John Colvin

John has spent over 30 years working in major professional services companies: over 20 years in PA Consulting Group, the last ten years in the roles of Asia Pacific CEO and International Board Director, seven years as CEO of Blake Dawson Waldron which was one of the world’s largest legal firms, two years as CEO of a publicly listed recruitment firm Hamilton James & Bruce, four years as a partner of Heidrick & Struggles and three years as Executive Chairman of an Australian leadership consulting firm.

John commenced his career as a commercial cadet in BHP in the Adelaide office and spent the next six years working in most of the commercial areas of the business.

He joined PA in Adelaide and spent the next 12 years working across a range of industries in Australia, Asia, Europe and South Africa. He was involved in setting up PA’s global financial services business and upon his return to Australia in 1981 he established that practice in Australia. As a result of success in this role, John was promoted to run PA’s Sydney’s office which became a strong contributor to PA’s global business and after a few years of successfully building this business John was promoted to the role of CEO Asia Pacific and a seat on the international board. This began his career as a CEO.

During his time as PA CEO, the business delivered high levels of growth, profitability and brand awareness.

During his seven years as CEO of Blakes, the business tripled in size and profit per partner also nearly tripled.

John built a very strong practice during his four years at Heidrick & Struggles and was recognised as a leader in the professional services segment of the market and the Board and CEO market place.

John earned a B Ec degree from Adelaide University and has attended numerous training programmes on most aspects of management practice.