BDO Australia Promotes CFO Cara Wennerbom to COO

Seasoned Finance Chief Takes on Expanded Role to Drive Operational Excellence and Growth

BDO Australia announced this week the promotion of Cara Wennerbom, previously serving as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), to the position of Chief Operating Officer (COO).

In her new role, Ms. Wennerbom will oversee multiple change management initiatives and lead BDO’s operational strategy and implementation throughout Australia.

With a remarkable career spanning over two decades in professional services, Ms. Wennerbom has played a pivotal role in BDO’s financial success and has championed operational efficiency, growth, and innovation. As CFO, she expertly managed BDO’s financial operations and performance, navigating the firm’s annual revenue growth from approximately $50 million and 20 partners in 2008 to the current figures of around $400 million and over 250 partners. Moreover, Ms. Wennerbom skillfully oversaw the financial integration of BDO Group Holdings as the firm progressed towards becoming a unified national entity.

BDO Australia’s Chief Executive Partner, Tony Schiffmann, expressed his pride in Ms. Wennerbom’s promotion, highlighting her impressive financial acumen and instrumental role in successfully delivering the complex financial integration of the Australian firm. He emphasized that her comprehensive understanding of the firm, coupled with her operational and strategic priorities, positions her perfectly to evaluate organizational performance and drive further growth. Schiffmann emphasized the critical role Ms. Wennerbom’s focus on operational excellence and innovation will play as the firm continues to evolve.

“I am proud to be part of a firm that genuinely puts people first. Taking up the role of COO is an exciting opportunity for me and I am fortunate to work with such a talented and dedicated team… I look forward to my continued involvement, albeit wearing a new hat, on the BDO executive team, building upon the firm’s strong foundation and helping to drive its continued success.”

Said, Cara Wennerbom in response to the promotion announcement.  

Ms. Wennerbom’s professional background includes a Bachelor of Business and a Masters of Professional Accounting degree from QUT. She is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Additionally, she serves as a director on the Netball Queensland board, showcasing her commitment to both her profession and the community.

With Cara Wennerbom’s promotion, BDO Australia is poised to leverage her extensive experience and leadership skills to further enhance operational efficiency, drive strategic growth, and foster a culture of innovation across the organisation.

As Ms. Wennerbom transitions into her new role over the next few months, BDO Australia has commenced the search for a replacement CFO.