Client story Glenn Maxton, Founder of Laguna Pools. When Glenn Maxton founded Laguna Pools, he wasn’t just building pools—he was creating experiences. What started as a group of tradesmen focused on quality work quickly grew into something bigger: a business built on passion, strong relationships, and a commitment to excellence. But as Laguna Pools expanded, Glenn realised that taking it to the next level required a shift—from being a skilled technician to becoming a true business owner. That’s where Kearney Group came in. Through our Ko-Lab program and integrated financial advice, we helped Glenn, Fiona and their family navigate the complexities of business ownership, from financial strategy and leadership development. Today, Laguna Pools thrives not just as a business, but as a community—one that brings joy to families and continues to grow with confidence and clarity. Transformational stories. Glenn Maxton, Founder of Laguna Pools Client since 2009 From technician to business owner. When Glenn Maxton founded Laguna Pools, he wasn’t just building pools—he was creating experiences. What started as a group of tradesmen focused on delivering quality work quickly grew into something bigger: a business built on passion, strong relationships, and a commitment to excellence. “We were just a group of tradesmen going about our business, trying to do quality work for our clients,” Glenn recalls. “But there was this unsettling feeling that we could be doing more.” That feeling marked a turning point. Glenn realised that for Laguna Pools to grow, he needed to step beyond his role as a technician and fully embrace being a business owner. The shift to business leadership. Taking that step wasn’t easy. Running a business requires more than just technical expertise—it demands strategy, leadership, and financial foresight. That’s where Kearney Group stepped in. Going through our Ko-Lab Business Strategy Program, Glenn felt a shift in his mindset and approach. “Kearney challenged me as a leader to look at things from a business owner’s perspective, not just from a technician’s,” he says. By working through business structure, financial planning, and long-term vision, Laguna Pools was able to evolve from a team of skilled tradesmen into a well-rounded, strategic business with a clear path forward. Integration that creates balance. Success in business is deeply connected to personal life, and Glenn credits Kearney Group’s integrated financial advice with creating stability at home as well. “There’s been so much symmetry harmony that’s been created through having basically a one-stop shop for all our financial needs,” says Glenn. “We would not live in the house we live in now or have the success we do if we didn’t have that full integration.” And his enthusiasm is echoed by his other half, Fiona who says the financial complexities of running a household while managing a growing business can easily become overwhelming but “Kearney Group has been able to guide and advise us in such a supportive way.” “We wouldn’t be where we are without Kearney Group’s guidance,” says Fiona. The power of time and focus. Like many small business owners, Glenn found managing his time a real challenge. Between operations, leading a growing team, and making strategic decisions, there just weren’t enough hours in the day. Add to that the time-crunch of life with a young family, and the pressure was building. Our activity-based budgets and detailed financial modelling, however, helped Glenn to see the way through and make smart, data-driven decisions. “Kearney Group has really helped me make sure I’m using my time productively,” he says. “That’s been one of the biggest game-changers.” Laguna Pools: bringing joy. Today, Laguna Pools is more than just a pool builder—it’s a brand that delivers joy to families across Australia. By combining technical excellence with strong leadership and sound financial strategy, Glenn has built a business that is not only successful but also deeply fulfilling. “We’re really lucky that we get to work in a lifestyle environment and bring joy to families,” he says. With the right foundation in place, the future of Laguna Pools is brighter than ever. And for Glenn, that means continuing to do what he loves—creating experiences that last a lifetime.
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