It was a huge privilege to count Francis as a colleague and a friend. During our time at Grant Thornton and beyond we kept in touch, caught up over a meal at the members club, where he would be welcomed with the warmth and respect he always showed others or a more relaxed quick catch up at Thai Square in the city.

It was always a joy to discuss his ideas and aspirations and he would provide me with challenge and wisdom. I worked with Francis as his HR contact and we would discuss how he could be the best leader he could be, he wanted to alway get the best out of his people and would always take on board feedback. I recall the coaching sessions on how to handle more delicate situations and when we caught up years later he would tell me - when I am in these situation I always stop and think ‘what would Rachael Bennett do?’ it as always a privilege to catch up.  

I recall his love for his family be that bumping into him at the local coop when he had popped to see his mum who lived near by or how he planned to provide for his family in the future through the values and principles that he held so dear.

Francis was a great man, who I am honoured to have known.