My Way: David Conroy gives his business advice

MOVER: Conroy Removals managing director David Conroy, pictured with daughter and general manager Fiona Conroy, says the best advice he ever received was to say yes to all opportunities.

Hawke's Bay Today is running a series of questions and answers from business leaders. Patrick O'Sullivan talks to David Conroy, the founder of Conroy Removals which has offices in New Zealand and Australia.

Where did it all start for you?

From a young age I had a love of trucks and as soon as I was old enough left school - although it wasn't driving trucks to begin with as I was only 15. Before too long I did get my licence, driving throughout NZ. An opportunity arose to purchase a removal business in 1972 and, with a loan from my mum, I put enough together to purchase the business and that was the start of Conroy's.

What is the best advice you ever received?

Say yes to all the opportunities that come your way, some great things have evolved from this. While the yes approach does cause a few headaches this is far outweighed by the benefits. Many of these opportunities have led the path to our growth and this applies today.

What was a major breakthrough?

The removal of the NZ Rail licensing, which meant we were legally able to work throughout New Zealand moving both household and commercial furniture.
What goals have you for your business or yourself for 2016?
For us technology has become a major driver of our business. The need for people and trucks will not fade but the demands to provide better information to customers and staff has become significant and we are looking forward to working on these projects.

What needs to change in Hawke's Bay for better growth?

First and foremost the Ruataniwha Dam needs to get under way, this will create much needed jobs for the region and allow for ongoing growth. Hawke's Bay is a great place to live, easily accessible to NZ's main centres. However, we need growth from existing and new industries to create employment opportunities.