Jeremy ‘excels’ in finance career with Resthaven

Crunching numbers is much more meaningful when working in the not-for-profit aged care sector, according to Jeremy Ong, Manager Finance at Resthaven.

With a career originally destined for small firm and tax accounting, a twist of fate 20 years ago led Jeremy to not-for-profit finance, and he hasn’t looked back!

Jeremy explains, ‘After finishing high school in Malaysia, I ventured to Australia to complete my tertiary education, studying a Bachelor of Economics and majoring in accounting at Adelaide University.’

‘Once I completed university, I worked for a small firm for eight years as a tax accountant, before moving to commerce, working with manufacturing and engineering firms for a few years.’

‘Unfortunately, the engineering firm I worked at went into liquidation, so I had to look for another job.’

This career break ended up being the silver lining Jeremy needed — an opportunity to forge a finance career in the not-for-profit aged care sector, which he says was ‘The best career move I could’ve made.’

Jeremy started with Resthaven in 2015, in the Head Office. Initially starting in a part-time capacity, his role quickly progressed into a full-time position.

‘An average day for me is varied and busy, including tasks such as preparing financial reports, maintaining and updating the pricing of accommodation and services, and improving our financial systems.’

‘Occasionally, I also liaise with customers about the finances involved with the services we provide.’

Now, after more than two decades working in the sector, Jeremy says, ‘If there’s one thing that working in not-for-profit aged care has taught me — it’s that people work and live their values.’

He explains, ‘When I first started working in not-for-profit finance, I observed a noticeable difference in the work culture.’

‘My previous jobs had been money-minded and profit-driven, so working this new culture was a welcome mindset shift. Resthaven’s values of trust, dignity, and choice strongly align with my personal values — integrity, empathy, and respect.’

‘I thrive in my role because I find a lot of joy in the work that I do. My colleagues and I appreciate each other’s hard work — I’m valued here at Resthaven.’

‘A lot of my work is behind the scenes, but at the end of the day, I always look at the big picture and can see that I’m making a difference. Indirectly, I add value to someone’s life, enhancing their lifestyle and welfare.’

‘Crunching numbers is the same everywhere, but here at Resthaven, my job has meaning.’

‘It might be a little cheesy, but I think Mark Twain really said it best with his quote: “Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”’

We whole-heartedly agree, Jeremy!

Resthaven employs more than 3,000 staff across 40 locations in South Australia — open the door to your future career today.