Remarkable Regional Business – Episode 34

Guest: Chris Harrington

Business Name: Strategem

Website: https://www.strategem.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-harrington-1a95a8103

Topics Covered

/ What is Strategem? A 90-Year Legacy with a Modern Twist

Chris shares the origins of Strategem, a financial services business founded in 1932. He explains how the business evolved from a traditional accounting firm to a two-division structure offering both accounting and investment services under one roof.

/ The Dual Engine: Accounting and Investment Services

Strategem operates with two licensed arms – business services (tax, accounting) and investment services (financial planning, superannuation, aged care). Chris outlines how these operate independently but are strategically integrated for client benefit.

/ Flexible Work Models and 9-to-3 Shifts

To attract and retain great talent, Strategem has embraced flexibility – including 9-to-3 roles, part-time contracts, and remote work. Chris talks about how these structures help employees stay engaged while meeting client demands.

/ Building Careers, Not Just Jobs

Chris discusses the firm’s approach to staff development – encouraging team members to define their own career goals, and providing growth paths through mentorship, training, and hands-on learning opportunities.

/ From Shoebox to Strategy: Evolution in Client Services

The business has seen dramatic changes – from manual ledger books to automated cloud accounting. But one thing remains: the role of the accountant as a trusted advisor. Chris unpacks how Strategem supports clients through all stages of life and business.

/ Generational Clients and Interlinked Financial Journeys

Strategem has served multiple generations of families – offering cradle-to-retirement services. Chris shares how intergenerational wealth planning and aged care services are growing priorities for the firm.

/ Bendigo to Collins Street: A Regional Business with City Reach

While proudly headquartered in Bendigo, Strategem has expanded with a Melbourne office and clients across Australia. Chris explains how a regional culture of personal service has become a point of difference in metropolitan markets.

/ The Strategem Community Foundation: Giving Back with Impact

Chris shares the story of their community foundation, which provides annual grants, targeted donations, and supports local causes – from literacy programs to hospice equipment – while involving team members through volunteering.

/ Leadership Lessons: Sustainable Performance and Calm Under Pressure

Managing partner since 2010, Chris reflects on leading through stressful deadlines and complex workloads. He emphasises the importance of approachable leadership, emotional resilience and creating a culture of trust and accountability.

/ A Career Rooted in Business Families

Growing up around small businesses, Chris always saw the behind-the-scenes pressures of entrepreneurship. That perspective informs his client relationships today – bringing empathy and practical advice to business owners.

References

• Strategem – https://www.strategem.com.au


• Australian Financial Services License (AFSL) – https://asic.gov.au


• Strategem Community Foundation – https://strategem.com.au/strategem-community-foundation-grant


• Riding for the Disabled - https://www.rda.org.au/


• Reading Out of Poverty – https://roop.org.au