In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Ryza Garbacz, the second-generation Managing Director of NEACH, a leading Australian steel fabrication and manufacturing company. From humble beginnings in a small Noosa workshop, NEACH has evolved into a powerhouse supplier for some of the nation’s most complex infrastructure projects, championing regional capability and sovereign manufacturing.

Ryza shares his journey from sweeping floors in his family’s factory to managing major tier-one projects across Australia, before returning to transform his family’s 50-year-old business. He reflects on lessons in leadership, authenticity, and the power of building loyalty through developing homegrown talent.

The conversation explores data-driven decision-making, transparent communication, and creating a culture that thrives through change. Ryza also unpacks the resurgence of trades, the transition ahead for Australian manufacturing, and the importance of sustainable growth. He leaves listeners with an inspiring message about legacy, purpose, and building a business that endures beyond yourself.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Leadership and Legacy:

• How Ryza transformed his family’s business into a sustainable, future-focused manufacturer.
• Why true legacy means building something that thrives without you.
• Lessons from 50 years of continuous operation and what it takes to survive in a changing economy.

Career Growth and Authentic Leadership:

• How working on large infrastructure projects built the foundations for authentic, people-first leadership.
• The power of humility, likeability, and transparency in advancing your career.
• Why trusting your gut and having hard conversations are essential leadership skills.

Building and Retaining Talent:

• How to create loyalty and long-term retention through homegrown apprenticeship programs.
• Why investing in people early builds a stronger culture and business resilience.
• Insights into tackling the trade shortage and inspiring the next generation of skilled workers.

Data, Decisions, and Sustainable Growth:

• How to use data to make smart, strategic decisions that keep your business alive and thriving.
• The importance of measuring everything and knowing your numbers “to the cent.”
• Why not all growth is good growth. Understanding sustainable scaling in construction and manufacturing.

Resilience, Balance, and Happiness

• Ryza’s personal journey from a high-paying corporate career to rebuilding a family business for purpose and lifestyle.
• Why choosing happiness, family, and nature over constant hustle leads to real success.
• The value of staying human in an increasingly automated, AI-driven world.

Key Quotes from Ryza Garbacz 

• “Authenticity in how you deal with people is everything; it creates loyalty and trust.”
• “True legacy is building something that can survive without you.”
• “Data doesn’t lie. If you don’t know your numbers, you can’t run your business.”
• “Don’t chase growth for the sake of it. Growth has to be meaningful.”
• “I chose happiness, and that was the best business decision I ever made.”

About Our Guest:

Ryza Garbacz is the Managing Director of NEACH, a second-generation Australian manufacturing company based on the Sunshine Coast. With a background in civil engineering and a decade working on major infrastructure projects across the country, Ryza brings a unique blend of hands-on experience, commercial acumen, and deep commitment to regional manufacturing. Under his leadership, NEACH has become a trusted partner in sovereign supply and sustainable growth across Australia’s construction sector.

About Your Host:

Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.

How You Can Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
• Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership.
• Connect with Ryza Garbacz on LinkedIn to learn more about his work and insights on the future of Australian manufacturing.

Stay Connected:

• Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.
• Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.

Let’s Connect:

• Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.

Thank you for listening! It’s time to stop waiting and start building.