Leading through crisis

Adrian Rasmussen • March 31, 2020

The BMO Partners don’t know I’m writing this. As we all grapple with the impact of COVID-19, I wanted to share on behalf of our team how the Partners at BMO have gone about leading our team through the ever-evolving situation.

Keep calm

We have been through enormous changes in our office over the past year. We are transitioning to a new software package for our whole operation which includes running trials, intensive training and tweaking software to meet our needs. On top of that we had the impact of the drought which has a very real impact on our business – not just financially but emotionally, as we work closely with clients to support them through it. Throw a global pandemic on top of that, and it’s possible you’d see cracks.  There has been frustration at times, but through it all there has been a sense of calm.  Just one day at a time. If we take two steps forward, and one step back, we’ll still moving forward. But the resolve of the Partners to remain calm and work systematically and compassionately through each decision has been impressive/extraordinary/inspiring/first class/remarkable.

Humanity

BMO has always had a people-first approach and it’s at times like these where you see it shine. The partners, while trying to continue business as usual and manage the logistics of moving a 50-strong team to home offices, kept checking in on their team and clients.  Phoning elderly clients to reassure them that they don’t need to come in to sign papers, we’d find another way. Brainstorming resilience strategies for small business clients who were about to be forced to shut their doors. Every call has been heart breaking, but they kept doing it.

Generosity

This will have a considerable impact on the business, yet the Partners continue to put their team first.  Early on, any team members who were feeling uncertainty about being in the office due to their own underlying health issues were immediately given the option to work from home. Support has been offered to team members both in terms of practical measures and emotional support.

Adaptability

Part of our vision has always been to be nimble. The partners think outside the square and adapt quickly to changing environments, legislation and client needs.  This pandemic is requiring our usual version of ‘nimble’ to be on steroids. A senior team member has been designated to focus on government announcements including stimulus packages and support, creating detailed information and daily training for our team to ensure our clients are provided with current packages available to them.  All this is in addition to continuing to deliver tax compliance work that still needs be done, while arranging new office logistics.

Clear communication and humour

Mental noise in high-stress situations reduces the ability to process information. The partners have been careful to deliver honest, clear and concise updates on where we are at with our transition to remote work and what’s next. We’ve also been sending around fun photos and light hearted reflections on how our work-at-home transitions are going. Having a laugh has always been a part of our values and has continued to help us through this time.

Leading through crisis is incredibly difficult, and BMO won’t get it all right that’s for sure. There are too many unknowns in this current situation. But if business leaders approach this situation with the fortitude and compassion of the BMO Partners, they’ll be doing the best they can.

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Adrian Rasmussen retires after decades supporting Regional Queensland

By BMO • June 30, 2026
After an incredible career dedicated to supporting regional businesses, farming families and rural communities, BMO Business Centre Partner Adrian Rasmussen will officially retire from the partnership effective 30 June 2026. For many across the Western Downs and beyond, Adrian has been far more than an accountant or advisor. Over decades in business, he has built trusted relationships grounded in honesty, loyalty and a genuine understanding of regional life and the people who live it. Adrian’s connection to the country and agriculture has always been at the heart of who he is. He has worked alongside generations of farming families and business owners through seasons of growth, challenge and change, becoming a steady and respected presence for clients, colleagues and the wider community alike. Reflecting on his time at BMO, Adrian said the relationships formed throughout his career have been among the most rewarding parts of the journey. “It has been a privilege to work with so many wonderful people over the years; not only clients, but colleagues and communities who have become lifelong friends,” Adrian said. “Regional communities are built on relationships, trust and supporting one another, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of that throughout my career.” BMO Business Centre Managing Partners Kelvin Tyler and Michelle McVeigh said Adrian’s contribution to both the business and the region would leave a lasting legacy. “Adrian has played an incredibly important role in shaping BMO into the business it is today,” they said. “His care for clients, commitment to regional communities and calm, practical approach have earned enormous respect across our industry and the communities we serve. While we will certainly miss having him in the office, we are excited for Adrian and his family as they enter this next chapter.” While stepping away from the partnership, Adrian is looking forward to spending more time with family, on the farm and enjoying a well-earned change of pace after many years dedicated to supporting others. Everyone at BMO Business Centre extends their sincere thanks to Adrian for his years of service, friendship and leadership, and wishes Adrian and his family all the very best for the future.

Your 30 June superannuation checklist

By Nikki Ashurst • June 4, 2026
Five easy ways to get more into your super fund before the end of the financial year.