As part of Excite Online Services's strategic plan, a CEO has been appointed to lead the company into the future including expansion into the US and an IPO.
Newly appointed CEO, Justin Hanka says;
"Excite Online Services already has strong fundamentals and has the discipline of self funding its own profitable growth – quite unusual in the online and digital space and what I believe makes our company attractive to the investment community".
Mr Hanka, in his previous role as COO with iSelect.com.au, Australia's largest online comparison site is credited for much of its early growth. As COO, he turned significant losses experienced in the early 2000's into revenues beyond $60 million during his tenure that now exceed $100 million.
"It's all about having the right revenue model, great people and clever marketing".
After iSelect, Mr Hanka as the company's CEO teamed up with investors behind helpmechoose.com.au who had created a similar comparison site with a home loans focus as a challenger brand in the Australian market. The company successfully negotiated a trade sale after its rapid growth attracted buyer ASX listed Mortgage Choice (MOC).
"When you have dealt with the challenges faced by the rapid growth of successful online businesses, you know what to look for and continually seek ways to do it better", said Mr Hanka.
"Excite Online Services's expansion plans involve attracting investors to fund new growth projects and an IPO."
"It's a case of understanding the levers to generating leads through traditional and non-traditional media, driving conversion and sales and how to build a company that provides value to customers and an attractive investment to shareholders".
Teaming up with successful entrepreneur Gerrard Giummarra, founder of multiple online businesses including realestate.com.au, bikeexchange.com.au and the brainchild behind Excite Online Services's group of companies has attracted investor attention.
Mr Giummarra was pleased to announce the appointment of the company's new CEO as it signifies the next step in the company's 14 year journey.
"A number of our Online stores are already leaders that dominate their category profitably in Australia and there are many opportunities to make them bigger, cultivate their brands and expand our business".
"This all requires direction and experience. Justin's ability to run successful online businesses is well-proven and together I believe we can take our successful e-commerce and logistics model across broad product categories in Australia and the US"
Mr Hanka's appointment followed Excite Online Services's move in to new state of the art purpose built offices and warehousing facilities in Melbourne.
