An experienced, successful and independent business advisor and mediator. Utilising his professional accounting and financial skills, commercial and legal knowledge and business experience, John assists organisations by providing strategic direction, implementing effective governance policies and processes and introducing appropriate measures to mitigate risk.
John brings a valuable perspective and clarity of mind to solving complex problems. He enjoys the variety of working with different organisations and people in dynamic environments that foster and encourage innovation and the development of others.
Areas of Expertise
- Business Advisor & Mentor – working with organisations and key people to establish better business practices, navigate and solve complex business problems and establish platforms to drive business success
- Stakeholder Engagement – significant experience in developing trusted relationships with multifaceted stakeholder groups
- Trusted Advisor – engaged through legal and professional service firms as an independent expert resource to advise and provide counsel in relation to difficult business situations
- Independent Expert – experienced practitioner in litigation support, investigations and report writing
- Risk Management – extensive experience and familiarity with governance issues in public and private enterprise, including as Chair of Audit Committee
- Leadership, Coaching & Mentoring – as the Managing Partner of professional services firms and Chair of a TEC group (The Executive Connection – a learning and development forum for CEO’s and Business Owners) John has been instrumental in mentoring individuals to achieve their potential
- Board and Governance Experience – Chair and independent non-executive director in government, for purpose and for profit organisations
- Business Turnarounds – a practiced professional in business reconstruction, corporate and personal insolvency
- Strategy Development and Business Planning – facilitating and formulating strategic development and planning to focus business activity and direction
- Policies & Procedures – Developing standards to ensure adherence to stated policies & procedures
Key Attributes
Strategic and creative thinking
- Sees the big picture, creates a clear vision and sense of purpose
- Thinks ahead and puts steps in place to mitigate risk
- Brings a clarity and a point of difference to problem solving
Effective communication and influencing skills
- Builds strong relationships underpinned by credibility and trust
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Commercial Acumen and outcome focussed
- A leader and mentor who guides people to achieve their best
- Expects high standards and holds people accountable
- Enjoys working in, and contributing to, teams
- Results focused – identifies team strengths and employs these to achieve outcomes
Current Board and Advisory Roles
Chair Martindale Holdings Pty Ltd – the company manages rural properties for the University of Adelaide) (1997 – current)
Chair The Australian Major Performing Arts Group (AMPAG) (2010 – current)
Director Yarra River Administration P/L and Yarra River Holdings P/L (Australian Director on behalf of US owners of farms in Australia) (2011 –current)
Chair 45 Park Pty Ltd (a company undertaking a major property development in Adelaide) (2011 –current)
Director and Chair of Audit & Risk South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC) (2011 – current)
Chair State Opera Company of SA