Navigating Change: The Evolution of Moore and ArcBlue in Australia’s Business Landscape
April 19, 2025, 4:55 am
In the world of business, change is the only constant. Two firms, Moore and ArcBlue, exemplify this truth in their journeys through the Australian market. Each has carved a unique path, adapting to challenges and seizing opportunities. Their stories reflect resilience, innovation, and a commitment to client success.
Moore, an accounting and advisory firm, recently celebrated a significant milestone: 25 years in South Australia. It began as a small suburban accountancy in Adelaide, under the Hayes Knight banner, on April 1, 2000. Founded by Grant Miles and Tim Sargent, the firm emerged during a pivotal moment in Australian tax history—the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). This was no small feat. The GST transformed the landscape of compliance and reporting, pushing businesses to rethink their accounting practices.
In those early days, Moore faced the daunting task of helping clients navigate this new tax system. Instead of shying away from the challenge, they embraced it. They educated clients on compliance and introduced them to new tools. This proactive approach laid the groundwork for real-time data analysis, a game-changer in the accounting world. Businesses transitioned from annual to quarterly, even monthly reporting. Manual accounting became obsolete. Moore positioned itself as a partner in growth, not just a service provider.
Fast forward to today, and Moore has grown into a formidable player in the industry. With over 100 staff members and a presence in both South Australia and the Northern Territory, the firm has expanded its services and expertise. The addition of directors and associate directors has bolstered its leadership team, ensuring a diverse range of insights and strategies.
A significant turning point came in 2016 when the Australian accounting landscape underwent rapid consolidation. Moore’s South Australian branch faced upheaval as it lost key divisions to competitors. Yet, in the face of adversity, they adapted. They merged with Hayes Knight’s practices, strengthening their position in the market. This strategic move was not just about survival; it was about enhancing their ability to serve clients better.
In 2020, the firm rebranded to Moore Australia, aligning with its global network. This decision came during a tumultuous period marked by the COVID-19 pandemic. Moore’s leadership made critical choices to protect their staff and clients. They suspended director dividends and froze price increases, ensuring that no employee faced job loss or pay cuts. This commitment to people over profit resonated deeply, allowing them to retain every client during the crisis.
Today, Moore Australia is part of a global network generating over $5 billion in revenue. While it sits just inside the top twenty accounting firms in Australia, its ambitions are clear. The firm is focused on building a strong culture, fostering collaboration, and embracing technological innovation. The shift to live financial data has empowered clients, enabling them to make informed decisions. Moore sees itself as more than just accountants; it’s a partner in the growth journey of its clients.
On the other side of the consultancy spectrum, ArcBlue is also navigating change. Founded in 2013 by Chris Newman and Dan Fielding, ArcBlue has established itself as a leading procurement and supply chain consultancy in the Asia Pacific region. Recently, the firm welcomed Daniel Collings as its new managing director, succeeding the founders who have left to explore new opportunities.
Collings brings a wealth of experience from Proxima, a Bain-owned consultancy where he played a pivotal role in expanding its North American operations. His deep industry knowledge and leadership skills position him well to guide ArcBlue into its next chapter. With a team of over 150 consultants, ArcBlue serves clients across various sectors, including healthcare, energy, and public services.
The firm’s focus on procurement transformations is crucial in today’s fast-paced business environment. Companies are under pressure to optimize their supply chains and enhance efficiency. ArcBlue’s offerings—performance improvement, learning and development, social and sustainable procurement, and project procurement—are tailored to meet these demands.
As the founders step back, they leave behind a legacy of innovation and growth. Their commitment to social and sustainable procurement has made a significant impact in the region. They have built a strong team and fostered relationships that will continue to thrive under Collings’ leadership.
Both Moore and ArcBlue illustrate the power of adaptability in business. They have faced challenges head-on, turning potential setbacks into opportunities for growth. Their stories are not just about numbers and profits; they are about people, relationships, and the pursuit of excellence.
