Name: Kevin Blackley
Business: Blackley Construction
Year Founded: 1960
Industry: Property and Construction
Location: Palmerston North, Manawatu, Wanganui Region
Programme: Owner Manager Programme, 2013
Increase in turnover: 35%
Increase in FTEs: 26.67%
Kevin Blackley had been aware of The Icehouse for years, he knew others that had gone on the Owner Manger Programme, and so when he became a majority shareholder in Blackley construction the decision was simple after the BNZ mentioned the programme and told him to sign up. Kevin’s initial goals for the programme were to improve his knowledge on finance and business strategy and also take advantage of the networking opportunities and external perspectives.
For the first part of the programme, Kevin was a little unsure about the fit but was ‘sold’ when real-life examples were being given to show the impact these new skills could have. It was also when his business plan was challenged that he knew things were going to change for the better. The programme provided Kevin with the clarity to identify the direction in which he needed to move the business forward as well as the tools to do it and a network to utilise.
“The Owner Manager Programme helped me take the business forward, identify and implement changes that needed to be made to turn the business around. The networking opportunity and connections made with other business owners and experts were invaluable and Evan Cummings, one of the panellists of the programme, is now working with me on the business. Before I was facing a lot of uncertainty with the business strategy as I wanted to ensure I ‘got it right’ but the programme cemented my direction and I am already seeing the results.”
“Even with all the changes in the business, we definitely have a happier and more cohesive team with better communication and a common goal – to increase profitability.”
“Don’t be backward in coming forward or be afraid to take outside assistance to get you to where you want to go.”
