Level 3/163 Eastern Rd,
South Melbourne VIC 3205
Our expert advisers are friendly and relaxed. Simplifying money matters is what they do best.
Whether you're getting started with a financial plan or starting again, we're here to help with the life-changing decisions.
With a fresh approach to financial wellness, our team is here to make you feel supported and in control.
We talk in simple, everyday language so you understand everything, all in a no pressure environment.
We rely on advice from professionals in all areas of our lives, our financial life is no different.
Choosing financial specialists to work with is a big decision and we want to make that easy for you by providing all the services you need in one place. Our experienced Financial Advisers and Lending Specialists are passionate about providing ongoing advice, education and support.
We started Choice Capital out of a desire to help more people make smarter financial decisions, to create richer livelihoods.
Meet your team
James Taylor
Managing DirectorChristian Ryan
DirectorPaul Leitzke
Director | Senior AdviserAmanda Hobbs
Director | Senior AdviserHamish Clark CFP®
Director | Senior AdviserNicholas Power
Director | General ManagerAngus Tyers
Partner | Senior AdviserAmy Murphy CFP®
Senior Financial AdviserMichael Farrugia
Senior Financial AdviserTrent Snell
Financial AdviserNic Carson
AssociateNicola Murray
AssociateKerry Keegan-Watson
Risk & CommunicationsJonathan Davis
Senior Risk AdviserMarc Rummel
Senior Risk AdviserLiam Larkins
Finance BrokerAdam Marcus
Finance BrokerNathan McLellan
Finance BrokerAndrew Matheson
Account ManagerRobert Bencic
Portfolio ManagerPeter Mavromatis PhD
Senior Investment ConsultantTom Elliott
Investment ConsultantMegan Stevens
CFO- CFP®
- Grad,Dip (financial planning)
- BBus (eco/finance)
I founded the financial planning arm of Choice Capital back in 2005 wanting to help and educate people to achieve their financial goals. My main focus now is on delivering a superior client experience, providing an enjoyable and stimulating environment for our team and guiding the strategic direction of the business. This is a fast-moving industry and I’m excited at the opportunities before us, beginning with our new client app, we’re always looking for ways to drive a better client experience.
This is a challenging but ultimately rewarding profession where people place their trust in us, and we work hard to ensure we repay that faith with financial certainty and peace of mind. The key to success is having a deep understanding of our clients’ ultimate goals and often helping them understand what those goals look like. This is achieved through asking the right questions, and actually listening to the answers!
Away from work, I’m generally still thinking about work – but that’s the price you pay for running a business! Aside from work, I’m generally training for the next endurance event. Having already completed the Melbourne Ironman, North Face 50km trail run and Three Peaks 235K bike ride, I’m always on the lookout for the next challenge both personally and professionally.
- BBus (Accounting & Financial Planning)
- Olympic Silver Medalist, Sydney 2000, Rowing
I co-founded the original Beulah team in 2008 and have been involved within the financial services industry for well over 20 years now. After a long working relationship with Choice Capital, merging the teams aligned perfectly with my vision to create a financial services hub that will make a positive difference to the lives of our clients.
My expertise is in investment and business structuring, investment markets and portfolio advice and I now spend much of my time growing the business and working with the team on our range of services and investment strategies.
Outside of work, I’m a family man and continue my love of rowing, AFL and cycling – I recently challenged myself on the Tour De France circuit.
- BBus (Accounting)
I started my career in accounting and tax, transitioning to financial advising in 1996. I provide my clients with a holistic approach, covering comprehensive advice across investments, super, tax planning, business succession, estate planning and risk management. I am passionate about working with my clients across all aspects of their finances, building long and rewarding friendships in the process.
In 2013 I merged my business, Sage Private Clients, with Beulah, and so was excited to then merge Beulah with Choice Capital in 2021. We can now offer our clients a broader range of services including lending advice.
I love the great outdoors and split my time between living in Melbourne with my wife, and working on my farm, where my pride and joy is Rex the ram. I am also still to be found on the football field every fortnight, playing super rules with Williamstown, riding my bike or picking up a good Thai takeaway.
- BBus
- Grad.Dip App Fin (Sec Inst)
I have been involved in the investment services industry for over 30 years, starting with the Nicholas family office gaining a comprehensive grounding in all things investment related.
