In what may be news to some, John Coleman, the man that has been at the forefront of the strata industry for over 30 years, has retired. Whether he was undertaking his role as General Manager at Express Glass or authoring ‘From the Ground Up’, the definitive story of strata in NSW, John Coleman has always proudly represented our industry. Now as the quiet titan of the strata industry retires, we reflect on a phenomenal career and say thanks.
For the past 37 years John has been an integral part of Express Glass becoming a respected pillar of the Strata industry known for his integrity, expertise and kindness.
“Over the years, John has been not only a colleague and mentor, but, most importantly, a great mate,” says Mark Jennings, Express Glass Commercial Manager. “He’s left an indelible mark on everyone he’s worked with, not just in terms of his incredible work ethic, but also his ability to be a respected team player who’s been approachable and always willing to help.”
John began his career as a high school history teacher in the 1980s before a chance encounter with Express Glass founder Keith Grocott changed the trajectory of his career. Keith offered John a 12-month sabbatical from teaching to try his hand in the glass industry, leading to a diverse role that saw John doing everything from handling payroll to business development.
John eventually took on the role of General Manager at Express Glass, and it was there that his natural leadership and business acumen began to shine. In the two decades that followed, John focused on business development, a role in which he excelled. His contributions fuelled Express Glass’s growth and cemented its reputation as a trusted industry leader, particularly in the Strata sector, where he built solid business relationships spanning over 30 years.
John’s respect and highly regarded reputation in the industry was recognised in 2004 when he won the prestigious Max Dunn Award, an honour that celebrates friendship and harmony in the Strata industry – an industry where John has been a valued mentor to many over the years.
As well as pioneering and organising the SCA NSW Golf Day for over 20 years, John has dedicated his time to various committees and subcommittees of the association. Whilst his love for history and industry made him the perfect candidate for authoring ‘From the Ground Up” the definitive history fo strata in NSW.
“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside John for the past 20 years, and I can honestly say that every minute has been a pleasure,” says Mark Jennings.
“On behalf of Express Glass and SCA NSW, we’d like to acknowledge and wholeheartedly thank John for his years of dedication, passion, loyalty, and hard work. The industry will miss him, although I’m certain the friendships that have been built will continue well into the future.”
