Who we are
Colvin is one of Australia’s leading boutique executive search and consulting firms. We help our clients grow, evolve, and improve performance through expert guidance and tailored solutions.
Colvin History
Colvin was established by John Colvin to bring together over three decades of international leadership experience across management consulting, legal profession, executive search, and board advisory. Having delivered large-scale transformational programs in the financial services sector in every major financial centre globally, John saw an opportunity to offer something different: a firm that blends the strategic depth of a global consultancy with the responsiveness and care of a boutique practice.
During his tenure on the global board of PA Consulting and as CEO of top-tier firms in both the consulting and legal sectors, John consistently drove growth and performance through leadership clarity and strategic focus. Colvin was created to continue that work, offering senior-level guidance to organisations looking to grow smarter, lead more effectively, and build lasting value.
From the beginning, Colvin has focused on quality outcomes and long-term relationships. The firm’s reputation has been built not just on credentials, but on consistent delivery, sound judgement, and a clear understanding of what high-performing organisations need to succeed.
Today, Colvin is trusted by leading professional services firms, boards, and executives across Australia to support their most critical leadership and growth decisions – with insight, integrity, and impact.
Colvin Values
What we stand for
Our values guide everything we do and keep us focused on our vision: to be the leading firm in our specialised areas in Australia. They’re more than just words; they shape how we work, how we communicate, and how we deliver for our clients and candidates.
Deliver the best quality work
We are committed to delivering the highest standard of work for every job, client, and candidate. For our clients and candidates, this means thoughtful, thorough solutions tailored to your needs – every time.
Communicate in the best way possible
We believe strong partnerships are built on clear, honest, and timely communication. Clients and candidates can expect transparency at every stage, proactive updates, and responsiveness that supports confident decision-making.
Innovate to stay relevant
The world doesn’t stand still – and neither do we. We continuously refine our methods and embrace new thinking to ensure we remain effective, efficient, and aligned with what matters most to our clients.
Go the extra mile
We care deeply about the people we work with. Going above and beyond is second nature – whether that’s putting in the extra time, thinking more strategically, or simply being available when needed.
Always do the right thing
Integrity underpins everything we do. Clients and candidates trust us to act in their best interests, make fair and ethical decisions, and provide honest advice – even when the right path is the harder one.
Colvin Team
John Colvin
Principal
John Colvin brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across three major professional services sectors: management consulting, legal services, and executive search. As a member of the global board at PA Consulting Group, he led the firm’s Asia-Pacific operations and drove complex, high-value transformation initiatives in every major financial centre worldwide. He later served as CEO of Blake Dawson Waldron (now Ashurst), one of Australia’s top-tier law firms, before joining Heidrick & Struggles, where he built a market-leading CEO assessment methodology. John established Colvin to continue the work he’s most passionate about – helping clients grow, lead, and perform at their best and candidates to optimise their careers.
Jill Johnson
Executive Assistant
Jill brings a sharp eye for detail and a proactive approach to supporting John and the wider Colvin team. With strong organisational skills and a calm, professional presence, she ensures day-to-day operations run smoothly and efficiently, allowing the firm to stay focused on delivering results for clients.
Deirdre Colvin
Director
Deirdre brings deep experience as a senior HR executive and trusted advisor, with a background in business administration and communications. As Director, she provides seamless support across all aspects of Colvin’s operations – combining discretion, responsiveness, and exceptional organisational skills in high-level environments.
Caroline Mirams
Executive Assistant
Caroline plays a key role in managing communications, scheduling, and project coordination for the Principal and consulting team. Known for her discretion, responsiveness, and problem-solving mindset, she helps maintain the high standard of service Colvin is known for.
Emma Kilner
Research Assistant
Emma supports the consulting team with targeted research, candidate mapping, and market insights. With a keen eye for detail and a structured approach, Emma plays a key role in ensuring each engagement is informed, thorough, and strategically aligned.
Kristy Colvin Stewart
Senior Associate
Kristy supports Colvin’s clients with research, analysis, and strategic insight across executive search and advisory projects. With a strong background in professional services and a sharp understanding of leadership dynamics, Kristy plays a key role in identifying top talent and helping clients make informed, confident decisions.
Dorothea Eckhardt
Marketing Specialist
Dorothea brings global experience in branding, copywriting, and strategic marketing to Colvin. Having worked with leading agencies and clients across Europe, the UK, the USA, and Australia, she ensures the firm’s communications are clear, consistent, and aligned with its professional reputation.