With a remarkable 157-year history, Grundy’s Shoes is a family owned footwear business specialising in sourcing and selling comfortable footwear from around the world, with stores in Glenelg, Victor Harbor and Adelaide as well as a thriving online department. Current Company Director and General Manager, Tom Whittenbury is a sixth generation family employee and is passionate about continuing to see the business grow and thrive.
Tom’s career journey saw him spend 18 years in community services in both Sydney and Adelaide, before joining the family business 4 years ago. This background has equipped him with valuable skills in management and leadership that Tom now applies to his current role.
Grundy’s Shoes faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, however, their online operations played a crucial role in sustaining the business.. The importance of adaptability has been key, balancing the tradition of their original stores with the growing importance of digital channels. Working in a family business often requires employees to wear “two hats” - one as a family member and another as a company director.
“One of the challenges of being in the family business is making hard decisions, and when your family's involved, those decisions can be difficult”.
To strengthen the business's governance and plan for the future, Tom and his cousin Damien, the current CEO with 30 years of experience, participated in the Small Business Fundamentals Program, delivered by the Family Business Association. Despite their extensive industry knowledge, Tom and Damien recognised gaps in areas including governance, strategic planning and succession planning.
Historically, being a family-owned business, roles were simply handed down; however the program highlighted the need for a structured approach to ensure smooth transitions into roles and long-term sustainability. This newly formed structure and framework was shared with staff, reinforcing the alignment across the company.
“Participating in the program has strengthened our business operations and has allowed us to plan for future, well-governed growth”.
Tom is dedicated to ensuring Grundy’s is in a strong position for the next generations as the family business continues to grow. Tom highly recommends the Small Business Fundamentals Program to other family owned and run businesses. Not only did he gain valuable knowledge but also key networking opportunities with like minded individuals. He believes no business is too established to benefit from fresh insights, ultimately supporting the growth and development of staff and the overall business.
As a proud family-owned business, Grundy’s is passionate about providing their customers with quality and comfortable shoes. Tom looks forward to the future of the business with seventh, and an anticipated eighth generation, to join the team.
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Dr Anisha Sanghavi
