Southern Design Group is one of Australia's leading suppliers of architectural hardware products, with a unique portfolio to suit a variety of styles. This portfolio is supported by an excellent sales and distribution network, an ambitious and innovative product development focus, and a consumer-focused marketing team. We foster an innovative, strategy focused and progressive work environment.
We are a rapidly growing family-owned global business and for over 40 years, we have had a long history of retaining dedicated and experienced staff who reflect our strong values of respectful, responsible, adaptable and passionate.
Employee Spotlight
Daniel Preston
Product Development & Improvement Manager
Product Development & Improvement Manager
“SDG has given me the opportunity to grow, contribute, and see firsthand the impact our work has - both locally and globally.”
I joined Southern Design Group in 1993, and what has kept me here is the opportunity to grow alongside the business. SDG has always been a place where my ideas are heard, I am supported, and I have been given the chance to study and develop professionally.
One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had was traveling to India and China with our founder, Graham Duff, during my time as Procurement Manager. Meeting the people manufacturing our products made me realize the vast impact our business has on their communities. This experience reinforced the importance of social responsibility, especially through initiatives like Asha, which SDG actively supports to help improve lives.
The variety of challenges and opportunities, combined with a supportive culture and the knowledge that our work impacts lives globally, keeps me motivated and excited every day. It’s never boring at SDG - there’s always something happening!
One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had was traveling to India and China with our founder, Graham Duff, during my time as Procurement Manager. Meeting the people manufacturing our products made me realize the vast impact our business has on their communities. This experience reinforced the importance of social responsibility, especially through initiatives like Asha, which SDG actively supports to help improve lives.
The variety of challenges and opportunities, combined with a supportive culture and the knowledge that our work impacts lives globally, keeps me motivated and excited every day. It’s never boring at SDG - there’s always something happening!
George Windley
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
“At SDG, growth isn’t just possible - it’s encouraged, supported, and celebrated.”
I joined Southern Design Group as a Picker and Packer and over the years, I’ve had the privilege to grow and evolve within the company, recently stepping into the role of Data Analyst. The journey has been marked by 10 promotions in six years.
What drew me to SDG initially was its convenient location, but what has kept me here is so much more - the incredible culture, the constant opportunities for learning, and the unwavering support from the leadership team.
SDG excels in creating a positive work environment. The company is flexible with working hours, offers manageable workloads, and actively supports mental health initiatives.
Starting in an entry-level role, I never imagined the career growth I’d experience. The opportunities I’ve been given to grow and progress within the business are something I feel genuinely privileged to have, and I’m grateful for the support that has made it all possible.
What drew me to SDG initially was its convenient location, but what has kept me here is so much more - the incredible culture, the constant opportunities for learning, and the unwavering support from the leadership team.
SDG excels in creating a positive work environment. The company is flexible with working hours, offers manageable workloads, and actively supports mental health initiatives.
Starting in an entry-level role, I never imagined the career growth I’d experience. The opportunities I’ve been given to grow and progress within the business are something I feel genuinely privileged to have, and I’m grateful for the support that has made it all possible.
Katherine Panou
Customer Service Consultant
Customer Service Consultant
“At SDG, making a difference goes beyond the workplace - we support each other and the communities around us.”
What initially drew me to SDG was its strong work-life balance and positive work culture. Since joining, I’ve been continuously inspired by the support of my team and the welcoming, inclusive environment that makes each day enjoyable.
The company culture is unlike any other I’ve experienced. It’s incredibly friendly, with a great sense of camaraderie. Social events like Friday knock-off drinks and activities organised by the social club are fantastic for connecting with colleagues and having fun together.
SDG’s commitment to social responsibility is also inspiring. The company actively supports local initiatives and charitable events, fostering a sense of pride and connection among employees. It’s incredible to work for a company that values giving back to the community as much as it values its people.
I'm grateful to be part of such a supportive team and look forward to growing and contributing to SDG’s success.