Along with Christian Ryan, we founded Beulah in 2008, growing the business until we were ready to join up with Choice Capital in 2021. My expertise has been in providing portfolio advice to high net worth individuals, family groups and charitable groups.
Outside of work, it’s all about family and friends, our pets and weekend sport (as a spectator!). We split our time living in Williamstown and Point Lonsdale and can’t wait to be able to travel again.
- CFP®
- BBus (FPL)
- Aged Care Specialist
- Financial Adviser of the Year Finalist (2018 Young Leaders in Finance Awards)
Financial Advice is all about people – building and growing relationships and helping them make the most out of today and make a better tomorrow. For me, there is nothing more rewarding than being able to develop a relationship with a client, understand who they are and then taking them on that journey through our advisory relationship.
I listen to our clients to gain a strong understanding of their lifestyle, goals and needs. I then show them how to achieve dreams that they didn’t know were possible. Asking the right questions to uncover their personality and how they view money is critical to developing the right financial strategy for them, including all the tangible strategic benefits of minimising tax, maximising short and long term income and sustainably building or retaining wealth. From there it’s about maintaining the relationship and helping them stay on track to realise their goals in the long run.
Away from work, I love spending quality time with my wife and three daughters with our family and friends. When not at home, you’ll often find us at the cellar door of new wineries or craft breweries or staying active on long walks/hikes. Other than that, I’m hoping for another Dees AFL Premiership!
- BA
- BBus
- Grad.Dip App Fin
With a background as a Senior Adviser and General Manager, I have been involved in the financial services industry for over 15 years. With a focus on technology and superior business performance, I ensure that our staff are sufficiently supported and provided with an operational framework to deliver high-end services to our clients. I love all things operations and oversee all processes in the office to ensure everything runs smoothly and clients receive a frictionless experience.
Outside of work my wife & I are busy with our two beautiful children and love getting down to the beach at much as possible. When time permits (which isn’t often these days) you will also find me trying to master the game of golf with varying success.
- Grad.Dip (CA)
- BCom
- Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants (CAANZ)
Prior to becoming an Adviser at Choice Capital, I spent 5 years working extensively as a Chartered Accountant with both family offices and Big 4 accounting firms. I worked closely with families on their group tax structures, SMSFs and transition of wealth strategies which included advice on preferred restructuring and governance solutions (e.g. responsibilities of trustees or directors within a structure).
At Choice Capital, I focus on using these skills to best advise our high net worth clients on the building and protection of the wealth they have earned. I also work closely with our finance and wealth management team to advise on the best solutions for structuring, financing and asset selection in their wealth management strategies.
Outside of the office I participate in rowing and am still involved at the Melbourne University Boat Club. My wife and I recently had our second boy, whom I’ll ensure will also be an avid Demons supporter.
- BComm (finance & financial planning)
- CFP®
I pride myself on taking the time to listen to my clients and what is important to them. Growing up with three older brothers meant that I spent a lot of time listening, observing and fighting to be taken seriously. I believe it’s these skills that have assisted me in becoming a trusted adviser since I joined the team in 2010.
I love helping clients uncover their goals and then set them on the path towards achieving them. Whether it be saving to purchase a home, obtaining insurance to protect individuals and families or helping clients to plan for their retirement I am here for the journey. Throughout my time at Choice, I have been able to develop longstanding relationships with my clients and have taken great joy in watching them achieve their goals and seeing them through some important milestones and finally towards enjoying the retirement they have worked so hard to achieve. This has been the most rewarding part of my role.
Away from work I love spending quality time with my husband and our young family on our farm in Deniliquin NSW or relaxing beachside whenever we get the opportunity to travel.
I first became a financial adviser in 2011. My experience includes working for a big bank and financial services businesses. I've also run my own business and acted as a consultant to others.
This varied background has given me the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients. With a clear focus on every client's best interest, I most enjoys seeing genuine improvement in client outcomes through problem solving and strategic thinking.
My educational background began with a mathematics degree and most recently, my Masters in Applied Finance and Financial Planning.
Outside of work, I'm an active family man.
