From being a farmer’s son studying at St Colman’s Marist College (now Notre Dame College) in Shepparton to representing the Australia and Asia division of Campbell Soup Company internationally, Mick’s life has been full of unexpected and amazing opportunities and many lessons learned.

Developing the independence that comes from growing up in a country town, the great education he received and the intellect that he was naturally born with prepared Mick for a career like not many others.

Mick started working for Campbell's in the office answering the phone orders from supermarkets and ended up as a managing director for the Australia and Asia division of the international company. In his first senior position at age 28, he was partly responsible for a company of more than 3000 employees and working with more than $300 million of business.

“Just do the best you can at whatever you are doing.”

After working in Shepparton for 20 years with the company, he moved to Melbourne city and sought out the best schools for their children and family. That's when Mick O'Brien and wife Lynne came back into the Marcellin community.

With work, he travelled across to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania representing Australia and Asia quite often. After some time at the company, Mick left because he could recognise the 'ways that the wheels where turning' in regards to technology and centralisation. Since then, Mick has been spending his time in consultancy of small businesses. Through getting involved in the business through finance and helping out in many varied industries.

Throughout the interview, Mick O'Brien shares his experience with centralisation of business operations and utilising his skills and experience to pursue a meaningful life. He gives advice to people looking at a complete shutdown or a pivot in their business as a result of COVID-19 and shares some insight into employment opportunities after this year.