I have long been intrigued by what motivates people to do what they do. Having owned my own businesses, taught university students, held public office and led positive change for communities, I have appreciated each experience. However, it was those years as an entrepreneur and business owner that forged my view of the world. It was the experience of leading a large team of employees across two states that galvanised for me the importance of vision, strategy, communication and persistence. It also taught me the vital importance of customers. Having built a retail chain, it was our customers who were the very reason for our existence. I have applied that customer-centric approach to everything that I have done since.
I also appreciate what it means to take a financial risk and have empathy, insight and support for those that do the same. The relationship between risk and reward strikes to the very core of being a business owner. Further interests of mine include technology and sustainability as technology has literally transformed the way that we work, communicate, live and recreate. Automation will inevitably transform the way that we travel. With change as the only constant and the pace of disruption accelerating, many business leaders are focussing on building a sustainable enterprise, both financially and environmentally.
I recently joined the South Australian Business Chamber as CEO. I appreciate the vote of confidence that Nikki Govan and the Board of Directors have put in me. I appreciate the support of the Premier and the Leader of the Opposition. Thank you to Nigel McBride for his great work over the last seven years and for a seamless handover. Thank you also to the entire the South Australian Business Chamber team and to our members who have reached out to welcome me aboard.
As the first Chamber of Commerce established in Australia, the South Australian Business Chamber has an influential history. It also has a very exciting future. As the peak body for employers, the South Australian Business Chamber supports all industry sectors with a diverse range of training solutions, mentoring, networking, export services, sponsorship opportunities and public and political advocacy. On a daily basis, the South Australian Business Chamber assists employers with the complexities of employing staff and complying with their obligations.
As a former business owner, it was often what I didn’t know that kept me up at night. Business is becoming increasingly complex and the South Australian Business Chamber’s job to help you grow your business, save you money and to watch your back. As the peak body for employers across South Australia, the South Australian Business Chamber has a leadership role to play for all South Australians as when businesses grow, there is more opportunity for everyone.
It’s now time for me and the team to get to work on assisting our Members to grow and prosper.
This article was originally published in the South Australian Business Journal on Tuesday 28 May 2019.
Martin Haese is the South Australian Business Chamber’s chief executive.
