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Steve Southon
Chief Tax Officer at National Australia Bank
Professional Background
Steve Southon is a distinguished professional with a wealth of experience in the field of taxation, finance, and corporate governance. Currently serving as the Chief Tax Officer at the National Australia Bank (NAB), Steve has dedicated over two decades to advancing the financial services sector through his expertise in taxation strategies and management. His career has seen him navigate various significant positions within NAB, showcasing his commitment to excellence and leadership in the financial domain.
Prior to his current role, Steve's career trajectory included positions such as Senior Taxation Manager and Director of Group Balance Sheet Transactions at NAB. His role as Director of Structured Transactions provided him with robust experience in complex financial dealings, contributing to NAB's strategic success. Steve's tenure at NAB reflects not only his adaptability but also his in-depth knowledge of the financial landscape in Australia.
Before joining NAB, Steve took on key roles at esteemed organizations like Rabobank Australia, where he was an Associate Director of Structured Finance, and at Ernst & Young, where he honed his skills as a Senior Manager. His career also includes valuable experience as a Tax Manager at AGL and various consultancy roles at PwC, Greenwoods & Freehills, and Sutherland Reid & Farrar, where he developed a portfolio of best practices in tax consultancy and management.
Education and Achievements
Steve's academic background is extensive and impressive. He began his educational journey by studying for the Chartered Accountant designation at the Institute of Chartered Accountants, laying a solid foundation for his future endeavors in finance and accounting.
He further expanded his knowledge base with an LLB (Bachelor of Laws) from the University of New England (AU), coupled with further legal studies culminating in a Master of Laws (LLM) at the University of Sydney. This legal acumen is a unique asset in the field of taxation, as it equips him with an understanding of the legal frameworks that govern taxation laws in Australia.
Additionally, Steve pursued advanced studies in taxation with a Master of Taxation (M Tax) at the University of Sydney, complementing his Bachelor of Financial Administration degree with a focus on Accounting and Finance from the same university. This combination of degrees not only showcases his commitment to lifelong learning but also provides him with a comprehensive view of both the financial and legal landscapes critical for effective tax management.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his illustrious career, Steve Southon has consistently been recognized for his contributions to the field of taxation and finance. His leadership roles at NAB have seen him implement innovative tax strategies that have directly influenced the bank's overall financial performance. He is known for his strategic thinking and ability to navigate the complex regulatory environment that governs financial institutions in Australia.
His work has not only benefited NAB but has also set a standard within the industry for tax management best practices. His insights into structured finance and transactions have earned him the respect of peers and professionals within the financial services sector, making him a sought-after expert in taxation matters.
Steve’s involvement in high-level decision-making processes at NAB underscores his importance as a leader in the financial community. His ability to lead teams and projects while fostering collaboration and creativity is a testament to his managerial prowess. He continues to be an influential figure, mentoring the next generation of finance professionals and contributing to the ongoing dialogue surrounding taxation and financial regulation in Australia.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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