Linh Bui: The Visionary CFO & COO Steering One SMG to New Heights

Linh Bui, CFO & COO, One SMG

A marvel of human ingenuity, the automotive industry has consistently been at the frontline of a transformative journey since its evolution. Disrupting the trends, this industry has full-fledgedly grown into a powerhouse, embodying a nation’s prestige and innovative prowess, while driving its economic prosperity. In such ever-changing market dynamics, the need for a seasoned financial expertise becomes imperative.  A CFO is not only a person specialised in applying robust financial strategies, but also a visionary who, with financial acumen and foresight helps companies to navigate through technological disruptions, manage regulatory risks, and drive operational efficiency. 

In the heart of Adelaide, South Australia, One SMG (formerly Smith Motor Group) represents a prime example of such an automotive company adeptly navigating the tides of transformation while maintaining a steadfast commitment to innovation and excellence. Under the astute stewardship of its CFO and COO, Mr. Linh Bui, One SMG emerges as a formidable force for the future, where tradition often thrives on innovation. A paragon of strategic brilliance and resilience, Mr. Linh Bui’s journey is a testament to how visionary leadership can transform and elevate a century-old institution to a new standard of growth and excellence. His story is not just one of personal success but also a blueprint for aspiring leaders in any industry.

Revitalising a Century-Old Legacy: Embracing Modernity

Founded over a hundred years ago in Port Adelaide, One SMG has grown into a diversified enterprise with 18 businesses operating across Australia and New Zealand. The company’s expansive portfolio includes automotive and caravan dealerships, fleet management, leasing, and collision repair centers, employing 300 dedicated staff. Under Linh’s leadership, this respected organisation has not only preserved its rich heritage but has also embraced the challenges of the modern marketplace.

For Linh, joining One SMG was more than just a career move; it was a calling. The diversified nature of the business allowed him to expand his skill set and indulge his passion for finance. The multi-faceted operational environment at One SMG provided the perfect landscape for Linh to develop and implement innovative management frameworks.

Sailing Against the Wind: Culminating Leadership  

Linh’s tenure at One SMG began at a critical juncture. The automotive industry was grappling with a pre-pandemic slowdown, followed by the unprecedented disruptions caused by COVID-19. These challenges, however, became opportunities for Linh and his team to come forth with groundbreaking technologies, innovate and lead.

The pandemic forced a re-evaluation of traditional business strategies. Linh and his team had to think on their feet, making decisions with incomplete information and adapting to rapidly changing circumstances. This period of uncertainty highlighted the importance of flexibility and resilience. By focusing on enhancing its online presence, engaging customers through digital platforms, and managing supply chain disruptions, Linh successfully navigated One SMG through these turbulent times.

Breaking New Ground as COO & CFO: Pioneering Innovation 

Transitioning into the dual role of COO and CFO, Linh Bui brought extensive board, strategic, and change management experience across the Automotive, Robotics & Automation, Manufacturing, and Professional Services industries. With expertise in developing consolidation, and growth strategies, Linh focused on stakeholder and change management to ensure impeccable execution and maximise outcomes. His vision was to infuse One SMG with innovation and agility, reshaping the company to meet evolving market demands. By fostering a culture of adaptability and embracing digital transformation, Linh propelled One SMG towards sustained growth and success, positioning it as a dynamic leader in the automotive industry.

“Taking a well-established 99-year-old business and applying frameworks to meet new market norms and customer expectations was a formidable task,” Linh admits. “But with a clear vision and strategic execution, we’ve managed to breathe new life into our operations.”

One SMG’s distinctive approach lies in its diversified portfolio and strong community ties. The group’s extensive network ranging from vehicle sales to fleet management, allows it to weather industry challenges, and remain agile while offering a broad range of quality services. This diversification, coupled with a commitment to community sponsorship and youth employment initiatives, helps One SMG stay ahead of the curve. 

Building a Winning Team: Fostering Success through Collaboration

As Andrew Carnegie noted, “Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organisational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results,” at the core of Linh’s success lies his ability to build and lead a strong team. He believes that passion, a positive outlook, and a flexible approach are the key qualities that drive success. Linh values attitude over skills, emphasising that the right mindset is crucial for growth and innovation.

This philosophy gave birth to a collaborative and dynamic work environment at One SMG. Linh’s ability to identify and cultivate complementary skill sets within his team has been instrumental in driving the company’s success.

Balancing Work and Life: The Key to Healthy Entrepreneurship

For Linh, the energy of the mind is the essence of life, and he believes in revitalising the mind for healthy living. Amidst a grueling work schedule and extensive responsibilities, Linh champions a healthy work-life balance. He advocates for intense, focused work during the week, balanced with relaxation and recharging over the weekends. “It’s always a balance,” he notes. “It’s important to look after yourself and include exercise in your routine. I work intensely with intention during the week and use the weekend to recharge.” By prioritising self-care and integrating exercise into his routine, Linh ensures that he remains energised and effective in his leadership role.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Linh sees immense opportunities in the automotive industry. With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), evolving retail models, and changing consumer behaviors, One SMG is well-positioned to thrive. Linh is committed to ensuring that the company remains agile and responsive to these changes.

By engaging with a diverse range of brands, adopting best practices, and maintaining a strong online presence, One SMG is poised to meet the future head-on. Linh’s forward-thinking approach ensures that the company will continue to innovate and grow, staying ahead of market trends and customer expectations.

Guide to Future Entrepreneurs

Linh’s journey offers invaluable lessons for the upcoming generation of entrepreneurs. His advice is rooted in patience, perseverance, and proactive leadership.  Gleaning from his experiences in diverse portfolios, Linh emphasises the importance of clear communication and action-driven results. 

Future leaders should be prepared to lead change through decisive actions and tangible outcomes. By clearly articulating their vision and ensuring alignment within their teams, they can drive meaningful progress and innovation.

A Legacy of Excellence

As One SMG celebrates over a century of excellence, Linh Bui’s leadership is a beacon of inspiration. His strategic vision, resilience, and commitment to innovation have not only revitalised a historic brand but also set it on a path of sustained growth and success.

Linh Bui’s story is a compelling narrative of how traditional industries can evolve and thrive under smart leadership. His journey with One SMG serves as a guiding light to the CFOs and business leaders worldwide, demonstrating that with resilience, strategic foresight, and a commitment to excellence, even the most established businesses can achieve remarkable success in the modern era.