After nearly two decades with HLB Mann Judd Perth, David Prescott was promoted to Partner in the firm’s Business Advisory Services division in January 2026. David first joined the firm as a cadet in 2007, building his career with the firm over many years.
David works with a broad range of private and corporate clients, with particular experience advising businesses through growth, change and complex financial matters. In this Q&A, he reflects on his career journey, how the profession has evolved, and why mentoring the next generation of accountants remains an important part of his role.
You joined HLB Mann Judd as a cadet in 2007 and were promoted to Partner earlier this year. What stands out most about your journey with the firm?
It’s been a fulfilling journey, but one that’s gone very quickly. When I joined as a cadet, I was studying my Commerce degree and getting my first real exposure to the profession. At that stage you’re really just trying to learn as much as possible and build your technical foundations. Looking back, what stands out most is the number of people who supported me. I’ve been fortunate to work with great mentors and colleagues who were always willing to help me develop. The culture at HLB has always been very supportive, which made a huge difference.
Being promoted to Partner earlier this year was a very proud moment. It represents many years of learning and development, but it’s also about continuing to contribute to the firm and supporting the next generation of professionals.
What originally attracted you to accounting as a career?
Accounting was actually one of my strongest subjects at school, so studying Commerce with a major in Accounting felt like a natural path. What really appealed to me about the profession was the combination of technical knowledge, problem solving and building relationships with colleagues and clients.
As you progress in your career, you realise that accounting isn’t just about numbers. A lot of the work we do is about helping people make decisions, solve problems and navigate challenges in their businesses and personal financial lives.
What types of clients do you work with today?
I work with a wide range of clients including large and listed companies, small to medium-sized businesses, investment entities and high-net-worth individuals.
A number of my larger clients operate in the building and construction industry, which can be heavily influenced by changing economic conditions and market cycles. During periods of uncertainty, it becomes even more important for businesses to have good advice and support around financial and taxation matters. Each client is different, which is what keeps the work interesting.
What do you enjoy most about working with clients?
I enjoy building long-term relationships and helping clients navigate complex issues. The Australian taxation system can be challenging, and businesses and individuals often face a range of financial and regulatory considerations.
Being able to work alongside clients and help them find practical solutions is very rewarding. Over time you get to understand their businesses, their goals and the challenges they face, which allows you to provide advice that helps them move forward.
How do you see the accounting profession evolving in the coming years?
The profession has already changed significantly over the past decade, particularly with the adoption of new technologies and digital platforms. Looking ahead, I think the role of advisers will continue to evolve towards providing more strategic and forward-looking advice. While technology can automate certain processes, the value of trusted advice, judgement and experience remains very important. Clients still want to work with advisers who understand them and their needs, and who can guide them through important financial and business matters.
Why is mentoring younger accountants important to you?
Watching younger accountants develop their skills and grow in confidence is something I find incredibly rewarding. Everyone starts somewhere, and I was fortunate to have mentors who invested time in helping me early in my career.
Being a Partner means leading by example and supporting the development of the team. Helping younger professionals build their technical knowledge and confidence is an important part of that. Seeing them progress in their careers and helping guide them along the way is something I take a lot of pride in.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career in accounting?
Focus on building strong relationships and be willing to learn. Technical skills are obviously important, but the ability to communicate well and work collaboratively is equally valuable. I would also encourage younger professionals to seek out mentors and take advantage of opportunities to learn from the more experienced colleagues around them. Being open to new experiences and staying adaptable will help you build a rewarding career.
Outside of work, how do you like to spend your time?
Outside the office I enjoy spending time with my wife, friends and family, and getting in the occasional round of golf. Living in Perth makes it easy to get outdoors, so coastal walks and catching up over coffee are always a good way to unwind. Like most people in the profession, it’s important to maintain a good balance outside of work.
This article was first published in the Winter 2026 issue of HLB Mann Judd Perth’s Client Alert.