The Three Traits of a Successful KiwiSpan Licensee

As a licensee network, our strength depends on the unique leadership of each regional team. Individuals with a range of backgrounds and expertise combine within the KiwiSpan network to build our national reputation as a high-quality and business-savvy shed-building brand.

We take talent sourcing very seriously – because we understand that people are the core of our exceptional network. We look for candidates who reflect the key values of KiwiSpan, and who have the experience to be successful in our industry.

We’re often asked what traits are most important to have as a KiwiSpan licensee – so here’s an insight into how we consider our candidates. When it comes to KiwiSpan leadership, these are the top three characteristics we value.

1. Industry experience

As business owners and operators, KiwiSpan licensees have total autonomy over the daily runnings of their region. While we offer engineering, marketing, and developmental support through the network, it’s essential that every licensee transitions into the network with the skills and expertise to drive their own business.

Nearly all of our existing licensees have a background in construction, and many have entrepreneurial experience in the industry. A great example is Rowan Thornton, owner of KiwiSpan Wairarapa. As the founder and operator of RTC Construction, Rowan specialised in subcontracting for other shed-building companies before taking ownership of the Wairarapa license.

While direct experience working with sheds isn’t required, a sense of business management and an understanding of the construction industry are essential. Jill and Darryn Astill from KiwiSpan Tauranga have extensive experience building rural fencing through their independent business Ground Up Services. Their knowledge of the Tauranga market combined with experience building customer relationships has made theirs a smooth transition into the KiwiSpan network.

2. A positive attitude

The KiwiSpan brand has a national reputation not only for high construction quality, but also for providing exceptional service. Effective communication skills and a great deal of patience are both absolutely essential to maintaining and creating strong professional partnerships.

To step into a licensee position, it’s important for candidates to demonstrate their ability to manage the human side of business. Positivity, transparency, and resilience are the qualities that reflect the strength and integrity of the KiwiSpan brand.

The most successful licensees also carry a strong sense of commitment and a hard-working attitude. Having the desire to grow and improve, both as a business and a leader, drives our work forward as an industry leader.

In turn, KiwiSpan licensees are offered unparalleled flexibility and independence. Each licensee structures their schedule and workload in the way that works best for them. Many regions are run by partners, who divide roles between site management and office management. Some teams appoint dedicated salespeople to focus solely on customer quotes, or designate assistants to handle extra administrative tasks.

3. Pride for the work

Quality defines what we do. As a national brand, our identity is based on the exceptional design and construction of aesthetically-appealing, bespoke builds. It’s important to us that every licensee shares this passion and a commitment for delivering the highest quality on every project.

We love to see candidates who glow with pride. Strong businesses are built on strong relationships – within regional communities and professional networks. As Tonya Harrison from KiwiSpan Wairarapa puts it, “This is hard work, and there are some late nights. But we’re proud to be involved in a collaborative network that supports us to deliver cool-as buildings.”

—-

KiwiSpan is always on the lookout for more exceptional business leaders to take on new licensees. With several territories currently for sale, it’s a great time to join the KiwiSpan network and experience the support of a brand backed by Donovan Group.

Learn more about our application process by reading the KiwiSpan Licensee Prospectus.