Q&A with Blue Sky's departing MD and founder Mark Sowerby
Blue Sky's founder and managing director, Mark Sowerby, says it will be "easy" to hand over the reins to his successor, Rob Shand, as he prepares to "retire" from his role at the end of this month. In a Q&A with Industry Moves he says that while there is nothing better in his working life than Blue Sky, he's ready to move from the front and centre and into a support role for his wife and sons. He shares some sound advice for new starters, what he learnt from working as a cotton trader in America's deep south and why it's important for all good leaders to "get their hands dirty."
Blue Sky's founder and managing director, Mark Sowerby, says it will be "easy" to hand over the reins to his successor, Rob Shand, as he prepares to "retire" from his role at the end of this month. In a Q&A with Industry Moves he says that while there is nothing better in his working life than Blue Sky, he's ready to move from the front and centre and into a support role for his wife and sons. He shares some sound advice for new starters, what he learnt from working as a cotton trader in America's deep south and why it's important for all good leaders to "get their hands dirty."
As the founder of Blue Sky, how do you feel about handing over the reins?
It's easy actually. I understand the business needs to evolve as it matures. We are a startup and I've been in charge for 10 years - that's enough, and the reality is the next wave are more capable than me. Rob is part of a broader leadership group of people proven under challenging conditions.
Can you name a highlight from your time with the firm?
That's easy. We always put out there what we were going to do, and we got it done. It wasn't always the way we expected, but we built a reputation for delivering and it was hard earned. Only good teams can do that over a 10 year period.
In your opinion, what makes for a good leader?
It depends on what's needed. In times of crisis then you need different leadership to when momentum is in your favour. At a base level though, I would say you should never ask anyone to do something you haven't done yourself at some point in your history. Get your hands dirty.
What's next on the cards for you?
I "retired" from Blue Sky as a sign of respect to the team - I'm not leaving for another job or role. There is nothing in my working life that is better than Blue Sky. I desperately want to spend some time with my boys - they are entering the teenage years - and support my wife Heidi in her endeavours. I will give back through some social good roles like Chief Entrepreneur of Queensland, as a Director of the Starlight Children's Foundation and Racing Queensland. I am very happy to move from front and centre to support!
What was your very first job?
I chipped weeds in cotton rows starting at 11 years old. My first "real" job was as an agronomist on the Darling Downs in Queensland after studying agricultural science. I was a glorified bug checker - inspecting cotton and broccoli fields for insects! I wasn't very good at it.
What advice would you offer to people who are just about to enter the industry?
We are at our heart a private equity company. It sounds glamourous but it's a grind. We basically end up in long term illiquid investments, many times in partnerships, and with no way out if things get tough! So this requires a higher quality individual with great empathy, strength of character, conviction in their ideas and abilities, and a love for people. If deep down you know you haven't got this, then don't apply.
Who has been the biggest influence on your life/career so far?
I worked for a company called Weil Brothers as a cotton trader in Alabama, USA. The family had 5 generations of experience and they treated me like I was one of them. I learned the difference between risk and reward, the importance of reputation and always doing the right thing, that you can still make mistakes as long as it's for the right reasons. I saw first hand the reality of intergenerational thinking, trust and relationship
Do you have a hidden skill or secret talent?
I seem to be able to build high performing teams. I truly love people and care about them and I think that over time that comes through. That's about the limit of my powers!
Is there a particular charity you support and why?
Starlight Children's Foundation.The relationship is an accident of history and friendship but I have seen at multiple levels the positive impact they have on sick kids and their families, and its well managed! I like kids stuff.