Trent Snell
Financial Adviser- BCom&Arts
- MFinPLan
I have always loved working with people. Before Choice, I spent 15 years at a large financial institution distributing investment, insurance and platform products to financial advisers. In this role, I helped financial advisers develop client strategies, with a particular focus on investment portfolio construction. I thoroughly enjoyed my successful career, winning numerous awards, including Business Development Manager of the Year. However, I always wanted to work directly with clients and see first-hand the life-changing impact sound financial advice can create. After completing my Master of Financial Planning, I made the move into private advice.
I believe great financial advice is more than just numbers, it is about listening, caring, trust and knowledge. These ingredients create a successful relationship, which is crucial when working with clients to achieve their goals. I have a particular interest in wealth creation and pre and post-retirement planning.
Studying and teaching karate since the age of 5, I'm a firm believer in the benefits that commitment, discipline and focusing on a goal can bring to all aspects of life!
Outside of work, my wife and I are kept busy with our son and daughter's sporting commitments, as well as spending quality time as a family, watching movies and taking our dog Roxy for a walk to the park with coffee in hand. I’m also a passionate Hawthorn supporter, but please don’t hold that against me!
- BBus(Acc)/BBus(Fin Planning)
- BCom
-
FAAA & SMSFA - member
Having graduated from university in 2021, I am at the forefront of the changing financial advice industry. I have the benefit of entering the industry at a time where the aim has transformed from selling products to adding value. At Choice Capital, I work closely alongside our senior advisers and other stakeholders to assess your personal situation, and provide strategic and tailored advice to ensure your goals and objectives are achieved.
I love nothing more than catching up with our clients after providing them with advice and seeing that advice actively help them achieve their goals and objectives. These are the moments when I know that I have chosen a great career.
Outside of work, you'll find me at the gym, on the bike, socialising with friends or cheering on my beloved Tigers.
- BCom (eco)
- BA
I joined Choice Capital in February 2021 after completing my Bachelor of Commerce/Arts at Monash University. Working in Client Services, I pride myself on providing the best service possible for our clients and taking care of the wider Choice team too. With a strong interest in financial planning and a desire to become an adviser in the future, I am thoroughly enjoying working with, and learning from, the financial planning team.
Like most of the team, in my spare time, I love to dine out with friends, bake for our team’s exclusive “chocolate club”, and go for long walks.
- Dip (Finance & Mortage Broking Management)
I joined the Choice Capital family way back in 2009 and work across all areas of the business. As well as assisting clients with their home loan enquiries, I work alongside the operations team to take care of compliance, implement processes and deliver relevant client communications. Having previously been a lending specialist means I have the unique ability to see things from both a client’s and an adviser’s point of view. This inspires me to continue looking for ways to improve the Choice experience as times change.
I’m also extremely passionate about pioneering our giving-back efforts and keeping the team going in the afternoon with “I can’t believe this is vegan” treats. I have an obsession with cushions, candles and plants so don’t be surprised to see new nicknacks each time you visit the office.
Although originally from London, Australia has been home since arriving on honeymoon in 2007 and never leaving! Outside of the office, you’ll find me managing my beautiful daughter’s basketball team, refurbishing abandoned furniture and, like any true Melbournian, sampling all of the delicious food, coffee, wine and gin Victoria has to offer!
- Dip (financial planning)
- BBus (finance)
After graduating from Deakin University I obtained a Graduate Management position at one of the top 4 Australian Banks, enjoying 13 years’ experience in Senior Manager and Adviser roles.
From here I found my passion In insurance and now have more than 20 years’ experience advising clients on Income Protection, Trauma and Life Cover as well the provision of tax effective personalised solutions and policy ownership.
I also specialise in business succession advice for private business owners and executives.
I have an intimate understanding of the insurance industry and the ability to recommend appropriate products based on quality of contract and competitive premium whilst negotiating optimal outcomes for our clients.
Beyond the development of your risk management strategies, I will assist should you or your family have the need to claim, assistance that is vital should you suffer a major illness or injury
- Grad,Dip (financial planning)
- Tax Financial Adviser
- SMSF Specialist Accredited
- Member of Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA)
I have been working in the Financial Planning and Risk Insurance industrysince 2007, specifically complementing financial strategy with structures designed to protect the client in the unfortunate event of illness or injury.
