meet our team

With over 25 years experience in the Financial industry holding senior positions, Margaret is a graduate of the Securities Institute of Australia, a Certified Financial Planner and Self-Managed Superfund Accredited Adviser. Margaret is well qualified to provide advice to financial planning clients across a broad range of strategies and products.
Margaret has completed the education requirements set out by the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA). FASEA was established by the Federal Government in 2017 to set the education, training and ethical standards of licensed financial advisers in Australia.

Margaret played in the novice World Backgammon Championship flight in Monte Carlo in 1983.

Stuart is the Financial Controller for the Bongiorno Group.  He commenced in this role in 2005 after 18 years as an accountant in public practice.  He has a Bachelor of Commerce degree and is a Chartered Accountant.

Stuart is a music lover and attends as many concerts as he can with his family each year!

With over 25 years in the marcomms arena,  Anneliese is a specialist in brand strategy and stakeholder relations. As well as developing and implementing the business marketing programs, she works with major medical and dental colleges around Australia developing key relationships and strategic alliances for the Bongiorno National Network.

As a little girl, Anna dreamed of riding two white horses in a pink tutu at once. Secretly she still wants to! 

Andrew has worked in the financial services industry since 1985. During this time he has held positions in banking, administration, training, financial planning and compliance. He has completed the Diploma of Financial Planning and the Certificate IV in Finance & Mortgage Broking.

Andrew is a Collingwood football club fanatic.

Yanish brings close to 15 years of expertise in financial advice to his role as Head of Advice at the Bongiorno Group. His career includes senior positions at mid-tier financial planning firms and a leading Big 4 consultancy.

Passionate about empowering clients through informed decision-making, Yanish leverages his extensive knowledge and experience to help individuals achieve their financial and lifestyle aspirations. He also prioritises implementing robust protection strategies to safeguard against unforeseen challenges.

Yanish is an MBA graduate from Deakin University and has completed the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Certification Program through the Financial Advice Association Australia. He also holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Finance), a Post Graduate Diploma in Commerce (Taxation), and an Advanced Diploma in Financial Services (Financial Planning).

Yanish holds a scuba diving licence and speaks fluent French.

With over 25 years’ experience in business, human resources and recruitment, Shaunagh brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Bongiorno team. She has extensive experience working with both large and boutique professional practice firms. With a focus on people, Shaunagh fosters strong relationships to create positive, productive work environments.

Born in Alice Springs, Shaunagh has lived in the US and South Africa and has six children and two grandchildren which she says doesn’t give her any time to do anything else!

Having recently joined the Bongiorno team in late 2023, Trevor is a highly experienced Chartered Accountant with a wealth of knowledge in client advice and practice management for medical professionals. 

Trevor actually worked at the Bongiorno Group in 1979 for a number of years before becoming a founding partner in his own practice, advising medical and dental clients on taxation, planning and business structures. 

Fun Fact:
Trevor is still celebrating the greatest AFL Grand Final win of all by the Bulldogs in 2016 – so he says.

Sarah joined the Bongiorno Group in 2001 and has worked in financial services for nearly 30 years.

Graduating from Melbourne University with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Sarah holds a Diploma of Financial Services (Financial Planning) and is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA). Sarah has completed the education requirements set out by the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA). FASEA was established by the Federal Government in 2017 to set the education, training and ethical standards of licensed financial advisers in Australia.

Sarah also looks after clients in the greater Geelong area.

Sarah hitchhiked solo from Argentina to Chile and back again (approx. 600km) in 1 day.

Helen joined the Bongiorno Group in 2002 as a Tax Consultant. Previously she worked in the public practice environment and as a Financial Accountant for a public listed company. Helen holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting), a Graduate Diploma in Business Information Technology, her Certificate of Financial Planning and is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA).

Helen once popped her rib out whilst lifting luggage into the overhead compartment on an aeroplane.

MayMay joined Director Paul Fox’s team in 2018 as his tax manager, bringing with her 15 years of experience . Previously working in a boutique accounting firm in the CBD, MayMay holds her Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting), a Master of Applied Finance, CA and Diploma in Financial Planning.

MayMay loves spending a sunny day at the Victoria Market.

David joined the Bongiorno Group in 2008. He holds a Bachelor of Business degree (majoring in Accounting) from RMIT University. David has completed the CPA program and is currently undertaking a Diploma of Financial Planning. David is our Xero champion at the Bongiorno Group.

David has completed a 4-day Inca Trail hike to see the sun rise over Machu Picchu.

Chantelle holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree and brings over 10 years’ experience as a Chartered Accountant to the Bongiorno Group. Chantelle has experience with a number of industries and client groups ranging from high-net-worth individuals to large-listed medical companies. Chantelle is part of Nick Fennessy’s team.

