Tell us about your business.
Alexander Group was started by my parents, John and Cecile Alexander, back in 1971. It’s a classic family story, they were just a husband-and-wife team in Tamahere, Waikato, focused on grain transport, really just fighting for survival and "putting food on the table." I grew up with the business; the trucks were in the backyard of our house in the early days.
We’ve always been about innovation. My dad created the 'Grain Train' (a special bottom-dumping unit) and developed a sealed tail board for bulk grape cartage that’s still an industry standard. That constant drive to look for a smarter solution is what sets us apart. We transitioned from grain and wine into being a leading specialist in hazardous product logistics, which demands a deep focus on safety and precision. We’re guided by the genuine loyalty that comes from being a family business, but we operate with the professionalism and forward-thinking of a modern, specialised transport logistics company.
What has been your greatest success?
On a company level, one of our most defining moments was winning a major distribution contract for the South Island. It required us to manage a vast network and consolidate a fuel transport fleet into one streamlined, 24/7 operation. Successfully executing that deal marked a huge leap for us, it was the moment we transitioned from a successful local family business into a serious, large-scale corporate player in the specialist logistics space.
That era also happened to be my entry point into the company. After spending a decade in social work, I joined the business right as we were navigating this rapid expansion and change. Working alongside my brother, Rod, we had to quickly develop our expertise in the dangerous goods industry. Getting through that period of intense growth and transformation is definitely a success I'm proud of, both personally and professionally.
What do you value about FBA?
I really appreciate that running a family business comes with a set of challenges that are totally unique. Family Business Association is an incredible resource because it gives us a space where those challenges are actually understood and celebrated.
Leading a family business can sometimes feel a bit isolating, but FBA brings you into a network of people who genuinely get the complexities of succession, governance, and balancing family relationships with business demands. FBA champions the 'Family Advantage,' which is our ability to be agile and focused on deep, lasting relationships. It is great to be a member alongside my two siblings who both work in the company also.
What advice would you give to other family businesses?
Live your values, never stop innovating, and plan for the future.
You have to be authentic. We have company values like 'Cultivating Family' and always striving to 'Do The Right Thing.' Our loyalty from customers and our long-term stability stem directly from operating with those principles every day.
My father taught us that success is about "picking up on opportunities as they arise" and finding smarter solutions. If you’re not willing to adapt, you risk being left behind.
Finally, invest in governance and the next generation. A structured approach to succession planning is vital. We’ve found that bringing in fresh perspectives and unconventional backgrounds (like my own in social work) can provide the diverse thought needed to succeed in our ever-changing industry.
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