In this in-depth episode, Steve sits down with Sean Keegan, the Head of Tax for Australia at Alvarez & Marsal (A&M). Sean takes us on a fascinating journey, from how he "fell into" a tax career at PwC to his time in the investment banking world in London and his return to M&A tax. He offers a transparent account of the challenges he faced, including rebuilding his professional brand after a stint overseas and the demanding transition to becoming a brand-new partner at a new firm.

We also explore his move to A&M, where he and his Senior Partners have built a national tax team from the ground up. He shares why the unique opportunity to start with a blank sheet of paper, backed by a global consulting brand, was an offer he couldn't turn down.

Listeners will get an inside look at:

• The "Three-Legged Stool" of a Successful Partner: Sean's unique take on the three essential attributes needed to thrive in a leadership role.
• Business Development Secrets: Why building trust and relationships is more crucial than selling, and how to start doing it from day one.
• Navigating Career Progression: Candid advice on dealing with frustration and why a bit of extra patience can make you a more successful partner in the long run.
• The Power of Personal Brand: How to leverage a global firm's name to build your own reputation and the critical role your personal brand plays in a new business.
• The Future of the Industry: A forward-looking discussion on how technology, particularly AI, is reshaping professional services and the importance of in-person relationships that can't be replaced.

This is an essential listen for anyone in accounting, law, or consulting, offering practical wisdom and inspiration directly from a leader who has built his career by challenging the status quo.