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In today’s unpredictable business world, true success often stems from setbacks. Few stories reflect this better than that of Paul Morrison—a former chef who transitioned into entrepreneurship and built one of the fastest-growing staffing firms in the Asia-Pacific region.
As the Director of Connect Staffing Group, Paul leads a company now recognized among the top 200 fastest-growing businesses in the Financial Times APAC rankings. His journey from the kitchen to corporate leadership is one of innovation, resilience, and people-first thinking.
From Chef to Entrepreneur
Paul Morrison’s professional journey began in the culinary arts, with over two decades of experience working in top-tier kitchens across Ireland and Australia.
From 2006 to 2011, Paul served as Head Chef at Sodexo Prestige in Ireland, managing high-profile functions, mentoring young chefs, and collaborating with culinary greats like Kevin Dundon and Derry Clark. He also served as personal chef to the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) and cooked for political leaders, including events hosted by Brendan Ryan TD.
After relocating to Australia, Paul took leadership roles with Sodexo and Compass Group, honing not just his kitchen skills—but also his abilities in people management, operations, and logistics.
Building Elite Hospitality Personnel & Connect Staffing
In 2015, Paul took the leap into entrepreneurship with the founding of Elite Hospitality Personnel, focusing initially on supplying chefs and kitchen staff. The business quickly expanded to cover broader roles—cleaners, wait staff, bar staff, and catering assistants.
In 2016, Elite partnered with Connect Health Services, a healthcare staffing company founded in 2004. This partnership flourished, and by 2018, Paul acquired the business fully. In 2022, he unified both brands under Connect Staffing Group.
Today, the company:
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Employs over 650 staff
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Serves 300+ clients across Australia, Singapore, Thailand, China, and New Zealand
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Operates in healthcare, aged care, hospitality, and facilities management
Recognition & Achievements
Under Paul’s leadership, Connect Staffing Group has earned industry-wide respect and numerous accolades:
🏆 Key Achievements:
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AFR Fast 100 (2021 & 2022)
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Financial Times APAC 2023 – Ranked #199
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40 Under 40 Business Leader of the Year
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Business Leader of the Year 2023
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Great Place to Work® Certification (2022)
Paul also contributes to industry development as a Council Member of the RCSA (Recruitment, Consulting & Staffing Association) in Western Australia.
Resilience Through Setbacks: The COVID-19 Pivot
The COVID-19 pandemic posed major challenges. A failed software project in 2020 cost the company over $200,000. But Paul didn't panic—he pivoted. Within just eight weeks, Connect Staffing transitioned to a new platform in partnership with EntireHR, a move that increased shift fulfillment by 60% in just one month.
This pivotal decision helped double the company’s size over the next three years.
“We owe it all to EntireHR, Blake Thompson, Sachin Nischal, and their team. Their support has been crucial to our expansion.” – Paul Morrison
A People-First Culture
Paul attributes the company’s success to its unwavering focus on employee wellbeing and culture.
🌟 Staff Benefits at Connect Staffing Include:
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Paid mental health days every month
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Birthdays off (paid)
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Flexible scheduling for work-life balance
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Leadership and training programs
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Recognition incentives
Over 68% of employees surveyed expressed a desire to work exclusively with Connect Staffing—testament to its strong internal culture.
Vision for the Future
Paul’s mission is to make Connect Staffing Group the #1 supplier of nurses to public and private hospitals across Western Australia and beyond.
The company also holds:
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ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety)
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ISO 14001 (Environmental Management)
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ISO 9001 (Quality Management)
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StaffSure Verification – A first in Australia for combined healthcare and hospitality sectors
These certifications reflect a deep commitment to compliance, ethics, and quality.
Lessons for Young Entrepreneurs
Paul is passionate about mentorship and continuous learning. His advice for new entrepreneurs:
🔑 Key Lessons:
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Surround yourself with growth-minded people
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Find a mentor, even if they’re outside your industry
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Get comfortable being uncomfortable—growth happens outside your comfort zone
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Embrace change—learn, unlearn, and relearn constantly
“Something you learn today may work today, but it doesn’t mean it will work next week. Success isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about staying open to change and ready to adapt.”
– Paul Morrison
Final Thoughts: Redefining the Staffing Industry
Paul Morrison’s rise from a chef’s kitchen to the boardroom is a testament to adaptability, resilience, and human-centered leadership.
Through bold moves, visionary partnerships, and a focus on culture, Paul has positioned Connect Staffing Group as a market leader across Asia-Pacific. His journey serves as inspiration not only for entrepreneurs—but for anyone chasing transformation in their life and career.