In Conversation With… Oliver Brown
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Co-founder and CEO of hospitality powerhouse Big Easy Group, Oliver "OJ" Brown, chats to Monty about his favourite whiskey, pineapple on pizza and how he wants to be remembered.
What are you currently reading, watching and listening to?
Reading Secrets of Gym Launch, watching Monster, and listening to the new Mobb Deep album, The Infamous: Mobb Deep.
How do you start your day?
I’m an early riser – so it usually starts with a black coffee, a banana, and a workout before the rest of the squad (aka the family) wakes up.
What’s the most interesting or enjoyable part of your job?
The variety – it keeps you on your toes. One minute I’m emailing about a pigeon problem, the next I’m meeting architects for a new fit-out or tasting dishes for a menu. No two days are the same. But at the end of the day, hospitality is about people – staff and guests are always the best part.
Best piece of advice you’ve received?
“A person’s success is judged by the number of uncomfortable conversations they have.”
What’s your greatest fear?
Letting down the people who rely on me.
How do you want to be remembered?
As someone who made things a little bit better. Hospitality is about helping people leave happier than when they walked through your doors – if I can do that, even in small ways, that’s a legacy I’m proud of.
Describe living in Adelaide in three words.
Easy-going. Underrated. Home.
When was the last time you cried?
Honestly, probably at some emotional Instagram reel about kids. Ever since becoming a dad, I cry at anything with soft music and a toddler in it.
Drink of choice?
I am a whisky man. At the moment, I'm sipping on a Nikka Miyagikyo 15.
Biggest lesson you’ve learnt over the journey?
Feedback is a gift. You need to be able to give it and receive it. That’s how you improve yourself and your teams.
What is your favourite time of day?
Early morning when it’s quiet and the world hasn’t started yet.
Favourite travel destination and why?
Japan – the food, the culture, the attention to detail. Everything is done with intention.
What happens when we die?
Hopefully nothing too dramatic. I’m pretty happy with the idea of returning to the earth and helping something else grow.
What has been your biggest disappointment?
Times I didn’t back myself when I should have.
What’s the last song you listened to?
'Hooked on a Feeling'. My daughter believes the opening is performed by the coconuts from Moana. Hard to argue with that level of confidence.
Favourite place to eat and drink in Adelaide?
If I’m going out, I'm a fan of Pastel and will frequent Nowhere bar for a knockoff.
What is your worst trait?
Impatient when things move slower than they should. I can be pretty persistent.
What is your most controversial opinion?
Pineapple on pizza is fine; in fact, it’s delicious!
What keeps you awake at night?
Ideas. And sometimes spreadsheets.
What is your favourite smell?
Fresh-baked bread and pastries in the morning.
What are your goals for 2026?
Continue to grow the Big Easy Group into a house of iconic SA brands, launch our consulting brand properly, and keep building a life with my family that I’m proud of.
