Lawyer-turned-insolvency accountant joins Jirsch Sutherland
New senior manager Luka Pilipovic says his dual qualifications are “ideal” are ideal for tackling complex insolvency issues.
Insolvency firm Jirsch Sutherland has appointed a dually CPA qualified accountant and lawyer as a senior manager.
Luka Pilipovic joined the firm’s Newcastle office this month, bringing 13 years of insolvency experience.
The firm described Pilipovic as a “seasoned insolvency specialist” and said his appointment would “greatly enhance the firm and contribute to our continued national success”.
“We’re thrilled that Luka has joined our team. While considering him for this role, we did not find one person who would speak ill of him. That’s a feat seldom seen in this industry!” Bradd Morelli, national managing partner, said.
Pilipovic studied accounting and law at university.
While working as a graduate solicitor at commercial law boutique Ziman and Ziman Solicitors, he gravitated towards insolvency and bankruptcy matters.
“I find the legal and ethical aspects involved with this area very exciting,” he said.
“I found a natural home for my two skillsets in the restructuring, turnaround and insolvency space. Insolvency law is extremely complex, with considerable time pressures put on restructuring specialists, and my dual qualifications are ideal for this sector.”
He then made the switch to accounting, working at mid-tier Hall Chadwick and insolvency boutiques Crouch Amirbeaggi and Shaw Gidley Insolvency & Reconstruction.
Most recently, Pilipovic was an associate at turnaround and advisory firm Rapsey Griffiths, according to his LinkedIn profile.
“I’ve been fortunate to have had the benefit of working with some great leaders. We learn from others, so hopefully I can pass some of my better qualities onto my junior colleagues,” Pilipovic said.
His said he was focused on providing “simple, common-sense solutions” to complex restructuring and insolvency problems and communicating “effectively, honestly and in a timely manner” with clients.
“Most people want to speak to someone who’s easy to understand and acts with empathy,” he said.
“Insolvency can be a majorly significant event for many stakeholders, and it’s crucial to remember the important role insolvency practitioners play in many people’s lives.”
“Smaller creditors, contractors, employees and directors are especially impacted and they are all facing their own circumstances. Thus, it’s important that we treat people with respect, in the same way we would like to be treated.”
Pilipovic was also involved in the Newcastle CPA Australia branch, chairing the local committee and convening the CPA Tax Discussion Group.
“Through my involvement with the local branch I am lucky to be involved with a myriad of professional events throughout the year,” he said.
“They’re a great way to bring people together to discuss ideas and solutions, and they enable members to get to know a lot of other people.”
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