established in 1933 by Donald Malloch and Jack McClean. Their hard work and professionalism created a family orientated firm that has endured and progressed to being one of the biggest and most experienced Chartered Accountancy and Business advisory firms in the Southland and Central Otago regions. The core purpose and the foundation on which Malloch McClean was established is to help our clients build enduring wealth through successful businesses. A great example of this is the shift in thinking many of our rural clients in how they manage and govern their business. They have recognized that farming is no longer just about pulling their boots on. So we have had to change and move with the times and are committed to challenging them to succeed in their business and personal aspirations. We now look to support their growth through the provision of learning and development opportunities along with sound business advice helps them secure their families future.
FS: Invercargill is pretty much surrounded by dairy farms and ocean. What types of businesses does the firm service? Does it have any specialties?
JS: The geographical statement you make in your question is certainly true. We know the importance of the primary producers, companies and families in our region that help make our community strong. We have a big team and consider ourselves general practitioners that provide services to a varied mix of clients that include Dairy farming, Sheep and Beef farming, the various businesses that support the rural sector as well as many Invercargill and Queenstown business clients.
FS: Invercargill is one of the southernmost cities in the world and suffers from extremes in weather. How would you describe the people and their lifestyle?
JS: The tag given to Southland weather is probably a bit unfair. The upside of that is that most people that visit are pleasantly surprised when they arrive. Southlanders are known for their strength of character, sense of fun and love of the environment. The natural beauty of Southland provides a playground for locals and visitors alike. Within close proximity we have the sea, mountains, Queenstown and Fiordland National park which give us ample choice for our activity preferences, whether they are adventurous or just relaxing with a fabulous coffee.
FS: In 2005 Invercargill found itself launched onto the world stage when the movie “The World’s Fastest Indian” starring Sir Anthony Hopkins was released. The story is about local motorcycle speed legend Burt Munro. What impact did the movie have on Invercargill?
JS: The movie certainly put Invercargill on the map – not many City’s in New Zealand can say they have had the premier of a film that size in their own backyard. In November each year, Invercargill is inundated for a week with motorcycle enthusiasts from throughout New Zealand and overseas to celebrate Burt’s life as depicted in the movie. This attracts some big name riders for events like the street and beach racing. A lot of effort from the local community goes into organising the annual event and our local hardware store is a focal point as it has set up a significant motorcycle museum in recognition of Burt.
FS: What is the partner’s vision for the firm?
JS: Malloch McClean’s core purpose is to help clients build enduring wealth through the success of their businesses. Our vision is to provide a platform to challenge them to succeed in this endeavour with an emphasis of support, education and timely financial advisory services. By doing this we live into our core values of:
Pro-active – constantly innovate to exceed expectations
Empathy – Understand and respect the individual
Family First – Making time for what’s important
Fun – Loving what we do
Congruency – We practice what we teach
These define, guide and direct us and are the cornerstone of the way we work. We believe working together with these five core values will result in great outcomes and stronger relationships for all our stakeholders.
