Client Story
Stephen Coulter, Director - Coulter Advisory
Specialist Support for a Specialist Business
Running a specialised engineering consultancy comes with complex demands — but for Stephen Coulter, having Cotchy by his side has made all the difference. With streamlined compliance and proactive support, Cotchy handles the financial admin so Coulter Advisory can stay focused on delivering expert technical advice to clients.
Engineering Confidence from the Ground Up
Coulter Advisory Pty Ltd is a small professional engineering consultancy providing specialist advice on highly regulated environments — including laboratories, pharmacies, hospitals, advanced manufacturing, and pharmaceutical manufacturing sectors. Since launching in 2018, the firm has carved out a reputation for providing independent expert, compliance-focused service in complex highly regulated industries.
But like many small business owners, Stephen Coulter found the early years came with more than just technical demands — managing finances, regulatory requirements, and systems setup quickly became overwhelming.
“Starting a small business is a lot! Setting up systems, generating income, managing regulatory requirements, and handling a whole raft of other things… As I regularly say: ‘Great Engineer, lousy Businessman!’ Having a trusted partner to handle the essential financial responsibilities — while supporting my financial independence and stepping in when needed — has been a real lifesaver on my business journey.”
A Bookkeeper’s Recommendation That Paid Off
Stephen came to Cotchy after a trusted bookkeeper suggested a switch would better suit his growing business. Along with the move came a change in accounting systems — one that Cotchy handled seamlessly.
“I transferred my business and personal affairs to Cotchy based on the recommendation of a bookkeeper who had previously helped me. She felt that Cotchy would be a better fit for the needs of my business. As part of the transition, I also changed from one financial accounting package to an alternative package which came with some teething issues — however, nothing has been a problem for the Cotchy team, who are always available to provide local support.”
Structured Support and Peace of Mind
In the early stages of Coulter Advisory, regular check-ins helped keep the business on track and ensured it met all financial and regulatory deadlines. Now, with the business well established, Stephen enjoys the peace of mind that comes from automation, routine monitoring, and fast access to advice.
“In the early days, just knowing that everything was on track was reassuring. Routine meetings were used to ensure the business continued to operate well and that Coulter Advisory Pty Ltd continued to meet its regulatory obligations.”
“Now that the business is reasonably well established, I really appreciate that almost everything is automated — meaning I don’t need to worry about missing financial milestones and obligations. My biggest worries in the past were about paying myself too much super or missing SGT deadlines and getting fined.”
“I also really appreciate that I always have direct access to the staff that intimately know my business and know that they are available to assist at any time. Every year I have a face-to-face meeting to run through the financial health of the business with my advisor at Cotchy, who is always very encouraging.”
Consistency That Builds Trust
One of the most valuable aspects of the relationship for Stephen is Cotchy’s long-term commitment to continuity and care.
“I have had the pleasure of having the same advisor for 6 years now. I really appreciate the continuity and the availability of the staff and the fact that nothing is too much of a hassle for them.”
Stephen, Would You Recommend Cotchy to Others?
“I have established my business on being honest, reliable and reputable while also being available to my clients. I feel that Cotchy really aligns with those same values as well as providing as much or as little support as required to ensure that the business continues to run smoothly. I would recommend Cotchy without reservation.”
Want to learn more about Coulter Advisory?
Visit www.coulteradvisory.com.au to explore the specialist engineering consultancy services.