James Solomons from EFS Strategic has been appointed head of accounting for Xero in Australia while Melanie Power, the director of Power Finance, will become head of bookkeeping.
Xero Australia managing director, Chris Ridd, said the appointment of Mr Solomons and Ms Power would give Xero customers a direct line into the company to help shape its future.
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“We know our customers aren’t shy in sharing their views, so having James and Melanie on board will provide an easy and structured way of getting those views heard,” Mr Ridd said.
“We want to constantly be in tune with what accountants and bookkeepers need and want to make their jobs easier and more efficient. It’s what has set us apart from our competitors in the past and will continue to in the future.”
“Having James and Melanie on the team, two absolute experts in their field, will mean we don’t lose sight of that vision,” Mr Ridd said.
The appointments follow the establishment of the Xero Partner Advisory Council made up of 10 representatives from the accounting and bookkeeping professions who will meet with the Xero leadership team to provide feedback and guidance on strategic initiatives, product roadmap and investments that affect the accounting industry.
Mr Solomons said he is excited to be able to use his real-life industry experience to provide Xero feedback and help evolve the software for the better.
“I’ve already started rolling my sleeves up and can’t wait to get more involved,” Mr Solomons said.
The two positions are both part time, allowing Mr Solomons and Ms Power to keep a foot in both camps and continue to be in touch with their respective user groups.