Aussie Software-as-a-Service star invests in the future: new Board boasts 7 Network Deputy Chairman, Peter Ritchie AO

SYDNEY (May 21, 2009) Australia’s leading e-training provider, Workstar has recently implemented a number of changes to reaffirm its position as the leading on-line training and communications software provider in Australia.

The business is a pioneer of e-training and e-recruitment in Australia having commenced trading (as Enfo) in 2002 and quickly establishing itself as an industry leader.

Over recent months the business has implemented a new Board of Directors that includes Chairman, Peter Ritchie AO, who is also Deputy Chairman of the 7 Network, Chairman of Mortgage Choice and the man behind the success of McDonalds Australia.

The other directors are Phil Kiely, former CEO of Oracle Australasia, and Richard Norgard, CEO of Jigsaw Capital.
 
Mike Erlin was appointed to the role of CEO late last year. Mike brings with him with over 10 years experience working for publicly listed businesses operating in the on-line education and corporate training sectors in the United States and Australia.

“The business grew very big, very quickly and this often presents challenges,” said Workstar CEO, Mike Erlin. “The company had moved away from its on-line heritage to become a major player in the RTO arena, managing face-to-face training.”

“Re-focusing on Workstar’s core strengths, the things that made us a best-practice and award winning business in the first place, was the clear choice and biggest value to customers and shareholders. This decision led to a 2008 restructure and sale of the RTO business.” he said.

“We have re-doubled our efforts to provide the best possible e-training and on-line communications solutions because it’s what we are known for and we do it very well. “

“Workstar delivers high-impact, high ROI training solutions using our Orion technology. Orion’s ability to be configured differently for different customers and their needs makes it a very powerful and ‘must-have’ business tool.  This capability is a key differentiator in our market.”

Peter Ritchie first invested in the business in 2005 and, as part of the recent restructure, decided to increase his investment and take on a more hands-on role with the business.

He was honoured with an Order of Australia in 2003, largely for his contributions to training of people in Australia’s retail industry. McDonald’s grew to over 500 stores and 50,000 employees during Ritchie’s time as CEO.

“I’ve learnt some critical lessons about training and its impact on revenue and profitability,” Mr Ritchie said. “Mike and his new team are focused on the customer and their business which is a definite recipe for success.”

For further information or to speak with Peter Ritchie or Mike Erlin please contact Steven Craig on 0430 58 00 84