Biography of Katie Page: Founder and CEO of Harvey Norman -Entrepreneur
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Katie Page: A Journey from Mareeba to Global Business Leadership
Humble Beginnings in Queensland
Born in 1956 in Mareeba, Queensland, Katie Page grew up in a
small, tight-knit family with three sisters. Her father’s job as a bank manager
meant frequent relocations, and the family moved across towns like St. George,
Rockhampton, and Brisbane. Katie’s childhood was marked by adaptability and
resilience. She completed her schooling at Brisbane State High School in 1973
and initially dreamed of becoming a surveyor. However, discouraged by the
gender pay gap in the field at the time, she sought other opportunities.
Early Days in Sydney
Katie’s determination brought her to Sydney, where she
pursued independence and opportunity. At 19, she participated in an
intelligence test fundraiser judged by entrepreneur Gerry Harvey. Six years
later, Harvey offered her a role as his assistant in the newly opened Harvey
Norman store. Katie embraced the challenge, gaining experience in advertising,
sales, marketing, and publicity. This marked the beginning of a long
professional and personal partnership with Harvey, culminating in their
marriage in 1988.
Rising Through the Ranks at Harvey Norman
Harvey Norman was founded in 1982 by Gerry Harvey and Ian
Norman. Katie joined the company in 1983, quickly making her mark through hard
work and innovative thinking. By 1999, she became the CEO of Harvey Norman,
overseeing its operations while Harvey served as executive chairman. Under her
leadership, the company transformed into a global powerhouse with operations in
eight countries.
A Global Expansion Vision
Katie led Harvey Norman’s international expansion with
strategic foresight. The company entered New Zealand in 1996, Singapore in
2000, Malaysia, and Slovenia in 2003, and later Ireland. Embracing digital
trends early, she launched the brand's online sales platform in 2001. By 2015,
the company operated 277 stores, generated A$4.9 billion in revenue, and posted
a net profit of A$165 million, cementing its global presence.
Recognition as a Trailblazer
Katie’s contributions didn’t go unnoticed. She was ranked
fourth on The Australian Business Review's 2015 list of the "50 most
powerful women in business." Her efforts were further acknowledged in 2021
when she was inducted into the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame,
highlighting her enduring impact on Australian commerce.
Championing Sports and Women in Athletics
Katie’s influence extended beyond business into the realm of
sports. She co-owned the Magic Millions Thoroughbred racehorse auction house
and introduced initiatives like the Racing Women's Incentive Bonus, encouraging
female horse ownership. Her passion for sports led her to join the National
Rugby League (NRL) board as its first female member in 2004. A year later, she
launched the Women in League initiative to celebrate and support women in
rugby.
Biography of Katie Page: Founder and CEO of Harvey Norman -Entrepreneur #online sales platform#statup#age#net worth#investor#Harvey Norman story
Harvey Norman’s Sports Sponsorships
Katie’s commitment to sports inclusivity reflected in Harvey
Norman’s sponsorships. The company backed the NRL’s State of Origin series and
continues to support the Women in League round and Indigenous All Stars match.
She also championed diverse teams like the Auburn Giants, a mostly female,
Muslim Australian Football League team, and sponsored Australia’s first
all-female racecar driving team in the 2015 Bathurst 1000.
Innovative Real Estate Projects
Katie’s entrepreneurial spirit extended into real estate.
She co-owned the Byron at Byron Resort and Spa and spearheaded luxury projects
like M3565 at Main Beach, Queensland. Her vision for high-end, boutique living
spaces was exemplified in the project’s design, with apartments averaging
A$17,000 per square meter.
A Partnership in Life and Business
Katie and Gerry Harvey shared a unique partnership,
balancing their personal lives and the vast responsibilities of running Harvey
Norman. Together, they raised two children while building a business empire.
Their dynamic teamwork extended to ventures like horse breeding, with a
portfolio of four breeding studs and 1,000 racehorses.
Advocate for Gender Equality
Katie has been a steadfast advocate for women in leadership
and sports. Her efforts to promote gender equality are evident in her business
policies, sponsorship initiatives, and leadership roles. She has consistently
worked to break barriers and create opportunities for women across industries.
From Assistant to CEO
Katie’s rise from a young assistant at Harvey Norman to its
CEO is a testament to her resilience, strategic vision, and dedication. Her
journey reflects the rewards of perseverance and innovation in a competitive
industry, setting an example for aspiring business leaders.
Net Worth and Recognition
Despite her immense contributions, Katie’s financial
achievements were often underrecognized in comparison to her husband’s.
However, since 2021, the Financial Review has assessed their combined net
worth, acknowledging the integral role she played in their shared success.
A Lasting Legacy
Katie Page’s career spans over three decades of leadership,
transformation, and advocacy. From building Harvey Norman into a global giant
to championing inclusivity in sports, her legacy is one of determination and
impact. Through her journey, she continues to inspire countless individuals to
pursue their dreams with grit and grace.
A timeline summarizing Katie Page’s journey:
1956: Born in Mareeba, Queensland.
1973: Graduated from Brisbane State High School.
1975: Moved to Sydney to pursue independence and
opportunities.
1983: Joined Harvey Norman as Gerry Harvey's assistant.
1988: Married Gerry Harvey.
1999: Became CEO of Harvey Norman.
2001: Launched Harvey Norman’s online sales platform.
2004: Joined the NRL board as the first female member.
2005: Founded the Women in League initiative.
2015: Ranked among Australia’s most powerful women in
business.
2021: Inducted into the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of
Fame.
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