"It is a truly values driven business": Q&A with Vision Super's Bryan Collins
Bryan Collins recognised Vision Super as an organisation that was "going places" when he moved into the newly-created role of head of finance last month. In a career that has focussed on "driving change and transformation", Bryan tells Industry Moves the key themes in his plans for the role. He also names an industry mentor, shares his appreciation for data, and reveals his tips for maintaining a work/life balance.
Bryan Collins recognised Vision Super as an organisation that was "going places" when he moved into the newly-created role of head of finance last month. In a career that has focussed on "driving change and transformation", Bryan tells Industry Moves the key themes in his plans for the role. He also names an industry mentor, shares his appreciation for data, and reveals his tips for maintaining a work/life balance.
What initially attracted you to a career in Finance?
I studied a finance qualification because I wanted a broad business understanding. I was never in the mould of a traditional accountant but I did a couple of traditional accounting roles when first starting out. Since then all my roles have centred around driving change and transforming functions, which is what I thrive doing.
...and what attracted you to Vision Super in particular?
There were a range of factors that attracted me to Vision Super. It is a truly values driven business that places the member at the centre of their decision-making. They have embedded ESG responsibility into the fabric of the organisation as well as their products and investments, which I find admirable. It certainly is not just 'lip-service' at Vision Super.
It became clear that Vision Super held significant growth and expansion aspirations, and this, coupled with recent years of impressive performance on all fronts (FUM growth, investment returns, MERs) presented a great opportunity to join an organisation that is going places.
What are your goals within this role over the coming 12 months?
The recent updating of core systems was a significant undertaking and has laid a strong foundation for the future. There is some priority work to be done in the short term, and then we can capitalise on that foundation. As I've only just started, I'm still assessing and prioritising goals with the exec, but automation and data-driven insights will be key themes of our plans.
It's been said that you have a "deep appreciation" for data. Can you expand on that?
I have an appreciation of what quality data and analytics can add in a business context and have seen the power of data in a few roles. One of the achievements I am proudest of during my time at my previous role was building an internal business partnering capability out of a team that previously focused on maintaining books and records. Through making sense of the data and adding insight and context we created a team that was strategically valued by the businesses we supported - and which ultimately influenced better outcomes for members.
Do you have an industry mentor, or someone who has influenced your career in some way? If so, who?
I have a few people that I consult from time to time, and a number of colleagues I have learned from - and not always those more senior than me either. I'd call out the prior CFO at QSuper (Michael Cottier) who I call for guidance from time to time. He is someone I admire not only for his sharp intellect and measured approach, but for his calm and respectful manner.
What were your first impressions of Australia when you first emigrated here in 2003?
Initially I lived on the Northern Beaches of Sydney. As I had moved during the US East coast winter to sunshine, beaches, and 20 mins to the city on the ferry - it's fair to say I was smitten!
You've lived all across the globe, in London, New Jersey, Amsterdam and Cape Town. Where has been your favourite place to live and why?
You have omitted Brisbane and Sydney! I grew up in Cape Town and left at age 25. As that is home, it will always be very special and I always encourage people to visit as it's a diverse and interesting part of the world to travel to. As for the other cities I've lived in, they have all had pros and cons.
How do you maintain a work/life balance?
With technology nowadays, we can be connected all the time. This can help or hinder both productivity and work/life balance.
I prefer not to stay late at the office, and would rather login later from home. It's easy to become a non-participant in weekly family life if working late at the office becomes a habit. At both my previous roles I had a day from home each week, which helped with work-life balance and productivity. I would target that day for writing presentations, Board papers etc. with minimal interruptions. If there was work to be done at home by a tradesman, or a doctor's appointment then I would schedule them for that day too.
If you weren't working in finance, what would you be doing?
I'd be a landscape architect. I've relished the garden transformations I've undertaken in my own properties, and have at times wondered whether that would have been a good path to follow. It's extremely fulfilling for me, but fortunately I can still enjoy working on my own property as a hobby.
