BoSP Melbourne recap – business structure and planning
On 26 March 2025, the ACA Vic/Tas Branch’s Business of Small Practice (BoSP) forum held their second event in Melbourne at the Metz Tile Gallery in Collingwood. The event focused on ‘Business Structure and Planning’ and brought together architects and practice leaders to explore strategies for building sustainable, purpose-driven practices.
Facilitated by Kieran Benson from Kirby Architects, our panellists of experienced professionals were –
- Shae Parker McCashen – Founding Director of sustainable residential architecture firm Green Sheep Collective, who shared her evolution from a one-person purpose driven practice into a business with clear company structure and systems;
- Ross Clark – Business coach and founder of WhyWhatHow, with a background in architecture practice of all sizes, emphasising the importance of defining a firm’s purpose and vision; and
- Toby Ewert – Co-founder of Ewert Leaf and Landchecker, who shared experiences on business growth, team integration and succession planning.
HIGHLIGHTS
Throughout the forum, several key discussion points resonated with the audience:
Defining purpose and brand identity
The speakers detailed how a clearly defined purpose can shape every aspect of a practice – from its operational systems and financial management to the way it communicates with clients and staff. The panellists stressed that a compelling “Why” isn’t just about a logo or brand image; it’s about including your purpose and core values in your business decisions and direction.
Transitioning from a reactive to a proactive business approach
The panellists explored the shift from a reactive mode, being design led and trying to cover costs, to developing a proactive, strategic mindset behind their businesses. They recounted personal journeys of moving from early opportunistic practices to establishing structured processes that helped them manage growth, set realistic goals, and maintain control over their business outcomes. They emphasised the importance of early and ongoing business planning and surrounding themselves with networks they could learn from and experts they could engage to support business functions and systems.
Team engagement and strategic involvement
A common theme was the value of communicating business strategy to staff and involving them in the business planning process. The panellists described how practices can create environments that not only foster creativity but also ensure staff have sound business knowledge, appropriate prioritisation, and an understanding of broader strategic goals. One of the outcomes of such involvement is helping staff feel more connected to the firm’s vision and it ultimately helps supports long-term growth.
Growth and succession planning
The speakers challenged the conventional view of growth as merely expanding staff numbers or project size and type. Instead, they argued that growth can be measured by improving operational systems, learning better financial management and HR practices, how to better support staff wellbeing and overall learning how to better manage your practice into the future. Succession planning was highlighted as critical. Establishing a clear plan for leadership and ownership early on supports staff development, makes future ownership changes more affordable, and helps preserve the firm’s values and direction beyond its founders.
The atmosphere at our second BoSP event was brilliant, with an engaged audience who participated enthusiastically during the Q&A and stayed on after the panel to chat with speakers and to mingle. Thanks to our event sponsor Metz Tile Gallery, our terrific speakers Shae, Toby and Ross, facilitator Kieran, our amazing BoSP planning committee and chief organisers Kieran and Katherine Ygosse.
Two attendees shared their thoughts on the event.
“Last night saw a broad cross section in experience from our profession, attend BoSP 2. The speakers focused on ‘Business Structure and Planning’, including identifying goals and having the right support when setting up a practice. Most importantly I thought, was creating a positive environment for your staff, to grow and contribute in a satisfying way to the practice goals. Thanks to Metz Tiles for their hospitality, creative space and informative product displays.” — Warren McVean, Director, Studio 35 Architecture.
“Ross, Shae, and Toby formed an inspiring panel of industry leaders who articulated the importance of so many key aspects of establishing and running an architecture practice.
Ross emphasised the distinction between thinking of ourselves as practitioners vs a business and how this mindset shift can make a big difference. Shae explained the relevance of knowing your purpose, values and vision so that you can make good business decisions and provide parameters for team members to thrive. Toby discussed succession planning and the importance of having an exit strategy, no matter how small or large your business is. A quote from Ross that sums up so much of the panel’s discussion in relation to growth, planning, strategy and succession – ‘Be the future you’.” — Jane Merrylees, Director, Merrylees Architecture
The BoSP forum continues to be a valuable resource for architects navigating the complexities of small practice management. By fostering a community of shared knowledge and support, BoSP events are another resource that helps empower practitioners to build sustainable, purpose-driven businesses.