Chantelle has her motorbike licence.

Gloriana joined the Bongiorno Group in 2015 as part of the accounting and tax team for Directors Tony Bongiorno and Magdaline Askitis. She graduated from Melbourne University with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, majoring in Accounting and Finance and has also attained the Diploma of Financial Planning. Gloriana has also completed the CPA Program and is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA).

Gloriana once danced for the Sultan of Brunei as part of his birthday celebrations.

Joining the Bongiorno Group in 2021, Sheryll is an integral part of the tax and accounting team for Directors Tony Bongiorno and Magdaline Askitis. Sheryll holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree, majoring in Accounting from Deakin University, as well as being a Qualified Chartered Accountant (CPA).

Sheryll was a pirate in the musical play ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ in primary school.

Konstantine works as a Senior Accountant in Director Jim Tsirtsakis’s team and holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Monash University, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Mathematics. Konstantine is also a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA) and has a Diploma in Financial Planning (DipFP).

Konstantine practices fencing as a hobby ‘en garde’.

Joining the Bongiorno Group in 2022, Hendri is an integral part of Director, Paul Fox’s team as a Senior Accountant, looking after client tax returns. Holding both a Bachelor of Business and Master of Business degree (majoring in Accounting) from Monash University, Hendri is also a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA). Hendri has had previous experience in Public Practice roles for over 10 years.

Hendri had a root canal without any anaesthetic!

Shelley graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Accounting and Finance. She has previously worked in financial services as an accountant before joining the Bongiorno Group in 2017. Shelley holds her CA and works in Sarah Thorburn’s team.

When Shelley was in high school, she wanted to be a midwife.

Mannie joined Bongiorno in 2023 as a senior accountant, with almost a decade of experience specialising in dentistry and veterinary clientele. As a senior member of Director Jim Tsirtsakis’ team, Mannie is a Chartered Accountant (CA) and holds a Bachelor of Business in economics and finance from RMIT.

Mannie has a twin – who is also an accountant!  

With more than 23 years accounting experience, Savas joined Bongiorno Group in 2024. Previously, he’d spent over 15 years as an accountant for a niche management consulting firm before moving into public practice accounting in 2016, supporting small business clients. Savas is a member of Magdaline Askitis’ team and holds a Bachelor of Business with a major in Accounting from RMIT.

Savas collects and restores vintage Lenco turntables from the 1960s and proudly owns four of them.

Melissa joins the Bongiorno Group as a Senior Account in Tax Manager, Helen Cheng’s team. With a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) from Swinburne University, Melissa brings a wealth of experience with her, forged over the last ten years working across the dental and veterinary sectors.

Melissa is currently furthering her qualifications as she studies to be a CA (chartered accountant).

Melissa was a track and field star back in school but now settles for running after a cheeky 5 year old daughter!

Joining Director Paul Fox’s team in mid 2024, Stella brought 17 years’ experience in public practice roles to Bongiorno Group. She holds a Bachelor of Science from Shanghai Jiaotong University, a Master of
Professional Accounting from RMIT and is a CPA member.

Stella is the go-to for her mastery in cooking delicious Chinese food.

Melody joined the Bongiorno Group after completing a Bachelor of Business majoring in Accounting. She works with Director Paul Fox’s team, completing tax returns, taking care of their administrative duties and client contact.

Despite her name, Melody’s only musical talent is singing in the car with the music too loud.

Natasha works as an accountant and is an integral part of Director Jim Tsirtsakis’ team.  Holding both a Master of Business and a Master of Professional Accounting from Monash University, Natasha is also currently undertaking her CPA.

Natasha had the privilege of meeting Keanu Reeves a few years ago.

Mai joined the Bongiorno Group in 2021. She is an accountant for Paul Fox’s team. Mai is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

Mai has climbed Mt. Fansipan, the highest mountain in Vietnam.

Clara joined the Bongiorno Group in early 2024 as an accountant in tax manager, Helen Cheng’s team. Holding a Bachelor of Business majoring in Accounting from RMIT University, Clara previously worked for over two years with a Melbourne accounting firm and she is currently pursuing her CA qualification.

Clara loves travelling and exploring new destinations, especially any place where there is a beach.

Nicolas joined the Bongiorno Group in 2023 as a tax administrator for the Doctors in Training team.  Holding a Bachelor of Commerce, Nicolas majored in Accounting and Finance at Monash University. With an extensive background in hospitality, his management experience has quickly made him a strong asset to his team. 

Nicolas’ hobbies include hiking and mountain climbing.  

