We recently caught up with Sam Bird, Superannuation Team Manager, whose diverse professional background and experience play a crucial role at PPT.
Q: Can you share your background and where you are from?
A: I was born in Geelong and raised in Ocean Grove, then moved to Robinvale near Mildura during my mid-high school years. I graduated from the University of Ballarat in 2003 with a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting. After working in taxation accounting in Mildura for eight years and then for a healthcare provider for two years, I moved back to Ballarat around 2014. Before joining PPT in 2020, I worked at another accounting firm in Ballarat for five years.
Q: When did you join PPT?
A: I started at PPT in September 2020.
Q: What is your current role at PPT?
A: I am the Superannuation Team Manager and a Senior Accountant.
Q: What aspects of your role at PPT do you find most enjoyable?
A: The role is filled with constant challenges that I relish, such as leading my team and making key decisions. I appreciate the opportunities to interact frequently with a variety of people, including clients, team members, and other professionals like lawyers and bankers. The dynamic environment of superannuation keeps me constantly learning, especially with the use of the latest technology to process, interpret, and report data.
Q: Could you tell us about your professional experience before joining PPT?
A: Prior to PPT, I worked with accounting firms in Ballarat, Mildura, and Geelong. I also worked for Primary Health Care (Medicare Local) in Mildura.
Q: Are you involved in any community groups or sports clubs?
A: I have recently retired as a volunteer firefighter, having participated in several campaigns over the past 15 years, including the 2020 Black Saturday fires.
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
A: Outside of work, I keep active by lifting weights at a small powerlifting gym. I also enjoy camping, 4-wheel driving, and spending time with my four dogs and my partner, Cath.
Q: Where would you love to travel?
A: My dream travel destination is the Old Telegraph Track in Queensland.
Q: If you could have dinner with any five people, who would they be?
A: I would invite Joe Rogan (comedian), Robert Orberst (WSM strong man), Colter Wall (musician), Toby Price (dirtbike legend) and Graeme Cahill (4wd journalist).
Q: What are your current favourite TV shows, podcasts, or books?
A: I’m into action series for TV shows and recently finished “The Lioness” on Amazon. I also enjoy Australian comedy dramas like “Colin from Accounts.” A recent intriguing read for me was “CHAOS: Charles Manson, the CIA, and Secret History of the Sixties” by Tom O’Neill.
Q: What are you looking forward to most during the Christmas break?
A: I’m eagerly anticipating some sunshine and relaxation. I plan to take out the camper trailer to a sunny spot with a creek, where I can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the serenity.
