Speedy Business Success For Dave Stevens and Brennan IT

Dave Stevens, F1 driver and founder of Brennan IT, explains why running a business isn’t all that different from achieving the perfect lap on the racetrack.

DB: How and when did you get into racing driving? 
DS: I started racing in 2003, but got heavily into cars in 2001. I’ve driven a mixture of sports cars: Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Lotus, and some open wheelers too, Formula Ford and Formula 3.

DB: What do you drive? 
DS: In the Australian GT Championships I drive a stunning Ferrari F430 Challenge. I have had lots of race cars but this is definitely the most capable, good looking and fun to drive.

DB: What car do you drive off the racetrack? 
DS: I drive a Porsche  911 Turbo. It’s good for dropping the kids off to school and is also a weapon!

DB: What has been your biggest achievement on the racetrack so far? 
DS: I would have to say taking third place in three races at this year’s Australian F1 Grand Prix. Although they were only third places, they happened after a break of 18 months and were also in front of my wife and 70,000 other fans! We got to do the whole podium presentation, champagne spraying and press conference. Awesome fun. This all took place in front of the corporate box of our newest sponsor, NEC. So a great weekend!

DB: What has been your biggest achievement with Brennan so far? 
DS: Maintaining a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 40-plus percent over 10 years and a CAGR of 80-plus percent profitability over the same time. We have built an exceptional business that is able to grow its revenue rapidly over a long period of time and still keep record levels of profitability. This is a unique result.

DB: How do you fit your racing commitments around your day job? 
DS: I’m lucky that the management team at Brennan is capable of running the business on a day-to-day basis and that they don't need me around all of the time. It makes it easier to fit a life in around the hard work and long hours.