In a world where change is inevitable, these firms stand as beacons of resilience. They remind us that success is not merely about surviving the storm but learning to dance in the rain. As they move forward, their commitment to innovation and client success will undoubtedly shape the future of their industries. The next chapters in their stories are yet to be written, but one thing is clear: they are ready to embrace whatever comes next.
Moore, an accounting and advisory firm, recently celebrated a significant milestone: 25 years in South Australia. It began as a small suburban accountancy in Adelaide, under the Hayes Knight banner, on April 1, 2000. Founded by Grant Miles and Tim Sargent, the firm emerged during a pivotal moment in Australian tax history—the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). This was no small feat. The GST transformed the landscape of compliance and reporting, pushing businesses to rethink their accounting practices.
In those early days, Moore faced the daunting task of helping clients navigate this new tax system. Instead of shying away from the challenge, they embraced it. They educated clients on compliance and introduced them to new tools. This proactive approach laid the groundwork for real-time data analysis, a game-changer in the accounting world. Businesses transitioned from annual to quarterly, even monthly reporting. Manual accounting became obsolete. Moore positioned itself as a partner in growth, not just a service provider.
Fast forward to today, and Moore has grown into a formidable player in the industry. With over 100 staff members and a presence in both South Australia and the Northern Territory, the firm has expanded its services and expertise. The addition of directors and associate directors has bolstered its leadership team, ensuring a diverse range of insights and strategies.
A significant turning point came in 2016 when the Australian accounting landscape underwent rapid consolidation. Moore’s South Australian branch faced upheaval as it lost key divisions to competitors. Yet, in the face of adversity, they adapted. They merged with Hayes Knight’s practices, strengthening their position in the market. This strategic move was not just about survival; it was about enhancing their ability to serve clients better.
In 2020, the firm rebranded to Moore Australia, aligning with its global network. This decision came during a tumultuous period marked by the COVID-19 pandemic. Moore’s leadership made critical choices to protect their staff and clients. They suspended director dividends and froze price increases, ensuring that no employee faced job loss or pay cuts. This commitment to people over profit resonated deeply, allowing them to retain every client during the crisis.
Today, Moore Australia is part of a global network generating over $5 billion in revenue. While it sits just inside the top twenty accounting firms in Australia, its ambitions are clear. The firm is focused on building a strong culture, fostering collaboration, and embracing technological innovation. The shift to live financial data has empowered clients, enabling them to make informed decisions. Moore sees itself as more than just accountants; it’s a partner in the growth journey of its clients.
On the other side of the consultancy spectrum, ArcBlue is also navigating change. Founded in 2013 by Chris Newman and Dan Fielding, ArcBlue has established itself as a leading procurement and supply chain consultancy in the Asia Pacific region. Recently, the firm welcomed Daniel Collings as its new managing director, succeeding the founders who have left to explore new opportunities.
Collings brings a wealth of experience from Proxima, a Bain-owned consultancy where he played a pivotal role in expanding its North American operations. His deep industry knowledge and leadership skills position him well to guide ArcBlue into its next chapter. With a team of over 150 consultants, ArcBlue serves clients across various sectors, including healthcare, energy, and public services.
The firm’s focus on procurement transformations is crucial in today’s fast-paced business environment. Companies are under pressure to optimize their supply chains and enhance efficiency. ArcBlue’s offerings—performance improvement, learning and development, social and sustainable procurement, and project procurement—are tailored to meet these demands.
As the founders step back, they leave behind a legacy of innovation and growth. Their commitment to social and sustainable procurement has made a significant impact in the region. They have built a strong team and fostered relationships that will continue to thrive under Collings’ leadership.
Both Moore and ArcBlue illustrate the power of adaptability in business. They have faced challenges head-on, turning potential setbacks into opportunities for growth. Their stories are not just about numbers and profits; they are about people, relationships, and the pursuit of excellence.
In a world where change is inevitable, these firms stand as beacons of resilience. They remind us that success is not merely about surviving the storm but learning to dance in the rain. As they move forward, their commitment to innovation and client success will undoubtedly shape the future of their industries. The next chapters in their stories are yet to be written, but one thing is clear: they are ready to embrace whatever comes next.