The company culture is unlike any other I’ve experienced. It’s incredibly friendly, with a great sense of camaraderie. Social events like Friday knock-off drinks and activities organised by the social club are fantastic for connecting with colleagues and having fun together.
SDG’s commitment to social responsibility is also inspiring. The company actively supports local initiatives and charitable events, fostering a sense of pride and connection among employees. It’s incredible to work for a company that values giving back to the community as much as it values its people.
I'm grateful to be part of such a supportive team and look forward to growing and contributing to SDG’s success.
Chelsea Videon
Sales Operations Manager
Sales Operations Manager
“At SDG, I feel valued, supported, and given opportunities to grow—both professionally and personally.”
Working at Southern Design Group has been a rewarding journey. I started as a Picker/Packer in the warehouse in 2017 and have progressed through various roles, ultimately becoming Sales Operations Manager.
I was initially drawn to SDG because of its focus on rewarding and recognising staff, as well as the opportunities for career development. What has kept me here is the incredible workplace culture, where all staff are respected, supported, and encouraged to achieve their goals.
SDG’s dedication to work-life balance truly sets it apart. I’m supported to work from home, manage my workload effectively, and disconnect during personal time. Workshops and tools provided by the company help us manage expectations and maintain balance.
My biggest motivation is knowing that my work supports my colleagues and helps create a better experience for everyone at SDG.
I was initially drawn to SDG because of its focus on rewarding and recognising staff, as well as the opportunities for career development. What has kept me here is the incredible workplace culture, where all staff are respected, supported, and encouraged to achieve their goals.
SDG’s dedication to work-life balance truly sets it apart. I’m supported to work from home, manage my workload effectively, and disconnect during personal time. Workshops and tools provided by the company help us manage expectations and maintain balance.
My biggest motivation is knowing that my work supports my colleagues and helps create a better experience for everyone at SDG.
Chris Lehman
Dispatch
Dispatch
"SDG is more than just a workplace - it’s a supportive community where I can grow, learn, and enjoy a great work-life balance.”
What initially drew me to SDG was the impression during my interview that it would be a great place to work. What has kept me here is the incredible management team and supportive company culture. I can honestly say this is the best place I’ve ever worked.
SDG also excels at work-life balance. Decreased working hours, fair pay, and flexibility for mental health make me feel supported both personally and professionally. Perks like monthly food trucks, rewards for hard work, and Friday socials where we finish early make every week enjoyable.
I’ve been trained to handle almost everything in dispatch. It’s a role I’m proud of, and I’m excited to continue learning, do my best and work my way up to management someday. Southern Design Group isn’t just a company - it’s a place where people are respected and supported, and I know I’ll be here for a long time.
SDG also excels at work-life balance. Decreased working hours, fair pay, and flexibility for mental health make me feel supported both personally and professionally. Perks like monthly food trucks, rewards for hard work, and Friday socials where we finish early make every week enjoyable.
I’ve been trained to handle almost everything in dispatch. It’s a role I’m proud of, and I’m excited to continue learning, do my best and work my way up to management someday. Southern Design Group isn’t just a company - it’s a place where people are respected and supported, and I know I’ll be here for a long time.
Maddy Whittaker
Senior Creative Manager
Senior Creative Manager
"The company culture at SDG is the best I’ve experienced - it genuinely prioritises the wellbeing of its employees."
Over the years, I’ve been supported to grow my role, lead a larger team, and work on projects that have real impact. I’m fortunate to work with an incredible team - many of whom have become close friends.
One of the most memorable opportunities was travelling to New York to help launch Bankston to the U.S. market, where I coordinated events and captured content to support the brand’s international expansion.
SDG’s commitment to work-life balance truly sets it apart. There’s a strong culture of trust and flexibility, with encouragement to switch off outside of work hours and wellbeing initiatives like Mindful Mondays. Leadership also supports taking time to fully disconnect during holidays.
I’m proud to be part of a company actively working towards B Corp certification and embracing sustainability - from switching to electric vehicles to reducing plastic packaging. It’s exciting to grow, create, and contribute to a team that’s passionate about making a positive impact.
