SharkPod #72 ”Reinventing Waste Collection and Technology” - John O’Connor CEO Kollect

What is up SharkNation!

This week, Luke and Mark chat to waste tech entrepreneur John O'Connor on his growing waste management business (Kollect.ie) and how he is building a business that affects every household and business in Ireland.

The guys talk about alternative business financing strategies and how Kollect launched an IPO in Sweden's Nasdaq branded stock exchange. They talk about the benefits of going public so early and how it made them grow up as a business and focus.

 

Key takeaways:

1. Entrepreneurial success is not usually a straight line exercise: John talks about starting businesses in different industries - night clubs, gyms and even a Subway franchise, before he found the industry that worked for him.

 

2. A mix of skills is the key to effectiveness in a management team: John describes the three founders of Kollect and how they leverage their individual strengths to propel the business forward. 

 

3. Grow up ASAP: The best thing about going public early on is John and the management team was forced to build a grown up business with a board, structures and controls. They are now set up to scale. They would have had to do this at some time in the future, but by doing this early they can get on with the task of growing the business.

 

4. Do something you are passionate about: There are so many problems to fix. Picking an industry that annoys you and making it better is a great way to generate opportunities for yourself. John has been scratching his own itch throughout his business journey and this has led him to building a disruptive business in an industry ripe for evolution. 

You can learn more about John and Kollect here: kollect.ie

For Feedback you can reach out to the lads here: Luke@Shark.ie

Keep Moving Forward!