Meet the Partners.
Good advice doesn't come from one person.
It comes from bringing together the right experience, asking the right questions and taking the time to understand what matters most to every client.
Together, Paul Jones, Brad Whelan and Nick Ellingsen combine decades of experience across taxation, business advisory and commercial finance. While each partner brings different strengths to the business, they share the same approach - straightforward conversations, practical advice and a genuine commitment to helping clients make better business decisions.
For more than a decade, Cherry Black has built its reputation one relationship at a time. It's an approach that has seen many clients remain with the firm for years, relying on trusted advice that extends well beyond tax returns and compliance.
Because great accounting isn't just about knowing the numbers.
It's about understanding the people behind them.
Paul Jones CA
Partner
Paul believes accounting should be straightforward.
Business owners don't need more jargon or complicated advice. They need someone who'll take the time to understand what's happening, explain the options clearly and help them make informed decisions.
That's the approach Paul has taken throughout almost 20 years of working with small and medium-sized businesses, and it's the philosophy Cherry Black has been built on.
Whether he's helping a client navigate a complex restructure, solve a taxation issue or simply work through an important business decision, Paul's focus is always the same - provide practical advice that supports better outcomes over the long term.
Clients value Paul's calm, considered approach and his ability to make even the most technical conversations feel straightforward. He's not interested in overcomplicating things or impressing people with accounting terminology. He'd rather help clients understand their options and move forward with confidence.
Away from the office, Paul enjoys spending time with his wife, walking the dog, catching up with mates, following sport and planning the next travel adventure whenever time allows.
Brad Whelan CA
Partner
Brad believes the best advice is the advice that's given before important decisions are made.
With more than 20 years' experience in public practice, Brad has built his career helping small and medium-sized businesses look beyond compliance and focus on what's ahead. Rather than simply reporting on the past, he enjoys working proactively with business owners to understand what's happening in their business, identify opportunities and help them make informed decisions that support long-term growth.
As a CPA, Brad brings extensive experience across taxation, business advisory and financial management. His practical, measured approach helps clients cut through complexity, understand their options and move forward with confidence.
Brad joined Cherry Black after reconnecting with long-time friend and business partner Paul Jones. Having worked together more than 15 years ago, the opportunity to build a business around shared values and a common approach to client service was a natural fit.
Outside the office, Brad's greatest priority is his family. Whether it's spending time with his daughter as she grows and learns or simply enjoying family life, he values maintaining the balance between building a successful business and being present for the moments that matter most.
Nick Ellingsen CA
Partner
Nick joined Cherry Black in 2026, bringing extensive experience in accounting, taxation, business advisory and commercial finance. As a Chartered Accountant, he is passionate about helping businesses make better financial decisions - not just at tax time, but throughout every stage of their growth.
With a practical and commercially focused approach, Nick works closely with business owners to improve profitability, strengthen cash flow and identify opportunities for long-term success. His expertise extends beyond compliance, helping clients understand the bigger picture and make confident decisions that support their goals.
Nick has a particular strength in commercial and residential finance, providing clients with valuable insight into funding, business structures and financial strategy. He believes great accounting is about more than reporting numbers - it's about helping clients understand what those numbers mean and how they can be used to move their business forward.
Having known Cherry Black founder Paul Jones for many years, joining the partnership was a natural next step. Together with Paul and Brad, Nick shares a commitment to building long-term relationships, delivering practical advice and helping clients achieve meaningful financial outcomes.
Advice that looks beyond today.
Good accountants report on the past. Great accountants help you prepare for what's next.
Whether it's improving business performance, planning for growth, managing tax obligations or
preparing for retirement, we focus on helping you make decisions that create long-term value.
Because accounting isn't just about the numbers. It's about what you do with them.