An established Whakatāne accounting and audit practice is entering a new chapter, with Protea Audit officially taking over Glenn Sullivan Chartered Accountant on November 1.

For long-standing clients, the transition has been carefully planned to ensure the personal service and familiar faces they know and trust remain part of the business.

For Protea founder Lourika Vosloo, a chartered accountant and registered qualified auditor, the acquisition represents an exciting opportunity to build on an established local practice while continuing to grow Protea’s service reach.

“Glenn has built something really special over the years, particularly the trust and relationships he has developed with his clients,” Vosloo said.

“For us, this isn’t about coming in and changing everything. It’s about respecting what’s already here, building on those foundations and making sure every client continues to feel supported, valued and understood.”

After many years in practice, Sullivan had been planning a gradual step back from the business. Finding the right person to take things forward was an important part of that decision.

“I’ve taken considerable care in finding someone who shares our values and understands the importance of the relationships we’ve built over the years.

“Lourika brings the experience, professionalism and genuine commitment to client service that I was looking for. I’m confident our clients will be in very good hands,” Sullivan said.

He will remain actively involved for the next 12 months, continuing as engagement partner during the transition to ensure a smooth handover and continuity for existing clients.

The transition also brings together an experienced team, with Vosloo and Petreece Amon joining existing team members Ange Edwards and Julz Hohepa.

Alongside the change in ownership and name, the practice will operate from a new office at 3/52 Boon Street, Whakatāne, creating a welcoming space for existing and new clients.

While the business enters a new chapter, the commitment to providing thorough, independent audit and assurance services with a personal approach remains unchanged.

“We know that change can bring questions, particularly when you’ve worked with the same people for many years. That’s why continuity has been such an important part of this transition. The knowledge, relationships and familiar faces are staying, and Glenn will be working alongside us throughout the handover” Vosloo said.

“And for organisations we haven’t worked with before, our door is very much open. We’d love the opportunity to get to know you and understand how we can help.”

For more information, visit www.proteaaudit.co.nz