Lisa Murphy

Managing Partner & Head of Tax – RSM New Zealand Limited Partnership

Lisa Murphy is Managing Partner and a Tax Partner in Auckland, advising national and international clients on complex tax matters and strategic business structuring.

Lisa is known for her pragmatic, solutions-focused approach, ensuring clients operate under the most effective tax structures aligned to their commercial objectives. Her work spans multi-million dollar property developments, listed companies, and high-growth businesses requiring ongoing strategic tax advice.

She has also successfully negotiated favourable outcomes for clients in Inland Revenue investigations and played a lead role in significant M&A transactions.

Experience

Lisa began her career with Inland Revenue, spending 12 years building deep expertise in tax investigations before progressing into legal and technical advisory roles. She later held senior roles within a Big Four firm and a boutique tax advisory practice prior to joining RSM.

Her experience spans domestic and international tax, with particular focus on the tech-focused/start-up enterprises, property development/construction and logistics/freight-forwarders.  

Key Capabilities

• Tax & Business Structuring: Designing tax-efficient strategies aligned to business growth objectives
• Strategic Advisory: Supporting long-term planning, transformation, and commercial decision-making

Major Projects

• Structured tax advice for large-scale residential and commercial property developments
• Advised major agribusiness and winery operations on tax and business optimisation
• Supported SMEs with ongoing tax strategy and compliance frameworks
• Negotiated successful outcomes in Inland Revenue disputes and audits
• Led tax due diligence and advisory on transactions ranging from $5m to $350m

Leadership and Community

As Managing Partner, Lisa is recognised for her calm leadership style, clear strategic direction, and commitment to maintaining high standards across the firm.

She is actively involved in the community, serving as Treasurer of Business East Tamaki and contributing to organisations including the Middlemore Foundation. Her long-standing involvement in local sports and boating clubs reflects her commitment to community growth and connection.

Credentials

• Member, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand
• Bachelor of Business Studies, University of Auckland
• Master of Taxation Studies (First Class Honours), University of Auckland