My approach is to involve not only the client but also other professionals working with the client to customise a risk management plan. Over the years I have helped clients restructure their insurances as circumstances change in their lives, with a strong focus on product quality and affordability, advice on the correct tax structure to maximise benefits as well as claims, providing support and advice during these challenging periods.
Outside of work, Josephine and I have two boys, Michael, and Jack, who keep us busy. We love the sun, sand, and water, travelling with the kids and introducing them to new adventures, and have a great appreciation for keeping a balanced life.
- Dip. FMBM
- MFAA Member
I am passionate about giving people the knowledge and tools to achieve their personal goals. Nothing is better than helping others meet the aspirations that they once believed were only dreams. I find immense fulfillment and pride in being part of their journey. I am always looking to be better than I was yesterday in all aspects of my life. I endeavour to be a person our clients can rely on, who will roll up their sleeves and get to work. At my core, I value effort and commitment above all else.
I am a bit of an old soul at heart, and I love nothing more than spending a night in with a warm cup of tea and my cats. As a former athlete, I relish the chance to engage in a bit of friendly competition through sports and board games. You will often find me exploring nature with my beautiful little family, whether it be hiking, camping, or fishing.
I am an experienced finance broker, driven by developing optimal lending structures to assist clients with their residential & commercial property strategies which may include purchasing a home or investment property, refinancing an existing asset, or releasing equity for alternative purposes.
Throughout my career I have successfully assisted numerous types of clients ranging from MEDICO & professional services to complex self-employed and first-home buyers. My previous roles in the commercial property sector exposed me to multiple large-scale property transactions through which I developed a keen ability to analyse and evaluate numerous types of property strategies, as well as gain a strong understanding of the various property sectors.
- Dip. FMBM
- MFAA Member
Nothing motivates me more than an opportunity to change someone’s life and help them achieve financial liberty. Working with open-minded people both within the team and clients is why I come to work every day. Whether it’s a simple or complex scenario, I, along with our superstar team, always go above and beyond to achieve each clients’ ultimate goal whilst delivering a 5-star experience. People are getting busier so it’s important our clients have a team in their corner to do all the leg work and provide expert advice to enable them to focus on what matters most, without any financial stress.
I take the time to truly understand what it is my clients are trying to achieve. I focus on developing rapport to ensure utmost comfort when discussing finance needs. With 5 years of experience, I provide education to my clients, along with a tailored finance solution that ticks all the boxes. Whether clients are looking for residential or commercial finance, purchasing property or refinancing, I’ll research the suitable options for them and provide a loan proposal in terms we can all understand, explaining the ‘why’ and not just the ‘what’.
In winter you’ll find me playing AFL, and I try my best to keep fit and healthy all year round. I grew up in Maribyrnong, but am now a city kid after moving to St Kilda East in 2019. I love to socialise and spend as much time as I can with family and friends, whether it’s a beer at the pub or a walk/run on a nice day. In my spare time, I also like to learn about earth and the solar system – while also educating myself about ways to preserve our forests and oceans, and the animals who live in them!
I have been part of the original Beulah team since 2008 and am responsible for overseeing investment administration, as well as being the team’s go-to handyman! I previously had over 14 years of experience at a major law firm which gave me a strong understanding of dealing with the administration of trusts and estates. I thoroughly enjoy working at Choice Capital and go out of my way to ensure our client’s accounts are managed proactively and to support the wealth management team in any way I can.
Outside of the office my wife and three children keep me busy and I love the beach, Valiants and Collingwood (not necessarily in that order!)
Robert Bencic
Portfolio ManagerWith over 15 years of experience working within the investment broking industry, funds management and custodian services, I have extensive knowledge of investment markets and research skills. I provide comprehensive due diligence and investment analysis on key companies within the investment universe.
For more information on our investment arm, please visit beulahcapital.com
- BCom (Hons)
- MEc (Hons)
- Doctor of Philosophy
I’m an investment professional with over 20 years of experience across the financial market spectrum and was Chief Investment Officer at Beulah Capital until March 2017. After a hiatus exploring the globe, I returned to the wider Choice Capital group in April 2019 in a consultancy role. Prior to this, my positions included Macro Strategist and Head of Research at Investorfirst Ltd and Senior Investment Analyst and General Manager – Equities Research at IWL Ltd (Commsec). I was also Research Fellow at the Centre of Policy Studies, where I made key contributions to forecast validation of USAGE – a dynamic computable general equilibrium model of the US economy.
