Aaron has been in the industry for more than 20 years. During that time he has experienced many parts of the business and is now the General manager of Hot Spring, NZ. I have always found him to be very fair, commercial in his approach and brings a wealth of experience.
Anthony brings over 16 years’ experience in the Pool and Spa Industry to the SPASA Australia board. Having recently sat as a committee member for the Australian Standards change to AS1839 Anthony understands the ins and outs of the industry and the standards within it.
Current CEO of Clark Rubber, Anthony has been within the Australian retail industry for over 25 years’. He leads a group of professionals who together are responsible for developing and executing strategies to grow the business and drive financial performance for the Clark Rubber Franchise. Additionally, Anthony also serves as the Chairman of the Pool Franchise Council, meaning he brings a wealth of knowledge to the board.
Here's a few thoughts. More to share, should you be interested in my application.
1. Over 30 years of leadership experience, inclusive of 8 years in the swimming pool industry
2. Board experience - Bonds and The Berlei Group (Pacific Brands).
3. Extensive leadership experience in start-ups, SMEs, National and International businesses and across a variety of industries.
4. Strategic leadership in multifaceted cross section of Channels of Distribution including Boutique, Grocery, Mass, Specialty, Rental, Department, online - including physical and digital distribution of product.
5. Leadership disciplines including sales, product, marketing, logistics, operations, general management, etc.
6. Partnering industry bodies AHEDA (Home Entertainment Industry Board), V Net and a number of data collection/analytic businesses, including change management, lobbying organisations, inc. government bodies.
7. Strategic leader in Village Roadshow setting policies, and long-term strategic business direction, pitching to internal boards and external partners.
8. I am a passionate community member who understands what is happening at the coal face of the pool industry, including being a consumer as well and can relate at all levels.
9. Committed to growth of education and knowledge for industry operators and the consumer alike - with safety my number 1 priority.
10. Eager to continue build on SPASAs reputation and build a highly reputable industry standard, provide/promote a wonderful choice (career paths) as an 'industry' of choice.
11. Rebuilt 2 broken businesses as CEO into a success story for Swimart on the northern suburbs of Sydney (now largest multi store operator in NSW).
Currently in my 39th year in the pool industry, 37 years in my own business Aquarius Pools. Currently employing 14 people, and in a management buyout over 5 years.
Previously served 8 years on our local yacht club board and have held all four flag officer positions, including Commodore.
Now at a stage where i would like to give back to an industry that has given myself and my family a lot.
Both my children have completed school, which gives me some more time to put into new challengers.
Have a very good knowledge of all pool building and service in both commercial and domestic projects and have an unlimited building license.
Experienced leader with extensive local and international exposure to best practices from management consulting (Accenture), sales (Amazon/Microsoft) and digital experiences (NAB/Optus).
Managing Director of Swimming Pool Kits Direct for two years, and looking to contribute to the community with a fresh perspective.
My passion for all things pools started early with a background in competitive swimming and then lifesaving which took me working and competing internationally. Now I'm in the pool with the kids and training with a masters group at the state level.
I am nominating myself as i believe i have the experience and knowledge that would help the pool industry.
I have spent the last six years on the board of Landscape Victoria with my final year as president, I do miss being a part of an industry and was waiting for this roll to become available.
Hopefully you can see some value with my past experience and look forward to your response.
I am a Chartered Accountant with over 35 experience having worked in Audit , Insolvency , Stock Broking , Market Research Consulting and for the past 12 and half years as CFO for Hayward in Australia
During this time , I have developed industry knowledge , experience and believe, I would bring financial acumen to the SPASA Australia Board
Glenn Maxton, the Director of Laguna Pools & Spas Pty Ltd, is a standout nominee for the Swimming Pool and Spa Association (SPASA) board.
With over two decades in construction, Glenn has steered Laguna to become a leader in pool design and construction, recognised by numerous industry awards – over 80 in six years. His dedication to innovation, sustainability, and enhancing the customer experience aligns closely with SPASA's values, making him an ideal candidate, outlined below:
Industry Leadership: Glenn's two decades of experience in custom pool design and construction, alongside his detailed industry knowledge, enhances Laguna's leadership and project management capabilities. His commitment to innovation and operational efficiency has reshaped the company's strategy, demonstrating a visionary leadership style.
Innovation and Sustainability: His drive for sustainability has positioned Laguna as the first SPASA Climate Care Certified builder in Victoria, reflecting his dedication to merging environmental responsibility with design excellence. The development of customer portal, Watertyt, which integrates seamlessly with their project management software, Scoro, exemplifies Glenn's commitment to innovation and technology. This innovative portal offers Laguna's clients real-time access to project details, enhancing transparency and fostering a collaborative relationship throughout the design and construction process. Watertyt reflects Glenn's forward-thinking approach to customer service, ensuring projects are not just environmentally sustainable but also client-centred and communicatively efficient.
