We are delighted to welcome Marcus Henry as a new Board Member of the Fishermans Bend Business Forum!
Marcus serves as the General Manager at Melbourne Cement Facilities, bringing over 20 years of business management experience and a background as a qualified Chemical Engineer. He has joined the Fishermans Bend Business Forum to advocate for the Cement, Concrete, and Aggregates industries in the Lorimer and Fishermans Bend precincts, with a focus on shaping the area’s future while acknowledging the contributions of local industries.
As a Cultural Change Business Leader, Marcus emphasises continuous improvement and has a proven track record in reengineering underperforming systems and cultures through structured cross-functional team programs. With his training as both an Analytical Chemist and Chemical Engineer, he holds postgraduate qualifications in contract management, procurement, and business governance. His diverse experience spans government and private sectors, including the Water, Food, Pharmaceutical, and Industrial Manufacturing industries, covering bulk, commercial, and retail supply and distribution levels.
We interviewed Marcus about his time with the Fishermans Bend Business Forum and his insights on everything Fishermans Bend.
Marcus, what can you tell us about yourself and your work outside Fishermans Bend Business Forum?
For the last 12 months I have been the General Manager at Melbourne Cement Facilities. I’ve spent the previous 20 years in business management, after training as a Chemical Engineer. I really enjoy focusing on cultural change and continuous improvement, helping to turn around underperforming systems and facilities. I’ve worked across various industries like Water, Food, and Pharmaceuticals, working with both government and private sectors. Outside of work, I’m a dad to three adult kids and a stepdad to two little ones, so my weekends are busy with swimming, soccer, and basketball games. My partner, Yuki, and I love hitting the trails for bushwalking in the Dandenong’s or cycling along the beach in southeast Melbourne.
Why did you join the Fishermans Bend Business Forum?
I became a member of the Fisherman’s Bend Business Forum to represent the Cement, Concrete, and Aggregates industries in the Lorimer Street and Fisherman’s Bend Precincts. My goal is to help shape the area’s future while also honouring the past and present contributions of local businesses.
Will you have a focus during your time as a board member?
I’m still new to the Committee, but I previously served as a Board Member at Macedon Grammar School, where I focused on financial restructuring, sustainability, and growth strategies. As I settle into this new role, I’m eager to bring that experience to the table and contribute to our goals here at Fisherman’s Bend.
What’s the best part about working/living in Fishermans Bend?
I love the proximity to the city and Docklands, as well as the river views. Taking a walk along the wharf is great place to clear the mind and refocus.
I also really enjoy working with a great group of people at Melbourne Cement, who are a very knowledgeable, hardworking team. It makes my role easier.
What are the most pressing issues?
One of the biggest issues I see in Fisherman’s Bend is the transport flow in and around the precinct. With the recent developments from Melbourne University, there’s a significant impact on how pedestrians, cyclists, scooters, and bulk transport vehicles interact, especially in the Turner, Salmon, and Lorimer Street areas. It’s really important that we address these dynamics to ensure safety and efficiency for everyone using these spaces.
Where is the best coffee in Fishermans Bend?
My favourite spot has to be Hall Street Café. I love walking in and having them already know that I’m after a Spicy Falafel wrap—no need to even ask! And they always follow it up with, “Do you want a dessert with that?” It feels great to have that kind of connection with the staff; they really know me well!
We’re thrilled to welcome Marcus to the Fishermans Bend Business Forum team! His extensive experience and dedication are sure to be invaluable assets as we work together to support our community. We can’t wait to see what we can achieve with your involvement and look forward to an exciting journey ahead!
