Guided by values, driven by people
From watching his parents build Monaro Screens from the ground up to guiding the company through some of its toughest years, Ben Byatt’s journey has been shaped by resilience and values. As General Manager and Director, he remains committed to the people behind the business: staff, clients and the wider Canberra community.
Looking back, what’s been a defining moment in your career or business journey so far?
One of the defining moments in my journey was navigating the business through the challenges of the past five years. Between COVID, supply chain issues, and the uncertainty of the building industry, there were real risks to both our team and the future of the business. Choosing to back ourselves — to keep every staff member employed, double down on customer service, and continue supporting our local community, shaped who we are today.
That period proved that resilience, teamwork, and holding firm to our values make the difference. It reminded me that Monaro Screens isn’t just about products, it’s about people — our staff, our clients, and our community.
What drives your passion for your business?
For me, it’s when both our team and clients see and experience the genuine care I have towards the business, our reputation and genuinely wanting to make a difference, whether it’s in their personal lives, work lives or better products in their homes.
Who or what has been your biggest influence in your journey?
Without question, my biggest influence has been my parents. As a child, I watched them start this company from nothing but a dream and watched that dream grow slowly into a reality.
Whether they liked to show it or not, I saw the lowest lows, and highest highs and witnessed first-hand the extreme hard work, dedication and sacrifices they had to make.
How do you define success, both personally and professionally?
For me, success isn’t just measured in numbers on a page. Professionally, it’s about building a business that people can trust — where customers know they’re getting quality, staff feel valued and supported, and the community sees us as a company that gives back.
Personally, success is about balance. It’s being able to spend time with the people I care about and know that the hard work I put in has created something lasting. It’s the combination of growth, impact, and the ability to enjoy life along the way from my hard work.
What is your favourite thing about working in the Canberra region?
Without a doubt it’s our community, they have always been so supportive of small family businesses and are the only reason we have made it through some incredibly tough times in business. They love to support, recommend and assist small businesses and it’s something that genuinely continues to surprise and humble me.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Take the risks you’re unsure about and back yourself. Things won’t always go to plan, and that’s completely okay; these are the moments that you learn so much more about yourself and life.