Customer Experience: Highly valuing customer satisfaction, Glenn leverages technology to boost efficiencies within the business and prioritises regular and detailed communication with all stakeholders. This ensures that every Laguna project is delivered with a focus on precision and personal touch.
Technical Acumen: Glenn's technical expertise and innovative approach have led Laguna to receive over 80 SPASA awards in six years, underlining the team's exceptional industry standing. By ensuring that projects not only meet, but exceed expectations, Glenn’s approach guarantees that Laguna’s pool and landscapes are not just functional and beautiful, but also deeply reflective of each client’s vision and lifestyle.
Strategic Marketing and Operational Excellence: Through strategic insights, Glenn has significantly improved Laguna's market presence and operational effectiveness, addressing challenges with expertise and securing the company's leadership position.
Glenn's vision for Laguna — to create unique, high-quality pools that push the boundaries of design and sustainability — mirrors the progressive values that SPASA champions. His dedication to enhancing the industry through innovation, leadership, and a commitment to excellence makes him an ideal candidate for the SPASA board. Glenn's nomination is fuelled by his proven track record of leading Laguna to new heights of success and his visionary approach to addressing the future challenges of the pool and spa industry.
After 20 years in the aquatic and recreation industry, I made the mover across to the pool and spa industry in the service space, For the past 4 years I have been building Halogen Pools into the powerhouse it is in the service space in Southeast QLD today and now its time to give back to the industry and help shape it for a great future.
Jessica Park is currently the Chief Marketing Officer for Reece ANZ. She began her journey with Reece as the Customer Leader (General Manager) for Marketing across the Irrigation and Pools business and has developed a passion for the Pool and Spa industry since that time. From product and process, to the trade and end consumer.
Prior to joining Reece in June of 2021, Jessica has over 18 years of experience in global creative, media and brand strategy consultancies such as Clemenger BBDO, Ogilvy, Publicis Mojo and Wunderman Thompson.
With a career dedicated to understanding and connecting with customers, Jess has worked with a variety of businesses to drive commercial growth, including L’Oreal, NAB, BMW Group, Swisse, Nissan, Cadbury, the University of Melbourne, and Collingwood Football Club.
Her skills are grounded in business strategy, multi-channel marketing and the role customer insights and experience can play in commercial growth.
Jess believes in keeping things simple whilst creating high performing teams who love doing what they do.
Thoughout my working career I have been involved in our family business, Aquatune established in 1984, which I am now the owner of. This has exposed me to the multifaceted fields in the Pool and Spa industry including importing, distribution and retail which I have gained valued experience in and can contribute insights to SPASA.
As a result of my university tertiary qualifications and solid work history, I have had working exposure in diffierent tiers of Government (State and Local) and have a knowledge of the inner mechanisms of government.
If my nomination is successful in becoming a board member, I believe I could be a valued contributor to the board of SPASA and positively assist in its operation and governance.
Julie Stoud has been a long- standing contributor to the Australian swimming pool and spa industry, working across a multitude of suppliers from Compass Pools to Zodiac and Pentair. Julie is well known to everyone in the pool and spa industry from suppliers to installers to resellers having started in the industry as a teenager in pool construction. Julie has remained in the industry her entire career and has grown to become the influential figure in driving the course of growth of the Pentair Pool business.
I wish to nominate Kerry Richmond, who has had an extensive involvement over 30 years of invaluable experience in the NZ pool industry, to sit on the Board of Directors for SPASA. Kerry is a prominent leader and visionary in the field, having demonstrated exceptional expertise and commitment throughout his time in the trade.
As the founder (at age 21) of Auckland Inground Pools, Kerry has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of the industry. He has profound knowledge that spans all facets of pool construction, renovation, and maintenance. Under his leadership, Auckland Inground Pools has become synonymous with quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, that lead to winning the NZ Pool of The Year 2023
Kerry has recently taken a back seat of being on the tools, and is now driving the business from the office and refining systems, procedures, policies and efficiencies and really focusing on team culture,
His track record of leadership, willingness to impart knowledge, coupled with dedication to advancing industry standards, makes him an ideal candidate for the SPASA Board of Directors. His insights from a kiwi builders point of view will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and success of SPASA.
I endorse (and hope others do too) Kerry Richmond's nomination and am confident that his appointment will bring immense value to the Board.
Please consider his candidacy.
