Embark Accounting About Us

Jared has a passion for helping people in business, and assisting them to get the most out of their situation. He has a focus on not just looking at the end result, but making sure everyone understands the numbers and how they can use this information to make better decisions. He loves working with clients to guide them on their journey, and enjoys the collaboration with stakeholders to help them achieve success.

Jared grew up in Oamaru and moved to Dunedin to study. He joined a well known multinational CA firm based in Dunedin where he learned his trade and progressed through to Senior Manager. After 7 years, he undertook his OE to London, not only to travel but to develop and add to his existing skill set by working in some large international corporations.

Having gained valuable knowledge and experience (and realising that Dunedin is hard to beat), he returned home and started building his client base. Taking his 10+ years experience, he took the next step starting his own accounting practice. Jared would love to hear from you to work through how he can help. 

Natasha grew up in Auckland but wanted to study away from home and the scarfie life in Dunedin had a strong pull. Having spent four years here, she soon realised what the city has to offer and was keen to stay. 

Having worked in other firms, she joined Embark, bringing a wide breadth of knowledge with her. A keen Xero fan, she is interested in systems and ensuring that our clients are utilising the tools they have available to them.

Natasha will assist Embark clients with annual accounts, GST, and other tax-related queries along with Xero training and streamlining their systems.   

Joanne is a Dunedin local who spent time overseas before returning home and building a career in administration within the education sector. After nearly ten years working in schools, she was ready for a new challenge and made the move into the accounting industry.

As Practice Manager at Embark, Joanne plays a key role in keeping the business running smoothly behind the scenes. She oversees client onboarding, compliance processes, and day-to-day operations, helping ensure both the team and clients have a seamless experience. With a strong focus on organisation and efficiency, she helps Embark maintain high standards across all areas of the practice.

Joanne also has experience in payroll and regularly liaises with government agencies on behalf of clients, helping save them time and reduce the stress of dealing with compliance and administration.

Natasha joined Embark after experiencing firsthand the value of having a supportive, relationship-focused accounting team behind her own business journey.

After being a client of Embark, she loved the approach and culture so much that she decided to come on board herself. With a strong background in administration and client support, Natasha brings warmth, organisation, and a genuine people-first approach to the team.

She enjoys helping clients feel welcome and supported, and plays an important role in keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes at Embark.

Shelford brings a practical, down-to-earth approach to working with clients. Originally trained as an electrician, he has firsthand experience in the construction industry and understands the day-to-day realities of running a business on the ground.

Currently completing his Chartered Accountant qualification, Shelford is passionate about helping people better understand their numbers and use them to make confident, informed decisions. He enjoys building strong relationships with clients and working alongside them to find practical solutions that support their goals.

With a unique combination of trade experience and accounting knowledge, Shelford brings a real-world perspective to the Embark team and is committed to helping clients grow and succeed.