At Phenna Group, we're proud to invest in people and create opportunities that allow careers to thrive. Our new series, Building a Career at Phenna, shares the stories of colleagues across our Group who have embraced challenges, grown their skills, and taken their careers to new heights. First up, we spoke with Brett Coleman, Divisional Managing Director for Asia, about his journey.
Before Phenna
Can you tell us a little about your career before joining Phenna?
I spent more than 35 years in the oil & gas and TICC sectors, holding leadership and business development roles with Baker Hughes, Shell, SGS and Intertek. Each role gave me fresh experiences and challenges that shaped my approach to leadership.
What skills or experiences from that time have been most useful in your journey here?
Every role taught me something, both what to do and, just as importantly, what not to do. I've had the privilege of working with excellent leaders and some less effective ones, and both have offered valuable lessons. The most important thing for me is to continue learning every day, reflecting on what works and what doesn't.
What led you to decide to enter the sector and join Phenna specifically?
I believed in the Phenna model from the start. In my previous role, the business operated very differently. At Phenna, I saw the chance to grow, develop, and deliver opportunities with speed and efficiency, all while working with an exceptional team focused on a shared goal.
Joining Phenna
When did you join Phenna, and what was your first role?
I joined in May 2021 as Managing Director of Austest in Australia.
What appealed to you about the opportunity at that time?
It was the chance to lead Austest while also driving Phenna's expansion in Australia, particularly through inorganic growth. That mix of operational leadership and growth potential really excited me.
Career Growth at Phenna
How has your career developed since joining?
My role has expanded significantly. Today, I serve as Divisional Managing Director for Asia, with responsibility for 18 companies across nine countries.
Looking back, what have been the most important turning points in your progression?
Leading our inorganic growth strategy and expanding responsibilities across Asia were key milestones. Those opportunities gave me the platform to have a real impact.
What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
Every business faces challenges, but overcoming them is part of the journey. Each challenge creates opportunities to adapt and improve.
Leadership and Impact
Tell us about your current role and responsibilities.
I'm responsible for the growth of our existing businesses across Asia, as well as driving the region's inorganic growth through strategic acquisitions.
What do you find most rewarding about leading in the Group?
The people. I enjoy working with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, bringing together their different skills and perspectives to overcome obstacles and deliver results.
What achievements are you most proud of in your career here?
Helping to grow the region from one company to 18 and increasing annual revenues from AUD $7 million to AUD $ 400 million. And we're not stopping there; there's still plenty more growth ahead.
Reflections and Advice
How would you describe the culture at Phenna and its support for career growth?
Collaborative and focused. There are no egos, no politics, and no hidden agendas. Everyone works together towards clear goals and outcomes.
What advice would you give to others who want to grow their careers at Phenna?
Come on board. Every company faces challenges, but here the opportunities and rewards make it worthwhile.
If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of career advice, what would it be?
I'd have joined a private equity-backed business much earlier in my career. The pace, growth, and opportunity are second to none.
Personal Touch
What do you enjoy outside of work that helps you stay motivated and balanced?
Spending time with family is most important. I also love to travel whenever possible, and I try to keep active, although I'll admit I could do with a bit more exercise to improve the balance!
Can you share a fun fact or interest that colleagues might be surprised to learn about you?
I have a reputation among my friends and family for having “fads”. I call them life experiences. I will try, and have tried, just about any sport or activity at least once, to give it a go. For example, I holidayed in Japan many years ago and came back a tried the Japanese martial art of Kendo, just to give it a go.
Brett's journey is proof that at Phenna Group, careers can grow quickly and meaningfully. From leading a single business in Australia to managing 18 across Asia, his story shows what's possible when talent meets opportunity. Stay tuned for more inspiring journeys in our 'Building a Career at Phenna' series, and if you're ready to take the next step in your career, consider joining one of our companies across the Group.