Mario Aiezza has a unique blend of technical understanding and design capability, along with construction management and leadership skills. His technical design capacity for all types of pools and pool materials has been developed over 30 years of involvement in engineering for domestic, commercial and industrial pools as well as for water treatment plants. Mario is the founding and Managing Director of Innovezza Engineers and Surveyors, which has significant capacity and technical knowledge of concrete, FRP and lined pools as well as hydraulic capacity and forensic investigations. Innovezza’s culture is based upon Mario’s belief that a design engineer should help the industry, builders, and operators to improve their processes and develop innovative solutions which decrease construction effort, minimise cost and decrease maintenance requirements. In order to achieve this goal, Mario has been involved in SPASA Vic as well as MPBAA, volunteering his time to attend industry shows and present information to the public which helps to raise public understanding of what is required as well educate new entrants in the industry. Mario also volunteered as a Director of MPBAA to further add value to the board and provide technical understanding. The ability to provide advice and significant understanding of the BCA, NCC and the relevant codes, pre contract support and guidance will be of great advantage to the SPASA board as Mario will be able to interact with professional bodies on behalf of the SPASA Board as well as government agencies and code creators. This will ensure that the interests of SPASA members are considered, potential risks highlighted and paths to mitigate these risks are identified.
Regarding board involvement, Mario is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has been on various company boards through his career. As such, he brings a unique and in-depth understanding of board operations. Further, Mario is qualified to certify Engineering work in every state in Australia as well as New Zealand. His qualifications include the following:
BE Civil, FIEAust, NER, RPEV CPEng, APEC Engineer IntPE(Aust), CPEngNZ, BPB, RPEQ, BLA, RPENT, MAICD
I have been an owner and director of Newport Consulting Engineers for over 17 years and have engineered over 35,000 swimming pools in Australia and the Pacific Region.
These pools have ranged from small residential pools for an owner or pool builder to commercial swimming pools for multi-residential living, resorts or fitness centres.
These pools have been both been in situ and prefabricated concrete pools.
I enjoy engaging with all stakeholders in the project and would like to nominate for the board so I can use my knowledge and skills to support the continuing education and professionalism of SPASA members and the industry as a whole.
Rainbow began her career in the pool industry 17 years ago and has progressively been involved in all aspects of the trade, including both the retail and construction sectors, as she moved to her current General Manager’s role leading the teams at Ultimate Pools and Poolside North Shore in NZ. She is a registered Independent Pool Inspector for the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment, with an excellent understanding of regulatory compliance, and is a passionate advocate for promoting a high standard of professionalism and training within the swimming pool and spa industry.
Having 10 years in the Pool & Spa Industry, along with 23 Years in Franchising, in Operations, logistics, Retail and Service categories, I bring a high level of skills in leadership and comprehensive knowledge of business models and driving, mentoring opportunities and success within these sectors.
With 23 years of management experience in the swimming pool industry, Steven has developed the leadership and communication skills required to be a SPASA board member. Steven is committed to a single National Industry Association of the swimming pool industry to advocate, develop and drive our industry forward.
With a 15 year history within the swimming pool industry, Tom has had the privilege to develop a broad range of experiences across core business disciplines including sales, marketing, financial, strategic, manufacturing and technology. Tom draws on both national and international experience to valuably contribute to the future, success, sustainability, and prosperity of the Australian Swimming Pool Industry.
Valentina Tripp – Managing Director, Fluidra APAC
MBA, B.Com, CPA and MAICD
I am accomplished Chief Executive and Non-Executive Director, recognised for my experience and expertise in leading large scale strategic transformations, strong governance and sustainability leadership across a diverse range of sectors.
Currently I serve as Managing Director for Fluidra across APAC and am a member of the global executive. At Fluidra, I am leading the transformation across the APAC region to drive sustainable growth in the pool and wellness segments. We aim to enhance our customers lives and communities through innovative and sustainable solutions that transform the way people enjoy water for recreation and better health.
Previously I served as CEO/MD at Davey Water, Murray River Organics, Simplot Australia, and Senior Director with KPMG in Management Consulting.
As a passionate advocate for the pool and spa industry, I have supported the promotion, advocacy and engagement of our industry including the SPASA programs through Splash, Pool and Spa events, sponsorships, and a range of panels and communications aimed to attracting talent, building capabilities, driving innovation and promoting the benefits of our industry across our communities and end-consumers.
Further I am also passionate about water reform, sustainability, ethical practices, good governance, AI and the transition to renewable future. I have extensive Board experience. I currently serve as Deputy Chair for Irrigation Australia, Non-Executive Director for the Marine Stewardship Council International (UK), Australia’s representative at APEC for the Policy Partnership on Food Security.
Previously I Chaired Fairtrade in ANZ for six years, served on the Fairtrade International Global Board, Dried Fruits Industry Board, and Capilano Honey. I was Strategic Advisor to the Australian Food and Grocery Council Board, the peak industry body, over five years where I created and published the annual AFGC/KPMG State of the Industry Report between 2009-2014, which continues today.
I have also Chaired and served on a range of board committees including Finance, Audit & Risk, Nominations & Remunerations, Technical & Governance.
I am honoured to nominate to serve on the SPASA Board and commit to work with fellow Directors, the Executive and staff, and all our members to grow and promote our industry to for the benefit of all members.
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