Joining Bongiorno Group in 2024, Akul brings five years’ accounting and tax experience to Director Nick Fennessey’s team. Having previously worked in public practice firms in Melbourne, he has supported clients across a range of industries. Akul holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) from La Trobe University, is a CPA associate member and is studying the CPA program.

Akul is an avid hiker, guitar-player, risotto chef and Carlton Football Club supporter

Dipanwita joined the Bongiorno team in June 2023 and works as a Graduate Accountant in Director, Jim Tsirtsakis’ team. Dipanwita holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (majoring in accounting and finance) and a Master of Professional Accounting.

Dipanwita loves to do a dance workout rather than regular exercise after a stressful day. It refreshes her mind!

Patricia joined the Bongiorno Group in August 2024 as the Tax Administrator for Tax Managers, David Lay and MayMay Antolis.
Prior to joining Bongiorno, Patricia worked in the Philippines in the accounting field before pursuing a Postgraduate degree in Professional Accounting at Deakin University. She is planning to take her CA/CPA soon to fulfill her dream of becoming a fully qualified accountant.

Patricia is currently learning Korean and has a good working proficiency being able to speak, write, and read basic Korean.

Rhianne brought her administrative skills to Bongiorno in 2023 after transitioning into the accounting world two years prior, earning her stripes at a smaller boutique firm. In her role as a tax administrator, Rhianne supports both Sarah Thorburn and Helen Cheng’s teams. 

Rhianne picked up pottery during the covid lockdowns and is now the proud owner of her very own pottery wheel. 

Edward is the newest member of the Doctors in Training Team. Working alongside accountants Ada and Nic, Edward is a tax administrator for the young doctors and dentists coming through.In between his work at the Bongiorno Group, Edward is continuing his studies at Monash University.

Edward loves to travel and try out new foods.

Before joining the Bongiorno team in 2024, Jasper had completed an audit & assurance undergraduate internship and gained experience in security reconciliation, data entry, tax and EOFY administration. He’s currently studying his Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Finance double degree at Monash University, majoring in accounting.

Jasper can name all the world’s countries very quickly – try him!

Effie joins the Bongiorno team as a Tax Administrator with over sixteen years’ experience in accounting, insurance and financial planning practice. Working for Director Nick Fennessy and Tax Manager, Chantelle Turner, Effie has a depth of knowledge and is a welcome asset to the team.

In her past life (before children), Effie was known to be gracing the Latin & Ballroom floors around town.

Ondrej joins the Bongiorno Group as a Tax Administrator with over 14 years of experience in hospitality management. As part of Director Magdaline Askitis and Executive Consultant, Trevor Baxter’s team, Ondrej channels his fantastic client relationship skills in his new position.

He was born in a country which doesn’t now technically exist. He also owns more thongs than shoes.

As a tax administrator and client relationship manager, Ursula supports a number of teams across the
Bongiorno office. Having been part of the team for 9 years, she manages our ATO correspondence
and continues to play an instrumental role in our transition to a paperless system.

Ursula likes to play tennis at her local club in Kooyong, and is a proud Collingwood supporter!

Yanish brings close to 15 years of expertise in financial advice to his role as Head of Advice at the Bongiorno Group. His career includes senior positions at mid-tier financial planning firms and a leading Big 4 consultancy.

Passionate about empowering clients through informed decision-making, Yanish leverages his extensive knowledge and experience to help individuals achieve their financial and lifestyle aspirations. He also prioritises implementing robust protection strategies to safeguard against unforeseen challenges.

Yanish is an MBA graduate from Deakin University and has completed the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Certification Program through the Financial Advice Association Australia. He also holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Finance), a Post Graduate Diploma in Commerce (Taxation), and an Advanced Diploma in Financial Services (Financial Planning).

Yanish holds a scuba diving licence and speaks fluent French.

Loretta is the Senior Financial Adviser at the Bongiorno Group. She holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting), a Diploma of Financial Planning and Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking and is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA). Loretta is also a valued member of the Institute of Public Accountants (MIPA) and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) with extensive experience in the Financial Services Industry.

Loretta is obsessed with watching home shows such as Grand Designs and Escape to the Country.

Director Vanessa Smith has worked in the Financial Services Industry for over 20 years and joined the Bongiorno Group in 2007. Specialising in Tax and Financial Planning for young professionals, Vanessa holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) degree and is a Certified Financial Planner. She also holds an Advanced Diploma of Financial Services (FP) and Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking. Additionally, Vanessa has completed the education requirements set out by the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA).

Vanessa regrets watching renovation shows and taking on her own renovation “project”.

