Emma Richards

Partner

Emma Richards leads RSM New Zealand's R&D Tax Services practice, helping innovative businesses access and maximise government incentives, with a particular focus on the Research and Development Tax Incentive regime. 

With more than 25 years of tax experience and over 16 years specialising in innovation incentives, Emma combines deep technical expertise with a practical, collaborative approach. Her unique background includes experience as a UK HMRC R&D Unit Inspector, and HMRC’s R&D Software Specialist for 3 years, providing valuable insight into what constitutes a robust and defensible R&D claim.

Emma works with businesses ranging from high-growth startups to listed entities, helping them unlock value from their innovation investments while maintaining compliance and audit readiness. 

Experience

Emma has held senior leadership positions across both New Zealand and the United Kingdom, including a Director-level role within a Big Four firm in New Zealand and senior positions within specialist tax advisory firms in the UK.

She currently leads RSM New Zealand's national R&D Tax Incentive practice and works closely with RSM's Global Incentives Group to support organisations with international research and development activities.

Her industry experience spans technology, information systems, construction, biotechnology and food technologies, providing her with a broad understanding of innovation across multiple sectors. 

Key Capabilities

• R&D Tax Incentives – End-to-end support for R&D Tax Incentive claims, including claim preparation, documentation and audit readiness.
• Innovation Strategy – Helping businesses align innovation activities with commercial and strategic objectives.
• Government Grants and Funding – Advising organisations on available funding opportunities and incentive programmes.
• Cross-Border Incentives – Coordinating international R&D incentive strategies through RSM's global network.
• Inland Revenue Reviews – Supporting businesses through reviews, audits and compliance processes. 

Significant Projects

• Led multi-entity R&D tax incentive claims exceeding $50 million.
• Successfully defended complex R&D claims under Inland Revenue review.
• Advised high-growth technology businesses on innovation and commercialisation strategies.
• Supported listed companies with ongoing R&D tax planning and incentive optimisation. 

Leadership and Community

Emma is known for making complex tax legislation and incentive regimes accessible and practical. She takes the time to understand each client's business, innovation activities and long-term goals, tailoring her advice to support their unique journey.

Clients value her ability to provide clarity, confidence and commercial insight throughout the R&D claim process, from initial scoping and eligibility assessments through to claim submission and Inland Revenue reviews.

Her genuine curiosity, collaborative approach and commitment to client success have helped her build strong, long-term relationships with innovative businesses across New Zealand.

Beyond her client work, Emma is passionate about supporting the future of innovation. She mentors emerging professionals and advocates for STEM education, helping foster the next generation of innovators and advisors. 

Credentials

• BSc (Hons), Business Information Systems, De Montfort University