One of the most memorable opportunities was travelling to New York to help launch Bankston to the U.S. market, where I coordinated events and captured content to support the brand’s international expansion.
SDG’s commitment to work-life balance truly sets it apart. There’s a strong culture of trust and flexibility, with encouragement to switch off outside of work hours and wellbeing initiatives like Mindful Mondays. Leadership also supports taking time to fully disconnect during holidays.
I’m proud to be part of a company actively working towards B Corp certification and embracing sustainability - from switching to electric vehicles to reducing plastic packaging. It’s exciting to grow, create, and contribute to a team that’s passionate about making a positive impact.
Rhea Alok
People and Culture Coordinator
People and Culture Coordinator
“From day one, I felt at ease at SDG - it’s the easiest transition I’ve ever had into a new role.”
I was initially drawn to the size of the business and the role itself, but what ultimately solidified my decision was SDG’s strong commitment to social responsibility - especially its efforts to give back to the communities.
What has kept me here is twofold: the people and the opportunities that come with a fast-growing organisation like this one. The culture is incredibly supportive, making it the easiest transition I’ve ever had into a new role. The leadership team fosters autonomy and innovation, giving me the freedom to introduce new initiatives - such as our training catalogue and well-being programs like Mindful Mondays and Digital Guardrail training.
SDG’s social impact is something I’m particularly proud of. The company actively supports former refugees with employment opportunities and partners with grassroots organisations like Asha to uplift communities that directly contribute to our supply chain. SDG has provided an incredible platform to make a real impact - both inside and outside the organisation.
What has kept me here is twofold: the people and the opportunities that come with a fast-growing organisation like this one. The culture is incredibly supportive, making it the easiest transition I’ve ever had into a new role. The leadership team fosters autonomy and innovation, giving me the freedom to introduce new initiatives - such as our training catalogue and well-being programs like Mindful Mondays and Digital Guardrail training.
SDG’s social impact is something I’m particularly proud of. The company actively supports former refugees with employment opportunities and partners with grassroots organisations like Asha to uplift communities that directly contribute to our supply chain. SDG has provided an incredible platform to make a real impact - both inside and outside the organisation.
Shalin Shah
NetSuite Support Officer
NetSuite Support Officer
“If you’re looking for a workplace that feels like a community, SDG is the place to be.”
The culture at SDG is like a breath of fresh air, it's inclusive, supportive, and vibrant. It's a place where respect, adaptability, responsibility, and passion are more than just words; they’re a way of life.
The company understands that we all wear multiple hats in life. From offering flexibility to help me balance work and study, to creating opportunities for me to step into new roles, the support has been unwavering.
Initiatives like working with the See Differently and partnerships with organisations such as UNICEF Australia and Asha demonstrate the company’s dedication to making a positive impact. It’s clear that SDG goes beyond business goals to support communities and drive meaningful change.
Working here has been nothing short of transformative. From the challenges I faced as a new employee in a new country to the immense support I’ve received throughout my journey, SDG has been more than just a workplace, it’s been a platform for growth, connection, and achievement.
The company understands that we all wear multiple hats in life. From offering flexibility to help me balance work and study, to creating opportunities for me to step into new roles, the support has been unwavering.
Initiatives like working with the See Differently and partnerships with organisations such as UNICEF Australia and Asha demonstrate the company’s dedication to making a positive impact. It’s clear that SDG goes beyond business goals to support communities and drive meaningful change.
Working here has been nothing short of transformative. From the challenges I faced as a new employee in a new country to the immense support I’ve received throughout my journey, SDG has been more than just a workplace, it’s been a platform for growth, connection, and achievement.
Darren MacGregor
Procurement Administrator
Procurement Administrator
"At SDG, people are heard and supported—it’s a place where you feel truly valued."
I started at Southern Design Group in 2000, assembling switches in a small team of fewer than 10 people. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to grow with the company, progressing through roles to my current position in procurement.
