John Wall, managing director of Roland DG Australia, and a key member of the Visual Connections Board, will bring to a close over four decades of service to the print industry, stepping down from all positions at the end of August.
During his time in the industry, Wall has not only established himself as an innovator, strategist and commercially-astute businessman, but also as a trusted advisor, mentor and friend to many in the industry.
For Wall, business has always been about partnership. During his time with Roland DG, he developed a reputation for prioritising two-way relationships with customers, not only delivering astute advice and assistance to them, but also listening to their feedback and suggestions, and ensuring that information is considered in future upgrades and product development.
It's Wall's view that “success is all about the team you build around you to help make your goals possible. Every decision should be treated as if it’s your own business.”
Wall has been an integral part of Roland DG for the past 21 years, beginning his journey with as marketing manager, and rising through the ranks to lead the organisation as managing director.
“Throughout his tenure, he demonstrated unwavering dedication and made significant contributions to our growth and development,” the company said in a statement.
“His tenure with Roland DG saw major advancements in technology and significant changes to the market landscape. John took all of this in his stride and, flanked by a local team of long-term employees, was able to meet challenges head on and lead Roland DG Australia to many successes along the way.
“We are deeply grateful for his commitment, leadership, and the legacy he leaves behind. As he embarks on a new chapter in life, we extend our heartfelt appreciation and best wishes for his retirement and future endeavours.”
The Visual Connections team also expressed its appreciation of Wall's service, noting that he has brought the same approach to the Visual Connections Board, not only providing “calm, steady and astute input to Board deliberations”, but extending support and encouragement to his fellow Board Members, and to the operational team, first under Peter Harper and, more recently, Karren Challoner-Miles.
Mitch Mulligan, president of Visual Connections, said Wall has made an “incalculable contribution” to the industry through his role on the Board, where he has held positions as president, vice-president and treasurer.
“John is not only a valued member of our Board, but has become a trusted advisor, supporter and friend,” Mulligan said.
“Sitting on the Visual Connections Board is a voluntary role; there is no payment, and little external recognition of the contributions which are made. The fact that John has served the industry in this way for 20 years – in addition to all the many other things he does – attests to his passion and commitment to the sector. The way he has served, with grace, tenacity, wisdom and humour, speaks volumes about the man himself.
“We are incredibly grateful to have had him on our team for so long. We will miss him enormously as we sit around the Boardroom table, and wish him nothing but good health and happiness as he embarks on his well-earned retirement.”
Karren Challoner-Miles, executive GM of Visual Connections, echoed this sentiment, saying Wall's strong support had been pivotal to the Association’s successful leadership transition at the end of 2024.
“The start of a new era in any organisation is an exciting time, but periods of change also always bring challenges with them,” she acknowledged.
“Having the support of John, and the rest of the Board, as we have navigated through those challenges and set the course for the future, has been absolutely invaluable.
“I know that our entire team will miss having him around, but we are excited for him to finally have the time and space to realise the exciting plans he has for his own future, and look forward to staying in touch.”
Jessie Parker assumed the role of managing director of Roland DG Australia on 1 September.