Focus on Chris Mattner

From being expelled from high school to leading a trailblazing South Australian electrical and lighting company, CME Group CEO Chris Mattner shares his journey and insights with ECD.

What attracted you to working in the electrical industry?

I didn’t choose this industry, it chose me. At nine years old, I was diagnosed with ADD (attention deficit disorder), which made school an uphill battle. I went through four different schools, struggling to fit into a system that wasn’t built for the way I learned. Eventually, I was expelled at 16, and my father gave me an ultimatum: find a job or you’re working for me in the family business. I spent most of my childhood holidays working as free labour for my dad, so I said no thank you, I will find myself a job.

Two weeks later, he knocked on my door and said “you are starting your apprenticeship today”. I had no idea that decision was to be ‘the best decision I never made’ and would set me on a path to leadership, innovation and global impact. What drew me in wasn’t just the technical side; it was the challenge of pushing boundaries, solving problems and creating solutions that redefine industries. Today, I’m not just in the electrical industry, I’m leading a movement that’s changing the way stadiums and large-scale infrastructure projects use lighting to enhance experiences, efficiency and sustainability.

Can you tell us a bit about CME?

CME is more than a company; it’s a culture, a vision and a relentless pursuit of excellence. We’re known for delivering world-class electrical and lighting solutions, particularly in sports and stadia lighting. With nearly four decades of history, we’ve illuminated over 400 sports fields, delivered more than 40 MW of renewable energy, and led groundbreaking projects like the Adelaide Oval LED Light Tower Upgrade, which received multiple awards for its innovation, complexity and impact on global stadium lighting standards [including the National Lighting Design & Construct award at the NECA National Excellence Awards 2024 and the Award of Excellence LiDA at the IESANZ Lighting Design Awards 2024].

But what truly sets us apart is our DNA. ‘Powered by Excellence’ isn’t just a tagline; it’s how we think, operate and execute. We push beyond industry norms, deliver innovative solutions and challenge what’s possible. We’re not just another electrical contractor; we’re industry pioneers, transforming spaces and redefining fan experiences on a global scale.

At CME, we’re also committed to shaping the future of our industry, and that starts with building a workforce that reflects innovation and diversity. One of our most exciting initiatives is the Female Apprentice Program, designed to break down barriers, create real opportunities, and empower more women to step into the electrical and construction industry. Today, women make up less than 2% of the construction workforce, a statistic we refuse to accept. We want to inspire, nurture and develop the next generation of female electricians, technicians and project leaders, proving that talent and ambition know no gender. Our industry needs bold thinkers and passionate change makers, and we’re making it our mission to lead that charge.

What does a typical workday look like for you, or is every day different?

Predictability is the enemy of progress, and in my world, no two days are the same. Some days, I’m leading high-level strategy meetings, shaping the future of the business. Other days, I’m onsite 70 metres up a stadium light tower, ensuring projects are delivered with the highest standards. I could be presenting at global conferences, collaborating with stadium executives or some of the world sports’ most significant boards, or mentoring the next generation of leaders.

But at the core of every day is my commitment to growth, both personally and professionally. Whether it’s pushing my mindset, refining operations or innovating the next big thing, every day is an opportunity to level up to redefine what’s possible.

What have some of your career highlights been so far?

There are defining moments that shape careers, and I’ve had a few:

• Adelaide Oval LED Light Tower Upgrade — Delivering a global-first lighting upgrade under immense pressure, tight deadlines and extreme weather conditions, yet finishing on time and setting a new industry standard, winning many awards.
• Winning the 40 Under 40 Inspiring Future Leader Award — A recognition of leadership, resilience and impact. More than an award, it reaffirmed my mission to inspire others to push beyond their limits.
• Expanding CME’s reach into global markets — Taking our expertise beyond Australia, proving that South Australian innovation belongs on the world stage.
• Surviving the tough times — From navigating a complete business restructure in 2012 to scaling from $1.2m in revenue to $20m+, the lessons in resilience and reinvention have been just as important as the wins on our journey to be a $100m global stadium lighting company.
   

But my greatest highlight? Building a company and a team that thrives on innovation, pushes boundaries, and sets new benchmarks for excellence.

What advice would you give to those looking to get into the industry?

My biggest piece of advice is — never let anyone tell you that you cannot do something, you can do anything! What I thought for most of my life was a deficit (ADD) ended up turning into my biggest superpower. In my professional career it gives me hyperfocus and a relentless determination to succeed.

The world belongs to those who show up relentlessly. If you want to succeed in this industry, bring hunger, resilience and an obsession with learning, growing and developing. Don’t wait for opportunities, create them! Surround yourself with great mentors, embrace the tough lessons, and never settle for mediocrity.

This industry isn’t just about wires and circuits; it’s about solving problems, leading innovation and leaving an impact. If you’re willing to do what others won’t, you’ll build a career that others can only dream of.

Are there any trends, innovations and changes you’re excited about?

We’re on the brink of a lighting revolution, and I’m here for it:

• The convergence of lighting, AI and immersive technology — The future of stadium experiences isn’t just about illumination; it’s about creating atmospheres, controlling emotions, and enhancing engagement. Smart lighting, sound and visuals is unlocking new ways to shape fan experiences in real time.
• Sustainability leading the charge — LED technology, energy-efficient solutions and carbon footprint reductions are changing how we approach large-scale infrastructure projects. The race isn’t just about brighter lights; it’s about smarter, greener and more efficient solutions, which also drive strong ROIs for our clients.
• Data-driven stadium optimisation — Lighting will soon integrate seamlessly with real-time data to adjust brightness, energy consumption and fan engagement dynamically.
   

We’re not just witnessing change; we’re driving it. And at CME, we’re not just keeping up; we’re setting the pace.

All images courtesy of CME Group.