SA’s future depends on industry leaders – not politicians
Forget about looking to political leaders – SA’s future depends on an industry collective, argues Impact Awards ambassador Bruce Linn.
A decade ago SA’s future looked bright on the back of the mining boom and defence shipbuilding projects but the environment has changed and SA has descended into serious economic decline. It seems we always need someone to blame for everything and the Government is the obvious candidate on which to focus our collective anger at this economic malaise.
It is reasonable to apportion some of the blame for our circumstances on politicians and to expect them to fix the problems but in doing so one must also think outside the square to other, arguably more appropriately skilled, sectors to fill the breach.
I often hear it said that we are bereft of significant political leaders and leadership (on both sides of politics) and that this is the problem with SA’s economy. I agree with the first part of that statement but not the second.
We should forget about politics and our political leaders, on whom we have become too dependent, and rather focus on building strong and sustainable businesses to drive our economy into the future. All that is required of government is to get out of the way, reduce regulatory and other costs, provide a competitive business environment – and stop spending our money on ridiculous trophy projects like the O-Bahn tunnel that no one (except the Minister) wants and which will not add anything to sustainable economic development for the state.
We need to refocus on finding, supporting and recognising business leaders. It is this group that will turn our economic fortunes around, not politicians.
Now, let’s move onto something a lot more positive: what to do about the economic situation?
We have to acknowledge that our world has transformed. Competition is global and what local companies must understand is that one of two things are certain. First, sooner, rather than later, you will be competing against a world-class model, driven by a world class company here in your domestic market (I will be shocked if this has not already happened). Second, if you do not expand your markets, nationally and internationally, you risk being overrun by more aggressive, well-funded and disruptive competitors, many of whom you will never see coming.
The answer is very simple. Business owners and leaders need to ask one question: “Do I believe in South Australia and want to continue living here?” If the answer is yes, then we need to work together as a community – an industry collective.
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Bruce Linn is an experienced company director, chairman and former CEO who heads governance and strategic management consulting business Bruce Linn & Associates. He is a former CEO of Finlaysons Lawyers, EDS and Camtech.
The Impact Awards are now open for nominations. If your company would benefit from mentoring and support from one of the high achieving ambassadors running this initiative, enter today and help the South Australia win in an increasingly intensive globalisation game.
For more information or to nominate your business go to: www.theimpactawards.com.au
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