A Legacy of Leadership and Sustainable Growth
Accru Harris Orchard in Adelaide has worked with McArthur for over 40 years. Founded in 1969 by John McArthur, the company has grown from its roots in Adelaide into one of Australia’s most respected recruitment and temporary staffing firms, now operating as a national enterprise with six offices, over 200 internal staff, and more than 6,500 people employed each year.
In this episode of Owner Insights, James Orchard, Managing Director of Accru Harris Orchard sits down with Matthew McArthur, Executive Director of McArthur, to explore the company’s journey of sustainable growth, long-term thinking, and leadership that has stood the test of time.
How McArthur Built a Business To Last
In the episode, Matthew shared stories of building the business from the ground up – literally constructing partition walls for interview rooms with his siblings – and reflected on the lasting influence of his father, who remained Chairman until the age of 95. This legacy of steady leadership and a commitment to sustainable business practices has kept McArthur thriving through economic shifts, global challenges, and a rapidly evolving workforce landscape.
From navigating the challenges of family business dynamics to fostering a truly national culture, Matthew offered insights into leadership, succession, and staying relevant across decades. He also highlighted McArthur’s unique approach to diversification, ensuring the company remained recession-resistant and deeply embedded in the communities it serves.
Listen to the Full Story
To hear more about McArthur’s journey and Matthew’s insights into building a business that stands the test of time, listen to the full episode of Owner Insights. Discover the strategies that helped McArthur expand across six states, build a resilient business model, and remain a trusted leader in recruitment and staffing.
About Owner Insights
Owner Insights is Accru Harris Orchard’s podcast series, hosted by James Orchard. Each episode features candid conversations with successful business owners, sharing the stories behind their growth, challenges, and leadership journeys. From navigating family business dynamics to building resilient companies, the podcast offers real-world lessons for anyone committed to building great businesses.
Explore all episodes of Owner Insights and follow the links to subscribe, to hear more inspiring business stories.
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