Early Life and Education
Jason Smith founded the Back In Motion Health Group in 1999, starting from humble beginnings in his garage. His journey began after returning to work from a long service leave, only to find a rift between his teams that revealed cracks in the organizational culture. With a background in healthcare and a strong commitment to challenging the status quo, Jason set out to redefine leadership within his organization.
Leadership Philosophy
Smith believes that the best form of leadership is rooted in truth, transparency, and respectful candor. He has fostered a workplace culture that encourages healthy debate and diverse viewpoints, essential for identifying effective strategies. However, upon his return, he noticed a shift towards a more hierarchical and egocentric management style that undermined this culture. Recognizing the need for change, Jason understood that his leadership approach must evolve to restore the team dynamics.
Organizational Challenges
During his absence, an undesirable management style took hold, characterized by a top-down, command-and-control approach. This shift created a toxic atmosphere where communication broke down, and staff felt disempowered. Jason was determined to change this environment, acknowledging that ownership does not equate to effective leadership. His objective was clear: to implement innovative leadership practices that would reinvigorate the organization’s culture.
The Leadership Revolution
Jason recognized two types of change: evolution and revolution. He opted for the latter, deciding that the organization needed a complete overhaul of its leadership ethos. He initiated a leadership revolution that emphasized collaboration, visibility, and fairness. By focusing on empowerment rather than hierarchy, Jason aimed to create a more inclusive and engaged workplace where employees felt valued and respected.
Achievements and Impact
Under Jason’s leadership, Back In Motion grew to become Australia’s largest and fastest-growing provider of physiotherapy and related services, operating over 140 locations across Australia and New Zealand. His innovative approach earned him significant recognition, including being named the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2013 and ranking No. 2 in the Top Franchise Executive list in 2019.
Jason’s entrepreneurial spirit led to the successful creation, growth, and sale of various healthcare brands, including Actif (occupational health) and Revita (aged care). He merged Back In Motion with the ASX-listed allied health parent Healthia, marking one of the largest transactions in the sector.
Community Engagement and Leadership
Beyond his business accomplishments, Jason actively contributes to the community and industry. He is involved in peak bodies, community organizations, and CEO groups, sharing his vision and expertise on leadership, strategy, and governance. He serves on multiple corporate and not-for-profit boards, advocating for a philanthropic approach in business.
Publications and Insights
In his book, Outside-In Upside-Down Leadership, Jason shares insights on organizational change and the importance of personal integrity and decisive leadership. He discusses the balance between risk and growth, emphasizing the need to embrace technological advancements while remaining aligned with the core values of the organization.
Conclusion
Jason Smith’s journey from a garage startup to leading a revolutionary health organization exemplifies his commitment to innovative leadership and community engagement. His experiences and insights serve as an inspiration to aspiring leaders in the healthcare sector and beyond, proving that effective leadership is about fostering a culture of transparency, collaboration, and empowerment.
