Gorst Rural is an independent rural business based in Western Victoria, with branches at Lake Bolac, Tatyoon, Willaura and Skipton. With our business growing rapidly we engaged Nigel Hebart to conduct a strategic review of our business in the following key business areas;
-
Business structure including key roles & staffing
-
Operational analysis
-
Branding & company Identity
-
Formulate store layout & retail plans
With this direction Nigel conducted an extensive review of our staff, clients and suppliers, examined our current business procedures and reviewed market data for the market segments we operate in.
​
Throughout this process Nigel was extremely professional and his extensive experience, passion and knowledge inside the agribusiness sector provided an excellent platform to conduct this review and he was not afraid to give us constructive criticism were warranted or new ideas and paradigms.
As a result of Nigel's review we have been able to:
-
Identify our business strengths and ensure we have key staff & structures to support these
-
Look at our local market and identify business & product opportunities
-
Develop a plan to capitalise on these market opportunities
-
Established ‘quick wins’ inside the business- with immediate implementation to change the bottom line swiftly.
-
Identify & implement retail strategies and store layouts
-
Establish key communication areas
-
Established a template for a formal business plan that drives us by month, for the next 12 months, and the next 5 years.
​
Nigel’s clear and well articulated presentation, have allowed the company Directors to define focused strategies to advance the business into the future. It cannot be underrated having a set of experienced, outside eyes to look over your business to help galvanise your thoughts. The review has been enlightening, thought provoking, sobering and enjoyable - and will motivate our business to become a great business.
I cannot recommend Nigel highly enough to any rural based business, that is wanting to take the next step to becoming the best business you can be: Cam Conboy, Managing Director Gorst Rural - Sept'18
We have used Nigel's consultancy to assist us with clients in areas where he has greater expertise than our Company has. In all our interactions I have found Nigel to be extremely professional and passionate about his work and the task at hand.
​
Nigel always delivers within the requested time frame and his subject knowledge is second to none so I have no hesitation in recommending him with complete confidence: Terry Suhan Managing Director TJ Strategies - Aug'18
“Nigel is a dedicated individual, caring for both his customers and the business he is representing. Reliable, dependable and always looking for a win - win outcome for all involved parties. I have had the opportunity to work with Nigel on a number of occasions and highly recommend his skill set & integrity’’: Vincent Guyonnet Managing Director, FFI Consulting Ottawa Canada - Feb'14
We engaged Nigel to facilitate a national bench marking exercise for our group of independent rural retail stores. Sounds simple enough but this was very challenging as every store is different in what they do, how they think and what they value.
​
Nigel designed a process that collected data and information from these stores without fuss. He then collated and analysed this information before presenting the findings back to the group at our national meeting including individual reports for all stores. He facilitated the meeting with experience and skill and the level of engagement was testimony to the positive success of this exercise.
His knowledge, unique skill set and experience in the rural merchandise industry meant that we were able to deliver a high value, in depth, and personalised national bench marking program to our stores.
​
I would strongly encourage anyone involved in the rural merchandise industry to engage with Nigel, as he is an extremely valuable resource who is flexible and very easy to get along with: Sam Stringer National Business Manager NRI - Melb Feb'19
I was recommended to reach out to Nigel from a personal friend, for mentorship and guidance with the development of the veterinary organisation Anipal. Nigel was very welcoming and provides invaluable direction, market insight, business strategy and introductions to important potential partners.
Nigel is very prompt in communication and supportive. I can honestly say that Anipal would not be where it is today without Nigel’s guidance. I strongly recommend Nigel, not only for his outstanding business acumen and insight but also for his lovely and kind nature. He is integral in helping us transition the veterinary industry to more sustainable practices: Dr Stephanie Stubbe, Managing Director Anipal - Syd Sept'19