John Roberts (Australian businessman)
John Roberts | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Australia |
| Died | June 8, 2006 (aged 72) Perth, Australia |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, Businessman |
| Years active | 1951–2005 |
| Known for | Founder and chairman of Multiplex |
John Charles Roberts (23 January 1934 – 8 June 2006) was a prominent Australian entrepreneur, recognized as the founding chairman and executive director of the construction firm Multiplex.
Early life and career
Roberts began his career in the construction industry immediately after completing school, working in Broken Hill, New South Wales from 1951 until 1958. From 1959 to 1961, he played a key role in the development of the Menindee irrigation scheme and pumping station, which facilitated water delivery from the Darling River to Broken Hill.
Multiplex
In 1962, Roberts established Multiplex, where he held the position of Chief Executive until 2003 and continued as Chairman until 2005. His guidance saw the company grow from its base in Perth to operate on both national and international stages.
Multiplex won a major contract valued at AUD 1.2 billion for the reconstruction of Wembley Stadium. However, substantial budget overruns and project delays occurred, culminating in Roberts stepping down as Executive Chairman in 2005. By 2006, his net wealth was estimated at AUD 740 million, a decrease from AUD 1.1 billion the year before. After his passing, the Roberts family divested their controlling interest in Multiplex to Brookfield Asset Management in 2007.
Awards
Roberts was honored as an Officer of the Order of Australia in 1988 for his achievements within the construction sector and contributions to horse racing. In 2001, he was awarded the Centenary Medal recognizing his service to building and construction. Posthumously, he was inducted into the Property Council of Australia Hall of Fame in August 2017, eleven years subsequent to initially accepting the honor in 2006.
Personal life
In 1964, Roberts married Angela Egerton-Warburton; the couple divorced in 1999. He is survived by his children: Andrew Roberts, Tim Roberts, and Denby Macgregor.
A devoted enthusiast of horse racing, Roberts chaired the Western Australian Turf Club from 1984 through 1987 and was an active committee member between 1971 and 1987.
Roberts passed away at age 72 in Perth following a long struggle with diabetes.