National firm targets retailers with new offering

Grant Thornton has recruited partner Dhun Karai and principal Stuart Haughey to head its new payments advisory service, which will assist retailers in dealing with disruption currently occurring in the payments industry.

The service not only assesses ways to reduce costs, but also provides strategic advice to retailers on how they interact with customers at the point of payment for a transaction.

Ms Karai is a recognised industry expert with over 25 years’ experience in senior executive roles at the Commonwealth Bank, Credit Union Services and Woolworths Ltd.

Mr Haughey has over 20 years’ experience in senior executive roles across financial services and retail at Woolworths Ltd and, most recently, Cuscal.

Greg Keith, CEO of Grant Thornton Australia, said that navigating new payment methodologies is key for retailers tackling disruption and managing cost.

“There is a reduction in the use of ATMs. We've got new payment mechanisms that are coming in, and it's going to change buyer patterns,” Mr Keith told Accountants Daily.

“This is the first service that's gone to market where we're able to assist our clients to engage with people differently and to engage with their financiers to maximise profits and cash flow.”

“In an increasingly competitive environment, Dhun and Stuart will bring significant retail expertise for the benefit of our clients.”

Ms Karai and Mr Haughey started with the firm on 15 March 2017.

Grant Thornton also recently launched a debt advisory specialist arm, recruiting Daniel Mastroianni to head it up.