Originally from Malta, Eddie Borg fell in love with Townsville’s laid-back lifestyle. He saw the need for a high-quality Managed IT Service provider in the region and embraced the chance to combine his passion for technology with the benefits of a coastal lifestyle, by founding NQIT.
Tell us about yourself and NQIT.
Originally from Malta, I’ve lived in Australia since I was 29. I’ve had quite the diverse career path – I’ve transitioned from being a waiter in my teens, to being an electrician in my twenties, a plumber in my thirties, and finally an IT business owner in my forties.
I’ve always been business minded and had a lifelong interest in technology, so owning an IT business was a natural fit. I get to ride the tech wave and enjoy the challenges and rewards that come with owning a business.
I lived in Melbourne for 23 years but had visited Townsville on several occasions. I loved the laidback lifestyle and the genuine, no-BS people of NQ. I also saw the need for a high-quality complete Managed IT Service provider in the region, so it was an easy decision to move to Townsville in 2017. No traffic, great people, great business opportunities and getting to walk the Strand every day – what more could you want?!
What has been the most challenging aspect of owning NQIT?
When I started the business over 25 years ago, I had very little business management experience and didn’t realise how fast a business can grow – and the impact this can have on your family and personal life. It has taken me over 20 years – and starting again from almost zero – to learn from my past work-life balance mistakes.
The biggest lessons learnt have been that quality of services and customers trumps volume and profit margins, and having a supportive business and life partner is key to one’s success. No matter how good you are and how hard you work, the key is to surround yourself with people that hold the same principles and values as yourself. Good things will follow!
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I love to cook! Outside of work, you’ll likely find me in the kitchen listening to some jazz with Chris Botti, George Michael or Sade, while making pasta (my signature dish – just ask my friends!)
What is the best piece of career or business advice you have ever received?
Blind trust is the biggest mistake one can make in running a business.
Going forward, what is next on the cards for NQIT?
I enjoy what I do daily, which is helping new customers transition from almost ground zero to a complete Managed IT Services environment.
As a business, we have a strong focus on direct customer relationships and high-quality customer service. I take pride in seeing both our staff and customers alike succeed in their goals via technology systems and business processes we provide as a unified team.
My sole focus is to continue to grow the business in the North Queensland region to become the leading name for Managed IT Services (including cyber security).
Main image – Eddie Borg
Images Credits – All images supplied.
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