MEET THE MAESTRO INTERVIEW

Dan - CX, Operations & GTM Leader

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At Maestro, we know there’s more to life than work. In fact, it’s the experiences, relationships and pursuits we have outside of work that can often give us an edge in what we do each day. We are kicking off an interview series called “Meet the Maestro” where we interview our Maestros and get an insight to who they really are and what makes them tick - beyond the CV.

Our Meet the Maestro this week is Dan, a seasoned expert in driving growth by helping business groups refine their Go-To-Market strategies, embed operational excellence and define programs with measurable impact. With over 20 years of experience in the IT industry, including senior consulting and analytics roles at global leaders like Gartner, Microsoft, Oracle and Salesforce. Dan brings a deep and practical understanding of what it takes to accelerate commercial performance.

Dan’s strengths lie in his ability to consult across business groups and geographies, apply sharp analytical thinking and create frameworks that help teams stay focused and accountable. Known for his calm, objective and respectful approach, Dan isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo, especially when it means unlocking better results. Whether he’s coaching on individual deals or contributing to long-term GTM strategy, his agility and clear-headedness make him a go-to for both strategic insight and practical execution.

1. Tell us about a career highlight to date…

I’m most proud of the work I did in the retention space for a research & advisory organisation. Retaining clients on value is something that requires deep understanding of the clients and I was privileged to lead renewal programs with our APJ sales and customer success teams that improved retention outcomes by over 8pts or $2.5M YoY during a tough COVID-19 year. 

I’m really proud of the way we positioned being “helpful” during a time of uncertainty, leading to open conversations around solving timely problems for our customers.

2. Talk us through an unusual career choice you’ve made along the way…

Nothing unusual, but I am a big fan of a “T-shaped” career path. Where you go broad on your understanding of a role to start, then focus on one specific area which becomes the jump off point for your next career arc. 

3. When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be the Prime Minister. Partly because I grew up in Canberra and was exposed to politics at a much earlier age. I think the idea of helping others and service factored into that - but maybe it was the cool Commonwealth cars that hooked me as 5 yr old, also!

4. What are your passions outside of work and how do you make time for them?

Family. I have an amazing wife (Simone) and three great kids. Spending time with them is a luxury that I fully enjoy. Going to their sporting and school events and cajoling them to play more golf with me, which is a passion I have far too little time for!

I also love to run and always make time on Saturday morning for Park run here in the Southern Highlands. Either slogging away or volunteering, it’s a great way to keep active and involved in the community.

5. If you could instantly master any skill or hobby, what would it be and why?

Yo-Yo - sounds crazy but in those downtime moments being able to immerse yourself in a complex, creative set of tricks and moves would be super-satisfying. I’ve learnt a few tricks, but would love to be a master!

6. What’s a personal value or belief that guides the way you live your life?

I have two: 

• Always been a fan of “assume positive intent” which was a great quote from one of my managers at Microsoft. It is super helpful in business and life. People almost never act out of malice, so stepping back to see what that positive intent is, from their point of view, can help identify motives and create a path forward.
• My first manager as an intern gave me the most practical advice. It was “Always buy the cheapest car your ego can afford”. It’s stuck with me in many ways but the most is how humbleness can set you up for success.

7. What’s a challenge you’ve overcome outside of work that shaped you?

Moving to Hong Kong for my 2nd job - stepping way outside my comfort zone and learning a new culture, language (badly) and making a brand new friend group is something I look back on as a turbo-charger for my openness and curiosity in people and the world in general.

8. What do you think your job will look like in 10 years time? 

More conversation and personal connection. With AI helping with summaries, communication and analysis the differentiator in many strategic roles will be the people element. Talking through the “why”. Engaging with customers and partners on a more human basis will drive growth. I see skills in psychology and communications becoming as important as analytic and technical skills are today.

9. If you could travel anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you go and what would you do?

Where’s the next F1 weekend? I’d likely be there with my family enjoying the sounds and spectacle. Immerse ourselves in the culture, meet some interesting new people and share stories about our favourite races and drivers.

10. What does success look like to you?

My family’s success is my success. Seeing them happy, healthy, fulfilled and challenged in whatever they choose to do is the ultimate goal.