Biography of Imelda Roche: Founder of Nutrimetics -Entrepreneur
Biography of Imelda Roche:
Imelda Roche’s extraordinary journey began in 1956 when she
met her future husband, Bill Roche, in a supermarket. The couple’s
entrepreneurial spirit emerged early as they began selling lamps door-to-door.
This humble start set the stage for a business career that would span decades
and leave a lasting legacy.
The Birth of Nutrimetics in Australia
In 1968, Imelda and Bill Roche took a bold step by acquiring
the Australian franchise of Nutrimetics. Starting with just AUD 6,000 worth of
stock, they built the brand into a household name in the beauty and wellness
industry. The couple’s unwavering dedication and vision helped them establish a
foundation for success.
Expanding to Global Heights
By 1991, Imelda and Bill Roche had acquired the worldwide
interests of Nutrimetics International, elevating the brand to a global stage.
Under their leadership, the company grew to achieve an annual turnover of AUD
250 million. This remarkable success story culminated in the sale of
Nutrimetics to the Sara Lee Corporation in 1997.
Diversifying into Property Development
With their entrepreneurial instincts still strong, Imelda
and Bill shifted their focus to property development and investment. Starting
in the late 1950s with the purchase of a Sydney warehouse, their portfolio
expanded to include residential subdivisions, rural properties, and office
complexes. Their ventures were later consolidated under the Roche Group,
established in 2000.
Transforming Hunter Valley
The Roche Group became synonymous with iconic landmarks in
the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales. Imelda and Bill developed
destinations like the award-winning Hunter Valley Gardens, the Roche Estate
concert venue, and Harrigan’s Irish Pub. These projects transformed the area
into a hub of tourism and entertainment.
Advocacy and Controversy
Despite their achievements, the Roche Group faced
controversy over a planned housing development in West Wallsend. Activists
opposed the project, citing the cultural significance of the Butterfly Cave, an
Aboriginal women’s site. Although recognized by government legislation, the
site’s future remains uncertain.
Biography of Imelda Roche: Founder of Nutrimetics -Entrepreneur#startup#age#net worth#Nutrimetics story#investor#austrilia#Imelda Roche story
Breaking Barriers in Leadership
Imelda Roche’s influence extended beyond business. From 1990
to 1992, she served as the president of Chief Executive Women. In 1993, she
became the first woman and the first Australian to chair the World Federation
of Direct Selling Associations, representing 1,500 member companies globally.
Representing Australia on the Global Stage
Imelda’s expertise was recognized at the highest levels. In
1994, Prime Minister Paul Keating appointed her as Australia’s representative
to the Pacific Business Forum of APEC. She continued in this role under Prime
Minister John Howard’s Business Advisory Council to APEC, strengthening
Australia’s global business ties.
A Leader in Education and Family Business
Imelda contributed significantly to academia and family
business development. She served as acting chancellor of Bond University in
1999 and became its chancellor later that year, holding the position until
2003. She also chaired the New South Wales Chapter of Family Business Australia
and supported various educational initiatives.
Dedication to Community Service
Imelda’s service extended to numerous boards and committees,
including St. Vincent’s Hospital, the Sisters of Charity Foundation, and the
Garvan Institute of Medical Research. Her contributions reflected her
commitment to improving health, education, and community welfare.
A Trailblazer in Recognition
Imelda’s achievements earned her numerous accolades. In
1995, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for her service to
business, women’s affairs, and the community. Other honors included the
Centenary Medal in 2001 and honorary doctorates from Macquarie University and
Bond University.
A Legacy of Wealth and Influence
By 2019, Imelda and Bill Roche’s net worth was estimated at
AUD 1.42 billion. Following Bill’s passing in 2022, Imelda’s net worth grew to
AUD 1.57 billion in 2023, securing her place as one of Australia’s most
successful entrepreneurs and philanthropists.
Inspiring Future Generations
Imelda Roche’s story is one of resilience, vision, and
innovation. From humble beginnings selling lamps to building a global business
empire, she has inspired generations with her leadership and dedication to
making a difference in the world.
Timeline for story
1956: Imelda meets Bill Roche in a supermarket.
Late 1950s: Starts property investments with the purchase of
a Sydney warehouse.
1968: Acquires the Australian franchise of Nutrimetics.
1990–1992: Serves as president of Chief Executive Women.
1991: Acquires worldwide interests of Nutrimetics
International.
1993: Becomes the first woman and Australian to chair the
World Federation of Direct Selling Associations.
1994: Appointed to APEC’s Pacific Business Forum by Prime
Minister Paul Keating.
1997: Sells Nutrimetics to Sara Lee Corporation.
1999: Appointed acting chancellor of Bond University;
becomes chancellor later that year.
2000: Establishes the Roche Group to consolidate property
ventures.
2001: Receives the Centenary Medal for service to Australian
society.
2003: Ends tenure as Bond University chancellor.
2019: Net worth reaches AUD 1.42 billion.
2022: Bill Roche passes away.
2023: Imelda’s net worth grows to AUD 1.57 billion.
