If you think McDonald’s success in Australia was an overnight thing, think again.
When Peter Ritchie, AO, opened the first store in 1971, he was working 100-hour weeks and losing money.
But, as he shared at MASTERMIND. With Sherrie in 2024, leadership isn’t about smooth sailing—it’s about building the right team, embracing change, and pressing on even when things get tough.
Here’s what I, and the 2024 Masterminders, learned from Peter about what it really takes to build an empire (hint: it’s not just flipping burgers!).
Leadership: A skill you build, not a gift you’re given
Peter’s early days weren’t just about perfecting the Big Mac—it was about leading people.
And according to him, that’s not something you’re just born with. Leadership takes practice, learning, and (sometimes painful) growth. It’s your job as a leader to grow your people.
As Peter put it: “Commit to people that you are going to make them the smartest in the industry”. That means going beyond basic training. Give your team the knowledge, tools, and confidence to grow—not just as employees, but as individuals. Yes, some will leave, but the ones who stay will be the cream of the crop. And that’s who you want in your corner.
Build a team that reflects your vision
If you don’t shape your business culture, your team will do it for you—and you might not like the result. Peter is a firm believer in setting the standard, rewarding high performers, and, when necessary, cutting loose the dead weight.
His rule? “Get rid of people posing as contributing team members.”
If someone’s not pulling their weight, they’re dragging the whole team down.
There’s no doubt that letting people go is awkward. But keeping them could be worse. Strong culture isn’t just about having great people—it’s about making sure only great people stick around.
Communication is the lifeblood of leadership
This one might seem simple, but it’s something many leaders get wrong. Peter emphasised that he has no time for office politics and rumour mills.
His take? Keep communication open and honest. “Ensure you have outstanding communication.”
This isn’t just about team meetings (though, fun fact: Peter swore by unstructured, off-agenda meetings every now and then to spark real conversations). It’s about making sure your team isn’t guessing what’s going on. Clarity = confidence. And confidence = results.
Make leadership fun (yes, really!)
Being a great leader isn’t about being a serious, all-business, no-laughs boss. Peter made sure that fun was part of the workplace DNA. In fact, he dedicated 20% of his time to making sure his team wasn’t bored.
His philosophy? “Work at making your environment fun.”
If your team is engaged, energised, and actually enjoying their work, they’ll be more productive.
So, go ahead—get creative, shake things up, and inject some joy into the everyday.
Trust your instincts and embrace change
Peter’s take on decision-making was simple: trust your gut. Most of the time, your instincts are right. But that doesn’t mean resisting change.
He says the secret is to, “Always changing but seen to be staying the same.”
McDonald’s is a perfect example—the menu today looks nothing like it did when the first store opened. Drive-thrus, McCafés, even breakfast—these were all radical changes at the time.
But they kept the core of the brand intact.
Change is a journey and it can be good.
Lead by example and manage by the numbers
While Peter is an advocate for trusting your instincts, he also loves numbers. As an accountant by trade, he said data doesn’t lie. Whether it’s tracking sales, measuring team performance, or setting business goals, numbers should guide your decisions. But don’t lose sight of the people behind those numbers—because ultimately, they’re the ones making the magic happen.
“Manage by the numbers,” Peter said.
Leadership lessons for real estate (or any business!)
Peter’s leadership lessons are gold for any industry, including real estate. Here’s how you can apply them:
Invest in your team: Make them the smartest in the industry, and they’ll take your business to new heights.
Foster a positive culture: Cut out the dead weight and let the best people rise to the top.
Communicate clearly: No rumours, no confusion—just open, honest conversations.
Make work fun: A happy team is a productive team.
Adapt and innovate: Change keeps you relevant—ensure your team and customers come along for the ride.
Lead with integrity: Be as local as possible, build trust, and get involved in your community. Reputation matters.
Peter Ritchie built more than a business—he built an empire.
And the key? Leadership.
Not the flashy, power-trip kind of leadership, but the kind that lifts people up, embraces change, and creates a culture where great things happen.
So, what’s your next move?
If you’re ready to build your empire, then MASTERMIND. With Sherrie in 2025 is for you!
I would love for you to join us to hear from incredible speakers including Anywhere Brands Executive Advisor Sherry Chris, Wildlife Warrior Terri Irwin, Richard Branson’s former EA Samantha Cox, and many more!
You can find out more and enquire to be a part of this exclusive, 30-attendee community of Masterminders here: https://www.sherriestoror.com/mastermind
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