Poolwerx appoints seasoned board expert as new Chair
Poolwerx has appointed seasoned public company executive Sue Collyns as Chair to continue bolstering the company’s ambitious growth, innovation and technology goals.
With almost three decades of experience in the US and Australia, Collyns brings deep experience in C-suite executive and board roles across various sectors, including some of the largest companies in the world such as Lion/Pepsi; CPK/Dine/CAVA/Bluestone Lane Restaurants; Glaxo pharmaceuticals; Sony and PwC.
Originally from Australia and relocated to the United States in 1994, Collyns has served as an executive director for eight years and held executive positions including two terms as CFO in publicly traded companies in the US.
Her impressive track record includes leading two companies public on the NYSE, taking two companies private, as well as being the recipient of several prestigious awards, including CFO of the Year, Executive of the Year, and Most Influential Board Member Awards in the United States. She has also served as Chair of audit committees, compensation committees, and as a member of nominating and governance committees.
Executive director and founder of Poolwerx, John O’Brien says that Collyns’ 20 years of knowledge leading franchise businesses in more than 18 countries – together with her experience partnering with venture capital and private equity – provides a competitive edge for Poolwerx as they expand across Australia, New Zealand and North America.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sue to the team,” he says. “Her global perspective, dedication to excellence and passion for the Poolwerx brand will be instrumental in guiding the company to new heights. This appointment represents a significant milestone in our growth, and we are perfectly positioned and excited to capitalise on the market opportunities that lie ahead.
“A core value of Poolwerx is to constantly evolve to honour our key values ‘dare to succeed’ and ‘find the better way’ – I am confident that with Sue as Chair, we will continue to realise the vision we established 30 years ago.”
Collyns says she has always been intellectually curious and enjoyed driving business success.
“At this stage of my career, I am passionate about legacy and sharing my experience as a C-suite executive and six-time board member to help businesses and management teams reach their full potential, give-back to the community and execute strategies that maximise shareholder value,” she says.
“It’s where I think I can have the most impact and drive ROI.”
Her enthusiasm for Poolwerx extends beyond business, as she shared her own personal memories of growing up in the Sydney suburbs and swimming in the pool with her family from a young age. She understands the emotional impact and shared experiences a pool can have on families and communities, making her a passionate and authentic advocate for the brand.
“I can’t emphasise enough how important Poolwerx is, not just as an example of a great Australian entrepreneurial success story with a clear founder-led vision and team of passionate franchisee partners, but also as a business that provides happiness and backyard memories,” she says.
“I’ve always been drawn to businesses, brands and cultures that inspire me, and Poolwerx achieves all three in spades and resonates on a deep and personal level.”
Retirement of Russ Reynolds
Collyns is succeeding former Chair Russ Reynolds, who has retired due to a family health matter.
O’Brien says that he, the board and entire Poolwerx team thank him for his service and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.