Tom joined the Bongiorno Group in 2015 and has since played an important role within the insurance team. He currently works closely with all consultants and directors to offer strategic advice to Bongiorno clients on insurance and risk protection strategies.

Tom holds a Diploma in Financial Planning (DipFP) and has successfully completed the FASEA Exam in financial planning.

Tom is an avid history lover and reader, he holds a particular interest in medieval history, partically Scottish, Welsh and Irish history.

With a Diploma of Financial Services, Helen has over 20 years’ experience specialising in personal risk insurance. Helen works closely with our clients to ensure all their insurance needs are met.

Helen used to ride her pet cow called Mischief.

Miko joined the Financial Services industry in 2018, initially working in administration and client services. She eventually realised a hard-earned career goal and joined the Bongiorno team in 2024 as an Associate Adviser, working closely with Yanish Geerdharry and Tom Will. Miko holds a Bachelor of Commerce (majoring in Accounting and Finance) and a Post Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning. She is planning to complete the FASEA Exam in financial planning to further enhance her knowledge and assist her clients.

As a teenager, Miko found out she was born to be left-handed. For now, she can only use her left hand for holding chopsticks and a fork.

Isabele brings over six years of experience in the financial services industry, including her time at a boutique financial planning firm, before joining the Bongiorno Group in 2021. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Ethics from Monash University and a Master’s degree in Financial Planning. Isabele’s academic background and industry expertise enable her to provide thoughtful, client-centered financial advice tailored to the unique needs of medical professionals.

Isabele was born at exactly 3.33am.

Hannah has 6 years experience in the financial services industry and joined the Bongiorno Group in 2021. Hannah is currently completing her Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning with the Monarch Institute and holds a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Finance from Australian National University. Hannah works closely with Tony Bongiorno, Paul Fox and Loretta Hill in the financial planning section.

Hannah can speak 3 languages!

A valuable team member, Elana assists the Financial Planning team with the implementation of client strategies. She liaises with super funds and managed funds to assist the advisers in information gathering, work overflow and reporting.

Elana is a card shark!

As a Client Service Administrator for the Insurance team, Pauline is a seasoned customer service professional, having worked in the financial services industry since 1991. She has completed her Bachelor of Business (Finance and Insurance) and worked in various roles that include training, practice management/administration and customer-facing positions.

Pauline is a proud mum of two gorgeous kids and an absolutely stunning cat called Lola – she says that she would give Lola her credit card if she asked.

Matt is a vital member of our Doctors in Training team where he is primarily responsible for medical and dental students, Interns and young professionals moving through their careers. Holding a Bachelor of Commerce/Arts degree from the University of Melbourne, with majors in Finance, Management and Criminology, Matt has also attained his Diploma of Financial Planning and Certificate IV in Mortgage Finance Broking.

Matt’s favourite item of clothing is his board shorts.

Joining the Bongiorno Group in 2022, Hendri is an integral part of Director, Paul Fox’s team as a Senior Accountant, looking after client tax returns. Holding both a Bachelor of Business and Master of Business degree (majoring in Accounting) from Monash University, Hendri is also a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA). Hendri has had previous experience in Public Practice roles for over 10 years.

Hendri had a root canal without any anaesthetic!

Gloriana joined the Bongiorno Group in 2015 as part of the accounting and tax team for Directors Tony Bongiorno and Magdaline Askitis. She graduated from Melbourne University with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, majoring in Accounting and Finance and has also attained the Diploma of Financial Planning. Gloriana has also completed the CPA Program and is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA).

Gloriana once danced for the Sultan of Brunei as part of his birthday celebrations.

Nicolas joined the Bongiorno Group in 2023 as a tax administrator for the Doctors in Training team.  Holding a Bachelor of Commerce, Nicolas majored in Accounting and Finance at Monash University. With an extensive background in hospitality, his management experience has quickly made him a strong asset to his team. 

Nicolas’ hobbies include hiking and mountain climbing.  

Michele specialises in Self-Managed Superannuation Funds and graduated from Victoria University with a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) in 2003. She holds an Advanced Diploma in Financial Services (Superannuation) and became an SMSF Specialist Adviser (SSA) with the SMSF Association in 2010.

Michele has been swimming with fresh water crocodiles.

Working in the self-managed super fund (SMSF) industry for over two years with previous experience as a financial analyst, Affy joined the Bongiorno Group in 2024.
Affy holds a Master of Professional Accounting from Monash University and a Bachelor of Commerce (majoring in accounting). She is now planning to complete her SMSF Specialist Advisor (SSA®️) exam to further enhance her knowledge and assist the clients.

Affy is a car buff with a keen interest in automobiles. Her top picks are the Maserati GranTurismo and the Maybach S-Class.

