Wilsons Advisory sets up shop in the wild west

Wilsons Advisory has announced it is expanding into Western Australia with the opening of a Perth-based office on 4 March to tap into the state’s “growing private wealth and corporate advisory market”.

With other long-standing Western Australian practices consolidating, the firm said it sees a “major opportunity” to move into the region.

“As the state’s economy continues to diversify, Wilsons Advisory is stepping in with sophisticated investment opportunities for high-net-worth investors and corporate clients across established sectors such as natural resources, as well as healthcare and life sciences, food and agribusiness, diversified financials and technology,” the firm said.

Heading up the operation is former managing director and head of institutional sales at Euroz Hartleys, Rob Black, who will oversee private wealth advisory, institutional sales and corporate advisory in Western Australia, reporting directly to Wilsons Advisory chief executive Brad Gale.

In addition to strengthening its mining capabilities in Western Australia, Wilsons said it is leveraging its expertise to target key growth sectors such as healthcare and life sciences, food and agribusiness, diversified financials and technology.

“We want to be more than just another player in resources. WA’s economy is shifting, and Wilsons Advisory is perfectly placed to support corporate clients beyond the traditional sectors,” Black said.

“We have a deep pool of high-net-worth investors looking for more than just resource sector opportunities. We’re here to provide access to sophisticated investment solutions that align with where the state’s economy is heading.”

Highlighting its extensive local knowledge, Wilsons noted that John Prendiville, the firm’s chair, comes from one of Perth’s most influential corporate families; senior executive Jon Gidney is a Perth native, while the CEO previously led JBWere in Western Australia, “further enhancing the firm’s offering”.

Black said: “Wilsons Advisory isn’t just moving into WA – we’re led by people who know this market inside out and we’re bringing local knowledge, national reach and a fresh approach to investment and corporate finance.”

Speaking on the move into WA and Black’s appointment, Gale suggested that an increased demand for high-quality, tailored investment and financial advice in the region was a driving factor behind the expansion.

“With Rob’s leadership, we’re well-positioned to meet this demand and establish a strong presence,” the CEO said.