The Mentor with Mark Bouris REVISIT: R.M.Williams CEO Paul Grosmann on leading Australia’s Iconic Brand
Jan 5, 2026
Paul Grosmann, CEO of R.M.Williams, shares his journey from Nike and McKinsey to leading Australia’s iconic boot brand. He delves into the captivating founding story of Reginald Murray Williams and discusses the brand's deep-rooted heritage, including its use of durable kangaroo leather. Paul reveals the emotional connection Australians have with R.M.Williams, touching on manufacturing innovations and recent ownership changes aimed at restoring its Australian stewardship. He emphasizes resilience in leadership and the importance of staying true to the brand’s roots.
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Founder’s Workshop And Repair Tradition
- Reginald Murray Williams started making boots in 1932 during the Depression from a workshop behind his parents' house in Prospect, Adelaide.
- He built one-piece leather boots that could be repaired by sending them back to 5 Percy Street, which created deep customer loyalty.
Learning From Dollar Mick
- Reginald learned leathercraft working with a First Nations man called Dollar Mick in the Flinders Ranges and built boots from one piece of leather.
- He was kicked out of the mission for paying Aboriginal workers a fair wage and moved to Prospect to start his factory.
Kangaroo Leather Suits Australian Conditions
- Kangaroo leather is extremely strong and lightweight, making it ideal for Australian conditions and footwear.
- R.M.Williams used local materials because they matched the harsh environment they were designed for.