Ten Questions in Ten Minutes: With Louise O'Sullivan

Louise O’Sullivan is director of DogHQ, an Auckland based premium dog day care centre.

Business to Business - What inspired you to start up your business?
Louise O’Sullivan - I have had the desire to own my own business for many, many years. Numerous ideas came and went without taking hold. Animals have always been at the centre of my ideas and the source of my passion. This business originated from a personal need as a loving suburban dog owner wanting to provide fully well for my dog’s needs. I saw similar businesses around but knew I could do something more and help others like myself.

BtoB - Who has influenced you the most professionally?
LS - There isn’t one main personal influence. I believe there is something to learn from everyone and every situation. Whether that be a manager, someone you are managing, a customer or a supplier. And it can be as important to learn how not to do things as it is to learn how to.

BtoB - How would you describe yourself as a businessperson?
LS - I would describe myself as a very driven business person with a clear vision and an open mind. If you have a good idea of what, why and ideally when, the how will always reveal itself.

BtoB - What do you consider your greatest achievement?
LS - Hiring amazing people. I could not have achieved what I have so far without them so their selection is my greatest achievement.

BtoB - With hindsight, what is the one thing you would do differently?
LS - If I had my time again, I would have won lotto first. At least it seems I have attracted a bit of beginners luck!

BtoB - Who do you find inspirational and why?
LS - I find anyone who beats the odds to achieve their goals very inspirational. Those that face huge barriers but who achieve through pure belief and hard work and who achieve far more than the majority of us who should find it easier. There is plenty of real life inspiration out there.