#115 Jim Penman - Founder of Jim's Group

In this episode, I interview Jim Penman - Founder of Jim's Group. Since launching Jim's Mowing in 1982, Jim's Group has become Australia's largest franchise network, spanning more than 50 service divisions and over 5,500 franchisees. As of 2025, Jim’s Group generates over $1 billion in annual turnover.

Throughout the discussion, Jim shares his early experience of completing his PhD before facing the challenge of finding a career in academia and choosing to grow his mowing business instead. He highlights that his franchisees are his top priority. He explains how he works closely and directly with them to help them succeed and he also discusses the importance of people in business who are hands-on and curious.  

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Jim also shares his book recommendations list, which can be accessed at https://jimpenman.com.au/book-recommendations/

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Chapters

• 0:00 #115 Jim Penman
• 2:29 Jim's Early Days
• 4:34 Balancing Business and Academia
• 7:09 Building Jim's Business
• 11:13 How Jim Helps Franchisees Reach Success
• 14:23 Technology and Franchises
• 17:01 Jim's Biggest Strengths and Weaknesses
• 20:28 Investors and Cash Flow
• 24:13 The Key Traits Jim Looks For in People for His Business
• 30:23 Younger Generations and Success
• 37:03 Business People Who Jim Admires and Why
• 38:47 Jim's Favourite Type of Books
• 40:18 The Influential People in Jim's Life
• 46:54 The Advice Jim Would Give to People
• 49:13 What's Next for Jim's Group