Since joining DEUTZ Australia in early 2024, Elaine Chan has made it a priority to immerse herself in the engine industry. To deepen her understanding, she has spent time in the DEUTZ workshop at Dandenong, speaking with experts about the various types of engines and their applications.
“I’m never embarrassed to ask questions if I don’t know something. Nobody can be an expert in everything, so I always ask questions and learn a lot from the people around me. That’s how your build your knowledge and skillset,” says Elaine.
“I’ve never touched an engine before but I’ve been in the workshop asking why we do this or use a certain type of engine and it has been fascinating to learn something new every day. I like to be stretched and challenged – that keeps life interesting!”
Since graduating from RMIT University with qualifications in accounting and business management, Elaine has held senior managerial positions in a raft of companies including businesses that manufacture auto components, tissue paper, garage doors, grating and, most recently, pharmaceuticals.
Her decision to study accounting was driven by Elaine’s interest in business and her understanding of the importance of good accounting practices to help businesses survive and thrive.
“I have always been drawn to manufacturing and I quickly realised that management accounting plays a crucial role in that space. No matter the size of the business, having a skilled set can make all the difference in driving performance and supporting growth,” says Elaine.
Prior to joining DEUTZ Australia, Elaine spent six years at Sypharma Pty Ltd and was CEO and Managing Director for most of that time.
“Working in pharmaceuticals was a highlight for me – not just because of the industry’s complexity, but because Australia’s standards are among the highest in the world. It pushed me to grow and learn constantly. What really draws me to manufacturing though is the magic of transformation. You begin with a mix of raw material or components, each with its own purpose, and through skill, precision and process, you create something entirely new. Watching that evolution unfold is endlessly fascinating,” says Elaine.
Now at DEUTZ Australia, Elaine is continuing to expand her industry skills and knowledge and her arrival has coincided with a period of ongoing expansion. She is also currently completing a Master of Business Administration with the Australian Institute of Management.
She says the next few years are going to be an exciting time for DEUTZ Australia.
“We are growing and our plan for the next five years is to triple the size of the business. There are plenty of plans to grow, acquire more businesses and to set up interstate branches,” she explains.
“Last year we set up a branch in Toowoomba in Queensland because there was demand there. We want to do the same in Sydney and also in Brisbane so we can expand our services. There will be plenty of organic growth in the next two to three years.”
When she isn’t at work, Elaine likes to exercise and travel, although squeezing in overseas trips when she has a busy working life can be a challenge.
“Last year, for our 30th wedding anniversary, my husband surprised me by booking a trip to France. It was beautiful, but for the first week I had to go to the hotel lobby at 2am each morning and hold budget meetings with my colleagues back in Australia. It was an important time in the financial year and I had to liaise with the team,” she laughs.
“My favourite destination is Japan – I love the food and the culture and the people are nice. Maybe when I eventually retire, I will live there.”