Jim Penman
Dr Jim Penman pursued his PhD in history at La Trobe University while running a part-time gardening business. In 1982, he transitioned to a full-time mowing business with just a $24 investment. By 1989, he franchised the business, laying the foundation for Jim’s Group, which has since grown into the largest franchise chain in Australia and the world’s leading lawn mowing business.
Committed to education and research, Jim continues to fund studies on the epigenetics of social behaviour, expanding on his doctoral work. He believes this research could contribute to advancements in mental health treatment and addiction recovery.
Jim’s Group has expanded to over 5,400 franchisees across Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, with more than 40 divisions, including Jim’s Cleaning, launched in 1994. He emphasizes franchisee support and continuous improvement in customer service, remaining actively involved in business operations.
His books Biohistory, Epigenetics and Character, and Every Customer a Fan are available on Amazon and www.jims.net. His authorized biography, Jim’s Book by Catherine Moolenschot, was published by Wiley in March 2019.
