Camellia CoreEngagement Process
How we work with private firms from initial conversation through advisory delivery — a clear, staged process for merger preparation and transition support.
How an engagement begins
Every advisory relationship at Camellia Core starts with a confidential conversation. There is no obligation, no sales presentation, and no standard pitch deck. We listen to your situation, ask questions about your firm’s ownership structure and timeline, and determine whether our advisory services are appropriate for your current stage.
If there is a fit, we issue a scoped proposal within five business days. The proposal defines deliverables, timeline, fee, and engagement terms. Work begins only after you accept the proposal and the engagement letter is signed.
Our five-stage process
Initial Conversation
A 45-minute call or meeting — in person at our Canberra office or by video — to understand your firm's situation. We discuss ownership structure, the reason you are considering a transaction, your timeline, and any advisers already involved. This conversation is confidential and free of charge.
Scoping & Proposal
Based on the initial conversation, we prepare a written proposal outlining the recommended engagement, deliverables, timeline, and fixed fee or day-rate structure. For Merger Readiness Reviews, this includes a document request list so you can begin gathering materials while the engagement letter is finalised.
On-site Briefing
Every engagement includes at least one on-site visit to your primary operating location. We meet with ownership, key management, and — where appropriate — board members. This visit establishes context that document review alone cannot provide: culture, informal decision-making patterns, and the relationships that will matter during a transaction.
Advisory Delivery
The core of the engagement: document review, stakeholder interviews, facilitated sessions, or weekly advisory calls depending on the service. We maintain regular communication throughout — you will never wonder what stage the work is at. Draft outputs are circulated for factual review before finalisation.
Handover & Follow-up
Final deliverables are presented to the board or ownership group. For readiness reviews, this includes a prioritised action plan. For transition advisory, this includes a 90-day integration summary. We remain available for a follow-up call within 30 days of engagement completion to address questions that arise as you act on our recommendations.
What to expect from us
- Clear communication. You will have a named adviser responsible for your engagement, with direct phone and email access.
- Defined scope. Our proposals specify exactly what is included and what is not. If the scope needs to change during the engagement, we discuss it before proceeding.
- Respect for your timeline. We work at the pace your situation requires — whether you need a readiness review completed in three weeks or stakeholder sessions spread over two months.
- Coordination with your advisers. We share relevant findings with your legal, accounting, and financial advisers when you authorise us to do so.
Ready to begin?
The first step is a conversation. Tell us about your firm and we will advise whether an engagement makes sense at this stage.