What’s kept me here for over two decades is the friendly, rewarding culture and the sense of purpose that comes from contributing to a growing, values-driven business.
SDG creates space for genuine career development, and I’ve felt supported every step of the way. I also appreciate the flexible work arrangements, which allow me to support my kids’ school and sporting commitments while maintaining a healthy balance.
I’m also proud to work for a company that takes sustainability seriously - reducing its carbon footprint and helping international suppliers adopt more eco-friendly practices to strengthen the entire supply chain.
Being part of a company that values its people, supports the planet and continues to grow makes every day fulfilling.
What’s kept me here for over two decades is the friendly, rewarding culture and the sense of purpose that comes from contributing to a growing, values-driven business.
SDG creates space for genuine career development, and I’ve felt supported every step of the way. I also appreciate the flexible work arrangements, which allow me to support my kids’ school and sporting commitments while maintaining a healthy balance.
I’m also proud to work for a company that takes sustainability seriously - reducing its carbon footprint and helping international suppliers adopt more eco-friendly practices to strengthen the entire supply chain.
Being part of a company that values its people, supports the planet and continues to grow makes every day fulfilling.
Greg Watts
Head of Sales (NZ)
Head of Sales (NZ)
"At SDG, passion drives success, and growth is achieved through teamwork, innovation, and dedication."
What sets SDG apart is the passion and support from staff across all areas of the business. There’s a genuine commitment to our brands and a collaborative culture that makes working here both productive and fulfilling.
SDG has given me the freedom to utilise my diverse skill set and entrepreneurial experience while operating within the company’s framework. Seeing the New Zealand market grow threefold during my tenure has been a major career milestone - along with becoming a trusted advisor to several designers, particularly in the heritage home sector.
I’ve valued the opportunity to manage and shape the New Zealand operation while contributing to the company’s overall growth. The company fosters an environment where expertise is respected, teamwork is essential, and innovation is encouraged.
SDG continues to be a place where passion, strategy, and commitment drive success - and I look forward to the ongoing journey of growth and opportunity within the business.
SDG has given me the freedom to utilise my diverse skill set and entrepreneurial experience while operating within the company’s framework. Seeing the New Zealand market grow threefold during my tenure has been a major career milestone - along with becoming a trusted advisor to several designers, particularly in the heritage home sector.
I’ve valued the opportunity to manage and shape the New Zealand operation while contributing to the company’s overall growth. The company fosters an environment where expertise is respected, teamwork is essential, and innovation is encouraged.
SDG continues to be a place where passion, strategy, and commitment drive success - and I look forward to the ongoing journey of growth and opportunity within the business.
Employee Value Proposition
Balance
Prioritised work-life balance and flexibility
Consistent wellness initiatives
Strong WHS processes, including Mental Health First Aid officers
Culture
Family-business values retained
Inclusive
Regular fundraising for charities through different sources
Interpreter services for non-native English speakers
Career
Training opportunities - internal and external
Educational assistance
Job-interest/Study alignment
Individual Performance Development Plans
Perks
Competitive pay
Rostered day off option for hourly rate employees
Rewards and recognition program - up to $100 rewards + SDG donates to a charity of your choice
Values
High quality products
Strong and loyal customer base
Cutting edge resources
Winner of multiple awards and accolades
Environmentally and socially responsible
Rapidly expanding in international markets
Our Vision
To embed architectural hardware as a key design consideration.
Our Mission
To be an innovative, global leader in delivering high-quality products that cater to diverse market segments, while upholding the highest standards of social and environmental responsibility.
OUR VALUES
RESPECTFUL
I value diversity and inclusion, treat others with fairness and respect and expect the same in return.
RESPONSBILE
I consider the social and environmental impacts of business and strive to reduce those impacts through sustainable practices.
ADAPTABLE
I embrace change, continuously seek improvement and remain open to new ideas and opportunities for growth.
PASSIONATE
I am self-motivated and solutions-focused.
