‘With a background in advising private and family enterprises on renewal, succession, and governance aligned with core values, I bring a deep understanding of leadership and sustainability. My experience as a NED Chair and Director for emerging enterprises allows me to guide leaders in navigating challenges, building strong foundations, and driving long-term success.’

With over four decades of experience as a Chartered Accountant and business advisor, Michael Fox has joined Vistage as a peer advisory Chair and executive mentor while maintaining his role as co-founder and Managing Director of KMT Partners, a strategic business advisory firm. Throughout his career, Michael has guided private and family enterprises through critical transitions, succession planning, and governance challenges. His background as a Chartered Tax Adviser and Trust & Estate Practitioner (TEP) has positioned him as an advisor to business owners and high-net-worth individuals seeking to build sustainable value while preserving their legacy.

Michael’s leadership extends beyond his own firm through his service as a Certified Chair with the Advisory Board Centre and through contributions to professional organisations including Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand, where he has held national and state committee roles. As Deputy Chair of STEP Australia (Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners) and a member of its Global Professional Development Committee, he has contributed to estate planning and wealth preservation practices internationally. His cross-industry experience spans professional services, finance, and family enterprises, giving him perspective on various business challenges.

What distinguishes Michael is his ability to help business leaders navigate complex transitions while remaining aligned with their core values. Having advised and transitioned numerous family businesses to the next generation, he understands the balance between business objectives and personal legacy. His approach combines strategic thinking with practical solutions, helping CEOs and business owners build foundations for long-term success. Michael’s involvement in community engagement—through Rotary Club participation, CEO Sleepout, and various professional development initiatives—reflects his commitment to developing emerging business leaders and contributing to the broader community.

Career highlights

• Co-founded and built KMT Partners into a leading Adelaide-based strategic business advisory firm, serving as Managing Director, and creating a successful exit strategy.
• Successfully guided multiple family businesses through intergenerational transitions, securing long-term financial stability for these enterprises.
• Structured and implemented multi-million-dollar asset protection and succession strategies for high-net-worth individuals and business owners.
• Appointed as the Chair of STEP Australia (Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners), Australian Asian education pilot creating the now essential tertiary alliances for education and influencing global best practices in family enterprise succession.
• Advanced to Fellow status with Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand after serving in national board and state committee roles.
• Earned designation as a Certified Chair with the Advisory Board Centre, validating expertise in governance and strategic direction.