Tributes have been paid to the CFO of one of Australia’s fastest growing tech companies, who previously worked in the UK.
Cameron Small, who worked for FinTech Shift, died of cancer last week at the age of 54.
Phil Adams, head of global technology group and co-head of UK corporate finance at Houlihan Lokey, described him as a ‘truly great colleague’.
“I had the privilege to work with him for six years when Cameron was Altium’s CFO from 2005 to 2011,” he wrote.
“Cameron was our first professional CFO and I remember it was a shock to the system when he first joined us from Credit Suisse.
“His professionalism and integrity were always at the forefront and I came to appreciate him hugely when I became CEO in 2007.
“He played a key role in helping the business navigate the financial crash always keeping laser focused on the old adage that cash is king.”
Adams recalled one piece of advice in particular that his former colleague gave him.
“He taught me one of business’s great lessons – it is easy to surround yourself with people who always agree with you but it is much better to surround yourself with people who challenge and look to improve the business in every way possible,” he recalled.
“He was a great family man and we kept in touch throughout the time since he returned to Australia in 2011.
“He never failed to reach out to wish us well as he saw the various milestones as the business progressed into a fully global M&A business.”
He’d previously worked at Nomura and PwC in London before joining Altium.
Mr Small returned to Australia from the UK in 2011 and spent nearly 10 years at Pepper Money, working as group CFO and group director.
Mario Rehayem, CEO of Pepper Money, said: “His passion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence were truly inspiring. Cameron was not only a valuable senior executive member but also a dear friend to many of us and he will be greatly missed.
“Personally, I will always remember Cameron for his positive attitude, his love for his family, and his willingness to go above and beyond to help others. His contributions to our team and the legacy he leaves behind will forever be cherished.”
Shift’s CEO Jamie Osborn said: “More than his professional achievements though he will be remembered for his exceptional character – unwavering principles, kindness, and his positive and uplifting spirit.”
The company also described him as ‘genuinely wonderful person who earned the admiration of many within our industry’.
Mr Small was married to Fiona and had two children.