Leading Australian businessman with a passion for helping budding entrepreneurs build successful businesses
As one of Australia’s leading entrepreneurs in the field of veterinary science, Dr Glen Richards is best known as the founding Managing Director of Greencross and co-founder and Director of Mammoth Pet Holdings Pty Ltd (Petbarn) before the merger.
Raised on a grazing property in Queensland, Glen developed an early passion for animals after being surrounded by his parents’ farm animals. He studied Veterinary Science at the University of Queensland, and would later go on to complete his master’s degree at James Cook University.
At the age of 27, Glen began his professional career by purchasing a small vet practice in Townsville. In less than 10 short years, his successful practice would expand into five vet clinics and a large pet store in Townsville. He is also no stranger to international business, having established two veterinary hospitals in China as well. It’s no wonder than Glen would be able to build a multi-million dollar pet care empire, with a portfolio of more than 160 veterinary hospitals across Australia and New Zealand.
In addition to his veterinary practice, Glen has also developed Australasia’s leading specialty pet care retailer Greencross. With more than 230 stores operating under the brand names Petbarn, City Farmers and Animates, the business employs over 5500 animal-loving employees across Australia and New Zealand, including veterinarians, nurses, retail team members and managers.
Moving away from his executive role in the company, Glen continues to use his corporate expertise as a professional investor, mentor, and director. Currently the Chairman of Healthia Pty Ltd and People Infrastructure, Glen is also on the board of ASX listed companies Greencross, People Infrastructure and Regeneus. He is passionate about helping develop the health sector by scaling up health and allied health companies. In addition to this, he is actively involved with Montserrat Day Hospitals, SmartClinics medical centres, and Clinician Connect.
Known nationally for his involvement in the beloved TV series Shark Tank, Glen continues to help foster early-stage businesses through active mentoring, investing and strategic planning. He is a strong voice for the business community, with regular speaking engagements to help inspire budding business owners with his V4P message (Vision, Planning, People, Patience, Passion).