In my spare time, I enjoy swimming and lifting weights. I hold a national powerlifting record at ‘under 90kg raw’ in the open division and am always up for a hit of tennis or a kick of the footy. I like to keep the office entertained with impersonations of sporting commentators and love economics almost as much as I hate politics. I’m family-oriented and love travelling to all parts of the globe – but the Mediterranean holds a special place in my heart.
- BCom
- MA (Oxford)
- 3AW Drive Presentor
With over 25 years of experience in finance and investment markets, I have been a part of creating many of the team’s unique investment processes. As a primary member of the Investment Committee, I bring a strong history of managing funds under advice and continue to run certain strategies. Prior to joining our Investment arm, Beulah Capital, I was a co-founder and Managing Director of MM&E Capital, a Melbourne based hedge fund where I successfully managed the day to day affairs of both the company and its various funds under management. Prior to this, I was an Executive Director of investment bank Flinders Capital Limited which specialised in both listed and unlisted equity investments.
For more information on our investment arm, please visit beulahcapital.com
I’ve worked at Choice Capital pretty much since time began and feel like a trusted member of the family. My role varies daily and continues to challenge and improve my knowledge base, which is great. Working on a part-time basis offers me a great work/life balance, however, I do genuinely enjoy working with the team in the office.
I pride myself on keeping on top of the constant changes to tax, accounting and payroll regulations to ensure we are compliant and the business continues to tick along like a well-oiled machine. Despite my friendly and generous nature, I’m also straight down the line when it comes to important business issues, which helps when keeping the Directors in line!
I was born and raised here in Melbourne, and like most of the team, I love food and cooking. I often make healthy “bliss balls” to keep everyone going in the afternoon. I enjoy trawling the newspapers and the net for reviews on the best new restaurants to try, but to be honest, as long as there’s a good glass of chardonnay and a friend or two to share the meal with; it really doesn’t matter where it is.
I also have a keen interest in fashion and homewares and keep up with current trends and unique styles by shopping at small local boutiques, which the Albert Park/South Melbourne area is perfect for! My two boys are my world and never fail to make me laugh and I strive to get them involved in a range of activities and life experiences. We spent all of 2015 in a remote village in France where they attended a very small french school while I worked remotely for Choice Capital. It was amazing, and we loved every moment.
Our process is designed to empower our clients to stay in control.
First Meeting
You talk, we listen. This is our chance to truly understand your needs and objectives and explain where we can add value. Can be face to face or via video conference.
Tailored Plan
Your team will research then present clear options for your consideration, with full transparency around any associated costs - integrity is a big deal to us.
Plan Implemented
Once you've decided on your best path, your team will ensure everything is taken care of and updating you along the way.
Staying on track
From regular updates to annual reviews, we're with you all the way to ensure you reach your goals even as things change. Your team is just a phone call away.
Corporate social responsibility is at the heart of who we are and goes beyond supporting our staff internally.
Our goal is to deliver positive, long-lasting impacts in the broader community, as well as reducing our carbon footprint. Our team are passionate about a number of causes and participate in regular fundraising activities.
“Kindness is a choice
Giving is a choice
Respect is a choice
Whatever choice
You make, makes you.
Choose wisely
Roy T. Bennet
Our team led “change by choice” program allows for all staff to nominate and vote on the social causes that matter most to them. Individual committees arrange quarterly events in our three main focus areas:
Wildlife & Climate Change
Human Welfare & Education
Health & Medical Research
We’re certainly not perfect, and we are well our industry isn’t, but we are committed to making the changes we CAN today while paving the way for bigger change tomorrow. From our choices in stationery to loo rolls. From cycling to recycling, we continue to look for ways we can help protect Planet A.
Check our blog and social media pages to learn more about how we’ve recently helped and our upcoming events.
We love it when our clients are as passionate as us about giving back to the community. Look out for more information in our newsletters and on our social media pages on ways you can help too.
Choice Capital is located in the heart of South Melbourne.
Your first consultation with a financial adviser is free and lending services can generally be provided without charge. We’re here to answer any questions you might have about working with us and there are absolutely no strings attached.