Remembering the life of top Australian businessman David Crawford (80)
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The Australian business community is in mourning following the sudden passing of one of its most esteemed leaders, David Crawford, at the age of 80.
Known for his sharp business acumen and influential role in both the corporate and sporting worlds, Crawford's death marks the end of an era for Australian industry and governance.
David Crawford's journey to the pinnacle of Australia's corporate landscape began at Melbourne's prestigious Scotch College, laying the foundation for a career that would see him become a dominant figure in the nation's business sector.
His tenure at consulting firm KPMG, which spanned three decades, was marked by his rise to prominence in the aftermath of the 1987 sharemarket crash.
Crawford led major corporate insolvency actions, particularly against notorious tycoons Alan Bond and Christopher Skase.
Crawford's influence extended far beyond the consulting world. He chaired some of Australia's most well-established commercial sector companies, including National Foods, Foster's Group, and BHP's mining spin-off South32. His strategic vision also played a pivotal role in the growth of property giant Lendlease.
Beyond these chairmanships, Crawford held directorship positions at both BHP and Westpac.
However, Crawford's impact was not confined to boardrooms and balance sheets. His passion for education, the arts, and sports led him to serve as a council member and chairman of Scotch College, as well as chairing the Australian Ballet.
His love for sports was evident in his long-standing involvement with the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC), where he held various positions, including Treasurerin 2001 and Vice President in 2009.
Perhaps one of Crawford's most significant contributions to Australian sports was his role in the Independent Soccer Review Committee.
The 'Crawford report’, published in 2003, catalysed a major overhaul in the governance and funding of soccer in Australia, leading to lasting changes in the sport's administration.
His insights also led to reforms in AFL and cricket, further solidifying his legacy as a transformative figure in Australian sports.
In recognition of his outstanding service to the nation, Crawford was made an Officer of the Order of Australia in the 2009 Queen's Birthday Honours.
The MCC's tribute to Crawford highlighted his humility and passion, describing him as a 'humble gentleman' whose business savvy and had a love for sports.
'His business acumen and affiliation with sporting bodies such as the AFL and Cricket Australia in his professional career aided in the negotiation of numerous club arrangements during his tenure,' the MCC said in a statement.
'David was deeply respected by his peers, who often admired his common-sense approach to navigating challenges and his commitment to excellence.’
'David was an integral part of the Melbourne Cricket Club community, and he will be deeply missed,’ the statement concluded.
David Crawford's departure from his chairmanship roles at Lendlease and South32 in recent years marked the beginning of the end of an illustrious career. His legacy, however, will continue to influence the realms he touched.
As the Australian business and sporting communities come to terms with this loss, Crawford's family, including his wife Maureen and their three children, prepare to honour his life at a funeral service at Scotch College in Melbourne.
As we reflect on Crawford's remarkable life and career, we extend our deepest condolences to his family and all who were fortunate enough to know and work with him.
Known for his sharp business acumen and influential role in both the corporate and sporting worlds, Crawford's death marks the end of an era for Australian industry and governance.
David Crawford's journey to the pinnacle of Australia's corporate landscape began at Melbourne's prestigious Scotch College, laying the foundation for a career that would see him become a dominant figure in the nation's business sector.
His tenure at consulting firm KPMG, which spanned three decades, was marked by his rise to prominence in the aftermath of the 1987 sharemarket crash.
Former Lendlease chair and top businessman David Crawford passed away at 80. Credit: Melbourne Cricket Club
Crawford led major corporate insolvency actions, particularly against notorious tycoons Alan Bond and Christopher Skase.
Crawford's influence extended far beyond the consulting world. He chaired some of Australia's most well-established commercial sector companies, including National Foods, Foster's Group, and BHP's mining spin-off South32. His strategic vision also played a pivotal role in the growth of property giant Lendlease.
Beyond these chairmanships, Crawford held directorship positions at both BHP and Westpac.
However, Crawford's impact was not confined to boardrooms and balance sheets. His passion for education, the arts, and sports led him to serve as a council member and chairman of Scotch College, as well as chairing the Australian Ballet.
His love for sports was evident in his long-standing involvement with the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC), where he held various positions, including Treasurerin 2001 and Vice President in 2009.
Perhaps one of Crawford's most significant contributions to Australian sports was his role in the Independent Soccer Review Committee.
The 'Crawford report’, published in 2003, catalysed a major overhaul in the governance and funding of soccer in Australia, leading to lasting changes in the sport's administration.
His insights also led to reforms in AFL and cricket, further solidifying his legacy as a transformative figure in Australian sports.
In recognition of his outstanding service to the nation, Crawford was made an Officer of the Order of Australia in the 2009 Queen's Birthday Honours.
The MCC's tribute to Crawford highlighted his humility and passion, describing him as a 'humble gentleman' whose business savvy and had a love for sports.
'His business acumen and affiliation with sporting bodies such as the AFL and Cricket Australia in his professional career aided in the negotiation of numerous club arrangements during his tenure,' the MCC said in a statement.
'David was deeply respected by his peers, who often admired his common-sense approach to navigating challenges and his commitment to excellence.’
'David was an integral part of the Melbourne Cricket Club community, and he will be deeply missed,’ the statement concluded.
David Crawford's departure from his chairmanship roles at Lendlease and South32 in recent years marked the beginning of the end of an illustrious career. His legacy, however, will continue to influence the realms he touched.
As the Australian business and sporting communities come to terms with this loss, Crawford's family, including his wife Maureen and their three children, prepare to honour his life at a funeral service at Scotch College in Melbourne.
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