Chris Oates

Director - Canberra

Areas of focus

Financial Investments

Intergenerational Wealth Transfer

Government

Health

Not for profit

Job title

Director

Office Location

Chris is a Director in the Financial Services Division.

Chris is a Certified Financial Planner® with significant experience providing advice on superannuation, managed investments, and retirement income streams.

Chris uses his experience in finance to create solutions for clients and help them reach their financial goals.

With a strong background generating financial strategies for both public and private sector clients, Chris prides himself on his ability to build long-lasting relationships and deliver personalised, professional services that simplify the financial complexities of life.

His deep knowledge of Commonwealth-defined benefit superannuation schemes has helped enhance the lives of many public sector employees and their families, allowing them to achieve the best possible outcomes and giving them the freedom to enjoy the things they care about most.

"We are all experts at different things. My motto is letting people do what they are good at and enjoy, then I take care of simplifying their financial lives."

Chris’ ethical and educational approach to financial management focuses on building the knowledge and understanding of his clients so they are empowered to make sound financial choices.

Whether there are important financial decisions to be made or people are simply working to achieve a lifestyle goal, Chris specialises in tailoring investment solutions that ensure his clients are best placed to make the most of the future.

Chris has always operated under the principle that his work should improve others' lives. He believes in the importance of reflecting on the advice he provides, stepping back to understand clients' journeys and the positive impact his guidance has had on their lives. This perspective not only reinforces his commitment to helping people but also makes it immensely rewarding for him to see tangible outcomes. This approach fuels his dedication and passion for his profession, driving him to continually strive for excellence.

Before joining RSM, Chris amassed a diverse range of work experience. He began on the family farm near Orange, then worked in a fridge manufacturing plant before studying finance at a university in Canberra. After graduation, he started his career as a Financial Adviser, quickly establishing himself in the field. His expertise deepened while working for a superannuation fund, where he mastered the intricacies of government superannuation systems. This varied background provided Chris with a well-rounded perspective and a robust skill set, making him a valuable addition to the RSM team.

Chris is unequivocally a morning person. He thrives in the early hours of the day, finding that productivity comes more naturally to him in the morning. By tackling tasks early, Chris ensures that his work is completed efficiently and effectively, avoiding the pitfalls of late-night efforts.

Outside of work, Chris is an avid sports enthusiast who is always eager to try new activities. His adventurous spirit and love for physical challenges make him open to participating in any sport. Among his many interests, golf holds a special place. Chris rarely turns down an invitation to play a round, finding joy and camaraderie on the golf course. His willingness to engage in various sports reflects his energetic personality and his passion for staying active.

RSM Financial Services Australia Pty Ltd ABN 22 009 176 354 AFS Licence No 238282

SOLUTIONS CHRIS PROVIDES

SIGNIFICANT PROJECTS

Chris has helped clients with defined benefit superannuation funds that have exceeded superannuation balance limits but still need to be able to contribute to their funds to ensure they maximise their retirement benefits.
Chris has assisted his clients with many complex financial strategies and concepts and helped to make them as simple as possible for them to understand and implement.