With over 40 years’ experience at Westpac and 18 years spent working solely with Bongiorno Group clients, Mark brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Finance Team. Mark is responsible for assisting advisers and their respective clients on all finance matters, ensuring great outcomes and client experiences.

Mark is a musician out of hours, currently working in a couple of cover bands, a Rolling Stones Tribute and an Angels Tribute Act.

Jack is an integral member of the team, starting with the Bongiorno Group in 2015. As a Finance Manager, Jack works closely with all the directors and is primarily responsible for liaising between the client, director and bank regarding all finance matters. Jack holds his Diploma in Financial Planning as well as his Certificate Four in Finance and Mortgage Broking.

Jack is so chivalrous, we all think he should have been born during the Middle Ages.

Lawrence earned his Bachelor of Commerce degree in 2013, majoring in Business and Accounting Information Systems. He plays a key role within the finance team, overseeing the administrative operations and ensuring smooth team performance. His expertise and dedication make him a valuable asset to the team.

Appreciates a nice glass of well-aged whiskey.

Along with having a Diploma in Business Management and Mortgage Broking, Thea has previous experience working as in various administration roles.  Thea also holds residential loan experience and is now an integral part of the Finance Team, responsible for the administration and processing of finance applications.

Thea loves to travel and has lived in various cities overseas including Los Angeles, Tokyo and London!

Mia holds a Diploma in FP and her Cert IV Finance & Mortgage Broking. Prior to joining the Bongiorno team, Mia gained experience within ANZ as a credit assessor and with a mortgage brokerage firm. She is currently studying for her Bachelor of Actuarial Sciences at Monash. 

Mia is obsessed with unicorns and secretly loves all shades of pink. 

With over 25 years in the marcomms arena,  Anneliese is a specialist in brand strategy and stakeholder relations. As well as developing and implementing the business marketing programs, she works with major medical and dental colleges around Australia developing key relationships and strategic alliances for the Bongiorno National Network.

As a little girl, Anna dreamed of riding two white horses in a pink tutu at once. Secretly she still wants to! 

Olivia is the Executive Assistant to Director Nick Fennessy & Consultant Matthew Homewood, as well as working with Marketing Director Anneliese Shortt.
With a background in tax admin and practice management for a smaller sized financial services firm in Melbourne, Olivia has hit the ground running at the Bongiorno Group and brings a wealth of experience to the team.

Olivia worked in New York and can name almost every country in the world from memory – she’s the one to have on your trivia team!

Patrick joined the Bongiorno Group in 2016 and manages the company’s IT operations, systems, and infrastructure. He is responsible for ensuring systems, networks, and software function efficiently and align with organisational goals.

Patrick is a long-suffering Arsenal fan and can quote “Seinfeld” like scripture.

Gabriela joined the Bongiorno team in 2024, having worked primarily in office management, administration and legal assisting roles at legal and finance firms in Brazil and Australia. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Diploma in Leadership and Management.

Gabriela is taking Forró dance lessons and loves the ‘Friends’ show – she relates the most to the iconic Monica Geller

Hannah is the Executive Assistant to the Directors of the Bongiorno Group as well as CEO Margaret Mote. Having previously worked in the travel industry, Hannah joined the team in 2021 bringing with her years of expertise in managing all client and team member matters.

Hannah loves the beach and getting stuck into a good book.

Jo is the executive assitant to two directors Paul Fox and Jim Tsirtsakis and joined the Bongiorno Group in 2014. Having previous experience in advertising, PR and administration, she is an indispensable asset for all team members and clients.

Jo wants to be a dancer in her next life and is obsessed with dance TV shows. 

Olivia is the Executive Assistant to Director Nick Fennessy & Consultant Matthew Homewood, as well as working with Marketing Director Anneliese Shortt.
With a background in tax admin and practice management for a smaller sized financial services firm in Melbourne, Olivia has hit the ground running at the Bongiorno Group and brings a wealth of experience to the team.

Olivia worked in New York and can name almost every country in the world from memory – she’s the one to have on your trivia team!

Joining the Bongiorno Group in 2010, Amie has been working at the Bongiorno Group for over twelve years in various administration roles. Amie is currently our wonderful receptionist and looks after all day to day administration and client matters.

Amie’s favourite music group is the Village People.

Joining the Bongiorno Group in 2022, Kaylene brings many years of Reception/Administration experience working with medium to large Accounting and Law firms. Kaylene is responsible for all day to day administration and client matters, making her a vital member of the Bongiorno team.

Kaylene loves to travel and has visited many destinations within Australia, as well as overseas including Europe and Asia.