
Baumgartners’ James Ridley Promoted to Audit Partner
Baumgartners is pleased to announce the promotion of James Ridley to Audit Partner, effective 1 July 2025.
James joined the firm in May 2023 and brings over 25 years of experience in audit, consulting and transaction services across Australia, the UK and the US. He has worked extensively with owner-operated businesses, partnerships, large proprietary companies and small-cap ASX-listed entities, with audit experience spanning sectors including manufacturing, retail, logistics, mining, financial services and government.
James has also developed deep expertise in litigation support, including forensic accounting, fraud investigations, and business valuations for business sales, listings, family estates and family law expert witness engagements.
In his role as Audit Partner, James will continue to lead Baumgartners’ audit division and play a key role in supporting the firm’s professional capabilities and client service objectives.
Managing Partner Aaron Fitchett commented:
“James’ promotion is a recognition of his extensive experience and dedication to high-quality client outcomes. His leadership has already made a strong impact within our team and we look forward to what’s next for Baumgartners’ audit division under his guidance.”
James is a Chartered Accountant and Registered Company Auditor.
He began his career with KPMG in the UK before moving to Australia in 2000. His prior experience as CEO of a Registered Training Organisation has also equipped him valuable insight into the pressures business leaders face, which he integrates into his audit approach. Read full profile here: https://www.baumgartners.com.au/people/ridley-james
About Baumgartners Audit, Assurance and Risk Management
Our team understands that each business is different. We tailor our audit approach to suit your unique challenges, going beyond compliance to add real value, solve critical issues and improve business results. We provide a full range of audit and assurance services, including financial statement audits, accounting standards advice, special purpose audits, risk assessments and internal control reviews. Our dedicated specialists maintain the highest professional standards, supporting decision makers with robust, independent audits that build confidence and deliver meaningful insights. Read more at https://www.baumgartners.com.au/audit
End of release.
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For further information, please contact:
Aaron Fitchett, Managing Partner
info@baumgartners.com.au
03 9851 9000
Author
Aaron Fitchett
Managing Partner
Aaron is the Managing Partner of Baumgartners. He specialises in complex tax matters, is a Chartered Tax Adviser with over 25 years’ experience advising private and corporate clients on a wide range of tax and commercial matters. Aaron also represents clients in disputes with the Australian Tax Office. Aaron holds a Bachelor of Taxation and Master of Taxation from UNSW and is an active member of the Taxation Institute of Australia.
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