From the Trenches
Michael Markiewicz
Role: Chief Executive
Company: Carmichael Fisher
Industry: Recruitment firm
Revenue 2009 – 10: $21.5 million
As founding managing director of recruitment firm Hamilton James and Bruce, Michael Markiewicz led the company onto the then Australian Stock Exchange in 2000. When he left HJ&B in 2002, he had been with the company for 16 years and was its largest shareholder.
The desire to do it all again soon took hold, so he started Carmichael Fisher. Based in Sydney with an office in Melbourne, the firm initially employed eight consultants. “I wanted to keep the business as simple as possible,” Markiewicz says. “The intention was to work four days a week and to have a balanced lifestyle.”
But Markiewicz’s blue-chip international network, built up over many years, created its own momentum, and offices in London, Dubai, Singapore, Hong Kong and Tokyo followed. Even so, maintaining work-life balance remains a priority. “I have never worked harder, but I don’t want to be defined purely by my work,” he says.
Carmichael Fisher employs 100 people and has emerged largely unscathed from the global financial crisis. The Australian business has recorded a six month period comparable with the heady days before the crisis. “We are relieved, proud and a bit cautious.” Markiewicz says.
Lost or hired staff this month: We have made senior banking, finance and IT appointments in Hong Kong, Singapore and Melbourne, respectively.
What I’m glad I did this month: Added one week to a business trip to Dubai and London – we will be considering an opportunity in India, strengthening some global relationships and discussing our new office in Germany.
This month, I never would have expected: We would end a surprisingly good year with such a strong June and healthy pipeline leading into 2010-11. I am glad I held my nerve and didn’t reduce the company any further this time last year.
My big financial challenge this month: Considering new offices and opportunities overseas against the commitment required for existing offices and the time I need and want to spend in Sydney and Melbourne.
Who helped me manage a problem this month? My chief financial officer.
The future: Balancing the temptation to grow with the changing face of headhunting. Twenty-five-plus years’ experience says larger does not necessarily mean more profitable; in fact, it’s often the opposite.
Interview by Leo D’Angelo Fisher in BRW 22 July 2010 www.brw.com.au
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