Andrew
In 2009, Andrew Cocks was asked to take on the role of Executive Director of Richardson & Wrench, Australia’s oldest real estate agency, and transform it into the 21st century. In that time, he has instigated a total brand overhaul, restructured the management and operations, introduced new digital technologies, implemented new marketing tools, restructured and reskilled the National Support Services, re-engaged the network and added 25 new offices in NSW and Queensland.
To achieve this level of change, Andrew has drawn on years of experience in business, franchising, brand development, marketing and project management.
His professional life began as an officer in the Australian Army after graduating from the Royal Military College, Duntroon as a civil engineer. His military career saw him undertake command roles in construction, infrastructure development, project management in Australia and overseas before moving to the private sector.
From 1991 to 2002, Andrew spearheaded the development of Thredbo Ski Resort as the Property and Development Manager for the Head Lessee, Kosciusko Thredbo Pty Ltd, after which he was appointed Executive Manager before spending four years of the Chief Executive Officer. During this period Kosciusko Thredbo achieved record sales and profit as well as increasing its market share by 10 per cent, an achievement largely due to astute brand positioning and marketing.
In 2002 he was appointed Deputy Managing Director of the publicly listed parent company AHL Hospitality & Leisure Division with responsibilities including the management and development of Rydges Hotels and Resorts, Kosciusko Thredbo, the State Theatre and other tourism and hospitality ventures. The Hospitality and Leisure division generated sales exceeding $150 million with more than 6000 employees.
Prior to joining Richardson & Wrench, Andrew became a partner with a national Business Advisory group, advising businesses in strategic planning, commercial restructuring, business leadership and HR / personnel management. In this capacity he has been involved in a number of complex commercial restructurings & workforce integrations and has advised owners and senior management in a range of industries including franchising, real estate, civil construction, tourism operations, manufacturing, accounting, quantity surveying and recruitment.