Executive Vice President APAC IMEA Craig Schutte pays tribute to the company and its people as he celebrates 25 years with Gallagher Security

AUSTRALIA – Reflecting on a career spread across continents, Gallagher Security, Executive Vice President for Asia Pacific and India, Middle East, and Africa (APAC and IMEA), Craig Schutte says people have been the cornerstone of his success within the company, as he celebrates 25 years with Gallagher Security today. 

Craig immigrated to Australia from South Africa in 2000 and took up the role of Sales Engineer – Victoria with Gallagher Australia. Since those early days he has held roles as National Business Manager and Strategic Business Manager – Australia before being promoted to General Manager – Australia in 2016. In alignment with Gallagher’s regional growth trajectory, his General Manager’s role expanded to include APAC IMEA before transitioning into his current role as Executive Vice President - APAC IMEA. 

However, his connection to Gallagher pre-dates his arrival in Australia, when in 1994, as the owner of a Channel Partner business in South Africa, the paths first crossed.  

Reflecting on some of the major milestones throughout his career to date, immigrating from South Africa proved a pivotal moment in time. 

He says of the move to Australia, “It was a big move, one which presented a huge opportunity, and one that I’m very grateful for. Upon reflection, that move set me up for success and allowed me to best understand the Gallagher business from the ground up and the complexities of the business and our Channel Partner model. Those learnings have stayed with me and continue to influence my role today.”  

Gallagher Security Chief Executive, Mark Junge says, “I am thrilled to congratulate Craig on an impressive 25 years with Gallagher. Craig's role has evolved remarkably over the years, and as Vice President APAC IMEA he leads dynamic and talented teams across Australia, New Zealand, India, the Middle East, and Africa. Craig's unwavering dedication and commitment to his role and team are truly inspiring. His contributions have been a cornerstone of the success in the APAC IMEA regions. Once again, congratulations on this significant milestone, Craig. It is an honor to work with you.” 

Throughout Craig’s career with Gallagher there have been many achievements and milestones, of note the significant growth across APAC IMEA, both revenue and staff. Craig says his passion for Gallagher and its people continues to serve as the cornerstone of his journey and success within the company – a synergistic sentiment shared with Gallagher’s people-first ethos.  

He also acknowledged the ongoing support of Gallagher President and Executive Director, Sir William Gallagher, Gallagher CEO, Kahl Betham and Gallagher Security, Chief Executive Mark Junge, who he describes as instrumental in his career journey.  

“I am proud of this team, and the culture we have built together, and I think that is positively reflected in the tenure of our staff, many of whom are celebrating more than 15 years with the company. I am passionate about enabling our team to evolve and am committed to lifting our people up and coaching them throughout their careers with Gallagher,” he says. 

And it’s that people first mentality that has also enabled Craig to forge strong, longstanding relationships with Gallagher Channel Partners and End Users throughout his 25 years with the company.  

“I really value the long-lasting friendships and the special culture at Gallagher that fosters these relationships,” he concludes.