Zachary Cachia, co-founder and head of finance at Helix Partners, is a professional who thrives on the intricacies of the financial world and the opportunities it offers to create meaningful partnerships. His journey from an ambitious young auditor to a business leader reflects a clear vision and determination to shape a company that prioritises client growth and regulatory excellence.

Zachary’s career began directly after finishing A-levels, diving straight into the ACCA qualification while working with a Big Four firm. “The idea when I started was always to learn to leave and start my own thing,” he says, reflecting on his early years in auditing. His time in audit provided a solid foundation, exposing him to the financial and operational workings of various businesses, but it was his stint in Luxembourg that cemented his decision to go independent. “It was quite intense, and when I came back, it was time.”

Starting small, Zachary built Helix Partners from the ground up, initially taking over clients from audit firms and sharing fees. Today, the firm stands as a leading advisory partner for businesses navigating complex financial landscapes, particularly in gaming and highly regulated industries. The company has expanded to a dynamic team, providing not just standard accounting and tax compliance but also value-added services like market entry strategies and business structuring. “We get involved with the running of your business,” he explains. “Whether it’s entering a new market or structuring partnerships, we help clients achieve their goals.”

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Zachary credits the success of Helix to its strategic partnership with Michael Muscat, his co-founder, and long-time collaborator. “We’re very different people, but that works. He pulls me out of my comfort zone, and I put him into one,” Zachary notes. This balance allows them to approach challenges from diverse perspectives, meeting in the middle to drive the business forward. He also highlights Michael’s strength in navigating complex jurisdictions, particularly in the gaming industry, as a key asset to their firm’s success.

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The journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. Zachary recalls Malta’s recent regulatory overhaul, which created significant challenges for businesses but ultimately strengthened the country’s reputation as a jurisdiction. “I believe those changes were necessary growing pains. Malta’s image is improving, and it’s becoming quite attractive again,” he explains. Helix Partners has leveraged this environment, guiding clients through regulatory mazes and helping them establish a strong foothold.

As Zachary looks ahead, he envisions steady growth for Helix Partners but remains committed to maintaining its boutique approach. “We don’t want to be a massive organisation. We grow with our clients but know when to say, ‘You need someone else,’” he explains, emphasising their tailored approach to client service. Technology, particularly AI, is also on his radar as a tool to streamline data-heavy processes and shift focus to higher-value tasks. “AI is not a threat; it’s an opportunity to ease pain points and add value.”

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Ultimately, Zachary believes that reputation and quality are paramount in their industry. “We’re not selling a product; we’re selling trust,” he states. This philosophy, coupled with a team he describes as “hand-picked and on the same page,” ensures that Helix Partners delivers services that genuinely care about client success.

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Through his leadership and his partnership with Michael Muscat, Zachary Cachia has not only built a business but also a legacy of client-centred growth and innovation. Helix Partners stands as a testament to their shared vision of a firm that evolves with its clients while staying true to its core values.