Royce Fairbrother

Founder & Director

The inspiration behind the Fairbrother brand, Royce left Devonport High School at the age of 15 to pursue a trade qualification. After seven years in the joinery trade and a further three as a carpenter, Royce in partnership with his wife Thea, founded the Fairbrother business in 1972.

As the business experienced exponential growth from this small beginning, so too did Royce’s role and skills. Starting as a jack of all trades on the tools, Royce eventually moved into the role of Managing Director for 30 years, before becoming the company Chairman in 2003.

One of Royce’s most outstanding attributes is his ability to attract, nurture
and inspire key leaders in the business. Under Royce’s guidance, Fairbrother has been at the forefront of the Tasmanian construction industry, embracing and introducing a Certified Quality Assurance Program, a company Building Leaders Program, and employee health and wellbeing initiatives.

As Chairman he was strongly focused on driving Fairbrother’s strategic direction and 20-year vision, with a special interest in growing the Developments arm of the business.

In July 2021, Royce stepped down as Fairbrother’s Chairman, however, he maintains his activity in the business as a Non-Executive Director of the Board.

Royce is a former recipient of the Institute of Company Directors Tasmanian Division Gold Medal Award and was the inaugural recipient of the national Minister’s Award for Commitment to Australian Apprenticeships.

Royce is also the Chairman and Co-founder of Action Against Homelessness, a philanthropic organisation dedicated to supporting the vulnerable people of Devonport and its surrounds.