Robin Zhang

Robin Zhang changed industries, and crossed the world doing it

Before joining Pitcher Partners Newcastle and Hunter, he spent years working in the education industry in China, moving through teaching and management roles. Over time, a curiosity about business and finance began pulling him in a new direction. For someone who had spent years helping others understand complex ideas, the leap made more sense than it might seem. 

“I became more interested in business, finance and how good advice can help people make better decisions,” he says. “That interest drew me into accounting, where I can combine technical knowledge with communication and client service.” 

Why Pitcher Partners

When Robin was weighing up his options, Pitcher Partners stood out for a specific reason: the combination of a strong national reputation and a local team that actually felt approachable. 

“PP has a strong reputation and a national network, but the Newcastle office still feels approachable and people-focused,” he says. 

The opportunity to work closely with managers and partners from early on, and to build his accounting career in a hands-on environment, sealed it. 

The shift in how he thinks

The most valuable thing Robin has taken from his time at Pitcher Partners so far is a change in how he approaches every task. Rather than simply following a process, he has started asking why the work matters and what it means for the person on the other side of it. 

“It is important to ask good questions, document things clearly, and consider the client’s situation rather than just following a process,” he says. “Learning this has changed the way I work day to day and helped me become more thoughtful and efficient.” 

Skills that travelled with him

One of the things that has surprised Robin most is how much his previous experience has continued to show up in his current work. The communication skills, the ability to explain complex things clearly, the understanding of how people think — all of it, developed over years in education, has transferred more directly than he expected. 

“My previous experience in teaching and management still helps me today, especially when communicating, explaining issues and understanding people,” he reflects. 

A culture worth settling into 

Robin describes the environment at Pitcher Partners as supportive, collaborative and accessible, a place where team members, managers and partners are genuinely available when guidance is needed. 

“What has kept me here is the feeling that I can continue to grow, take on more responsibility, and be supported by people who genuinely want to see me improve,” he says. 

Outside of work

Robin takes his community involvement seriously. He has joined the team at Ronald McDonald House to help prepare meals for children with cancer, and taken part in Spin for Kids, cycling to raise funds for families in need. 

Outside of work, family comes first. He recharges by spending time at home, tending to the house and garden, and playing basketball when he gets the chance. 

What’s next 

With his CA exams complete and full membership on the horizon, Robin is focused on deepening his technical skills and building stronger relationships with both clients and colleagues.

His advice to anyone just starting out is simple: stay curious, ask questions, take good notes, and always try to understand the reason behind the work.