Bruce McIntyre

Founder, MACPAC

Bruce McIntyre started making backpacks in his parents' garage in 1973, when he was 19 years old. From these humble beginnings, Macpac has grown to manufacture a range of outdoor equipment. The Macpac brand is now the market leader in New Zealand and Australia and is keenly sought after, despite high prices, in Europe and the UK.

As well as making innovative outdoor equipment, Macpac is renowned for its innovative workplace practices. Bruce has given a number of presentations on this subject over recent years, including Workplace New Zealand. Work re-engineering at Macpac has progressed from being project based to becoming a standard part of the company's operations.

Bruce has led Macpac through many changes over the years as it has grown from a one-man operation to a total of 250 staff members today. He has been involved in production, marketing, finance and personnel over the years. Today Bruce's primary role is to lead the development of the company strategy.