Exclusive: In this nine.com.au series, we delve into the minds of Australia’s brightest entrepreneurs, founders, and CEOs to uncover the driving forces behind their success and gather invaluable advice for aspiring business leaders.

Michael Schneider, the Managing Director of Bunnings, initially dreamed of becoming a marine biologist. However, the financial hurdle of high university fees and lack of scholarship opportunities led him to reconsider.

He briefly entertained the idea of becoming a school teacher, but that path didn’t resonate with him either. Instead, he ventured into the world of retail, a field where he found his true calling and never looked back.

Today, Schneider helms one of Australia’s most beloved brands, with Bunnings generating a staggering $18.97 billion in revenue in 2024 alone.

Here, Schneider shares his insights and keys to success.

For most retailers, early mornings are crucial. The demands of trading performance, inventory management, and similar tasks shape our routines from the start of the day.

Retailers tend to be morning people – trading performance, inventory availability and the like tend to form our habits early.

When I’m travelling, early starts are also good for exploring a city or taking in some exercise.

At home, it varies depending on the day.

Sometimes an early workout is great and occasionally a bit more sleep before coffee and a light breakfast can work a treat.

What are three daily habits you always stick to?

Every day can look different for me, whether it’s heading out to stores to hear from our team or looking at an exciting new product to roll out for our customers.

No matter what I’m doing, three daily habits I stick to are:

Lots of Aussies are looking for a career change. What small action can help them get ahead of other candidates?

I’m someone who has made many pivots over the course of my career.

From starting on the shop floor at Target, to studying teaching, working in financial services and then finding my way back to retail, each role has helped shape me as a teammate and leader.

My best career advice would be to take every opportunity to learn and grow, even if it means stepping outside of your comfort zone.

Be proactive in asking questions, seeking feedback and don’t be afraid to put your hand up for new roles or projects.

Sometimes just being curious and taking the smallest step can lead to the biggest change.

What financial myth did you previously believe that you wish you never bought into?

For many of us starting out in our careers, there’s the idea that financial success is about climbing the ladder quickly.

Over time, I’ve learned that resilience and consistency matter more.

Don’t buy into the myth that there’s a shortcut; steady progress and staying true to your values are what really counts.

What do you wish you could tell your 20-year-old self?

I’d tell myself to not worry too much about the future as it will all work out.

Every experience, good and bad, shapes who you become as a leader.

Be open to new opportunities and ideas, and build strong relationships and trust with others which will serve you well throughout your career.