What gets Yvonne out of bed every morning? The satisfaction of orchestrating complex projects behind the scenes, making the impossible look effortless. As UHY’s Practice Manager and HR Manager, she’s the strategic orchestrator who ensures everything runs smoothly while nobody even realises the intricate work happening in the background.
“I like organising big projects and getting people together, being able to make things simpler for people behind the scenes,” Yvonne explains. “A lot of the work I do, people don’t even know I’m doing it, and that’s what I want to happen.”
Yvonne has mastered the art of seamless execution. When directors take on complex client acquisitions or major projects, she’s the one pulling together suppliers, managing processes, and coordinating teams to deliver results that consistently exceed expectations.
The strategic problem-solver
Yvonne’s superpower lies in her ability to communicate effectively while keeping emotions out of decision-making. “I can pull back when other people see problems. I’m quite good at putting out fires quickly, and if people are having difficulty, I get them talking to each other.”
This balanced approach—combining practical problem-solving with genuine empathy—makes her invaluable when tensions arise or deadlines loom. She’s the steady hand that guides teams through challenges while maintaining perspective on the bigger picture.
Her organisational skills extend far beyond simple list-making. Yvonne leverages technology and systems thinking to stay ahead of multiple projects simultaneously. “I always prep for the next day. I know exactly what I have to do, what I have to achieve.”
The client relationship expert
As the credit management specialist, Yvonne has made it her mission to build relationships with virtually every client. Her strategy is simple yet effective: she picks up the phone and has conversations with clients, listening to their concerns and working together to agree on arrangements that suit their unique needs. This direct, human approach has not only fostered strong relationships but also resulted in remarkable achievements.
By treating clients as people while maintaining professional boundaries, Yvonne addresses their needs effectively and ensures their satisfaction. This approach has become key to continued success across the entire firm, demonstrating how genuine connection transforms potentially difficult conversations into collaborative solutions.
Talent development champion
One of Yvonne’s greatest sources of satisfaction comes from nurturing talent. “I’ve employed just about everyone here, including a couple of directors. I really like it when I’ve taken a grad on and now they’re a senior accountant.”
She describes watching team members progress as profoundly rewarding: “There are a couple of them that are senior accountants now, and it’s just fantastic—that journey. When I interview people, I see a spark in them about something.”
But Yvonne also understands that growth requires honest feedback. “There’s been times when you’ve got to be that person as well, so they understand when things haven’t gone right.”
The foundation of stability
Drawing from her background as a bank manager and training manager in New Zealand, Yvonne brings a unique perspective to the accounting world. “I’m a completely different personality than anyone else that works here, and I love it.”
This diversity of experience allows her to connect with clients and team members from all backgrounds, creating an environment where people feel understood and supported. She’s become what the team calls “the place of stability”—the person everyone can rely on to provide clarity, support, and direction when needed.
For Yvonne, success isn’t about recognition—it’s about seeing others thrive. Whether she’s streamlining complex processes, resolving client concerns, or helping a team member reach their potential, she’s driven by the satisfaction of making things work better for everyone around her.
