In accordance with the company’s well-established succession strategy, the Board has made the decision to designate Brad Colledge as the incoming Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, following a transitional period of four months. This change will officially come into effect on March 1, 2024.
Mr. Colledge boasts a remarkable 28-year tenure at Data#3, having commenced his journey with the company in 1995. Starting as an Account Executive, he rapidly ascended the ranks, founding and leading the Licensing Solutions division in 1997.
Over the course of 17 years, he skillfully oversaw the Licensing business before assuming the helm of the broader Software Solutions sector in 2013.
In 2014, his responsibilities expanded to include the Infrastructure Solutions domain, and more recently, Services. Presently, he holds the position of Executive General Manager, overseeing Software Solutions, Infrastructure Solutions, and Services.
Furthermore, he holds a degree in business from the Queensland University of Technology and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Baynham said, “In my tenth year as Managing Director and CEO I believe now is the right time to hand over the baton. Data#3 has never been in better shape, and I am proud of the growth we have achieved during this time, with our market capitalisation increasing tenfold,”
“The company has been built on the experience, tenure and culture of our team and it is very satisfying to have such a high calibre internal candidate to see the business through this exciting next phase in its growth journey,” said Baynham
“Brad has my 100% backing and is exceptionally well placed to lead Data#3. He joined the Company just one year after I did and has an intimate knowledge of the business,,”
“He has already had considerable responsibility across different operational aspects and as a key member of the senior leadership team has been instrumental in setting its strategic direction for some time,”
Brad is highly regarded across the business and by the rest of the senior leadership team and Board. I would like to personally congratulate Brad and thank him for his support, loyalty, professionalism and expertise over many years.” he said.
According to Colledge Laurence has been an exceptional and valued leader of Data#3 and it has been a pleasure having him as a trusted mentor and colleague.
“He leaves a mammoth legacy after a decade as Managing Director and CEO and nearly three decades in the business. Data#3 is the market leader in Australia with a high-quality customer base built over many years thanks to our diverse offering, strong industry relationships and exceptional team,” Laurence said
“I am excited to be taking over at a time when the industry is evolving so rapidly, with Data#3 at the forefront of driving this change.” he said.
Richard Anderson, Chairman of Data#3 Limited says Laurence has made an enormous contribution to Data#3’s success with his outstanding leadership and management of our business and its people.
“I am also pleased with Brad’s future appointment and I am sure he will have the support of the entire Data#3 team. The changes we have announced are all part of a carefully developed succession plan to ensure continuity and confidence in the business going forward.”
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Laurence for his nine years as CEO/MD, and to congratulate Brad on his appointment into the role next year,” said Anderson.
Listed on the ASX in 1997, Data#3 reported revenues of $2.5 billion in FY23. Headquartered in Brisbane, it has more than 1,400 staff, and facilities across 12 locations in Australia and Fiji.