Marcus Kirkpatrick

Senior Manager - Ballarat

Marcus Kirkpatrick is a Senior Manager in the Ballarat Business Advisory division.

He specialises in providing comprehensive advice to small-to-medium-sized enterprises, with a focus on wealth creation, tax minimisation, self-managed superannuation and a variety of business strategies while maintaining a client-centric approach to his work.

With prior experience in accounting and information technology, Marcus joined RSM in 2011 from a family farming background. Marcus’ experience and technical knowledge allows him to provide comprehensive advice to a wide array of small-to-medium-sized enterprises. His advice encompasses areas such as wealth creation, profit maximisation, tax minimisation, structuring solutions, risk management and succession planning which often leverages his personal ties to farming. In addition to delivering crucial advisory services to agribusiness clients, Marcus possesses a distinctive technical specialisation in self-managed superannuation.

As of 2020, he holds the designation of SMSF Specialist Advisor, showcasing his expertise in this constantly evolving field. He takes great pride in guiding clients strategically through all stages of their SMSF lifecycle, from establishment to wind-up. Within RSM, Marcus is a member of the Business Advisory Best Practice Working Group that strives to improve the efficiencies and effectiveness of the internal procedures used within the organisation. He is also a member of the manufacturing sector group, focusing on engineering, robotics, and automation. 

Marcus finds great fulfilment in building strong, long-term relationships with clients, understanding their individual aspirations and challenges, and guiding them through the complexities of financial and business planning. By developing timely and effective customised strategies, he ensures that each plan is not only aligned with the client’s vision but also adaptable to changing circumstances.

He takes an active role in assisting with the implementation of these strategies, providing ongoing support and advice to help clients stay on track and make informed decisions. This hands-on approach allows him to add significant value, helping clients navigate financial complexities, seize growth opportunities and ultimately, reach their desired outcomes.

Prior to RSM, Marcus began his career with an undergraduate role at a local accounting firm, where he gained foundational experience in accounting principles, client management, and financial reporting. This role provided him with valuable insights into the day-to-day operations of an accounting practice and the importance of clear communication and attention to detail when advising clients on financial matters.

Following this, he transitioned to a role at the IBM Customer Support Desk, where he provided first- and second-level technical customer support to national clients. In this capacity, he developed strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage and resolve complex technical issues efficiently. The combination of these experiences in both accounting and technical support helped Marcus build a unique skill set that integrates financial acumen with a deep understanding of technology and client service, forming a strong foundation for his future advisory roles.

"I take pride in using my diverse background in accounting, technology, and agribusiness to provide tailored advice and strategies that help my clients achieve their financial and business goals."

Outside of work, Marcus has a variety of interests that keep him engaged and balanced. He is an avid reader, always exploring new genres and authors, which helps him stay informed and inspired. In addition to his love for reading, Marcus is a dedicated collector of Pokémon, finding joy in building his collection and staying connected to the community around this popular franchise.

A passionate supporter of the Essendon Bombers, Marcus rarely misses a game and enjoys discussing match highlights and team strategies. Beyond his hobbies, he values quality time with his family, enjoying activities such as exploring new places or simply relaxing at home with his wife and son.

Solutions MARCUS provides

Marcus provides expert knowledge in the following areas:

•    Accounting and tax
•    SMSF services
•    Financial accounting
•    Cloud and digital
•    Business Advisory Services in Ballarat

Associations

•    Member, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ)
•    SMSF Specialist Advisor (SMSF Association)

Qualifications

•     Graduate Diploma (CAANZ)
•     Intuit QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor
•     Xero Certified Advisor
•     Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) with Distinction, University of Ballarat
•     Bachelor of Computing with Distinction, University of Ballarat

AWARDS

•     Vice-Chancellor's Award, University of Ballarat (2005)
•     School of Business Award for Academic Excellence, University of Ballarat (2009)