If you’re stuck behind a desk dreaming of something real, Paul Sandles has been there—and he’s made the leap.
After nearly 20 years in corporate IT, including a long stint at Hewlett Packard, Paul traded his keyboard for an excavator and never looked back.
Today, he leads the Jim’s Diggers division as its national franchisor, helping franchisees build meaningful, hands-on businesses across Australia.
Leaving the Office: Paul Sandles’ Turning Point
Paul was once the guy in meetings, managing projects, chasing deadlines.
“There was no gratification. If I did a really good job, people would just turn up on Monday morning and not even notice.”
The decision to leave IT wasn’t random.
A personal crisis—including a divorce—made him rethink what really mattered: more time with his kids, more control over his life, and work that meant something.
He looked at industries that couldn’t be outsourced—and landed on construction.
“You can’t import a whole hole, can you?”
Discovering Jim’s Diggers
Paul had no construction background.
No machinery experience.
But when he came across Jim’s Diggers, it just made sense.
The demand was real, the work was local, and the support system was strong.
“I had no idea Jim’s even did digging at the time. But as soon as I met Jim, I was inspired.”
Paul bought into the system and became a franchisee.
His results—and mindset—stood out quickly.
By 2017, Jim Penman personally appointed Paul to lead Jim’s Diggers Australia as the divisional franchisor.
Building a Smarter Franchise System for Jim’s Diggers
With his IT and data background, Paul brought analytics and structure into an industry known more for hard hats than dashboards.
“We implemented KPI tracking across the board—average job value, conversion rate, and leads improved by 40%.”
His strategy?
Give franchisees better tools and smarter systems so they can focus on growing a profitable, independent business.
“We spend most of our money on Google Ads. We also help franchisees understand what works in their local area.”
Jim’s Diggers Equipment That Works for You
Instead of one-size-fits-all machinery, Paul helps build diverse fleets within each franchise territory.
Franchisees can work with:
- Mini and large excavators
- Skid steers and tip trucks
- Horizontal borers
- Post-hole diggers
- Trenching equipment
“It’s amazing how many calls we get for really big holes.”
Services range from soil and concrete removal to underground service locating and fence prep.
Jim’s Diggers: Real Support for First-Time Operators
Paul hasn’t forgotten what it’s like to be brand new.
That’s why Jim’s Diggers offers a paperwork guarantee—franchisees are provided with up to 250 leads while they establish their businesses.
“The first month was the hardest—going from a steady paycheck to your own thing. That paperwork guarantee helps you breathe.”
Franchisees also receive:
- Full onboarding and training
- Local marketing materials and guidance
- Ongoing mentoring directly from Paul and his team
- Call centre lead generation and CRM support
Building Culture, Community, and Real Outcomes at Jim’s Diggers
Paul brings a culture of accountability, connection, and shared success.
His region now supports over 32 active franchisees, and he personally mentors many of them.
“We don’t just give you a machine and walk away. We’re there—from your first job to your 500th.”
It’s not just business.
For Paul, there’s personal satisfaction too.
“When I drive past an old job with my kids, I can say, ‘I built that.’ That means something.”
What Paul Sandles Looks For in Franchisees
Not everyone is cut out for it, but if you’re ready to work hard and follow a system, you’ll fit in.
He looks for people who are:
- Reliable and hands-on
- Open to learning and tracking results
- Committed to long-term growth
“Find something you can see yourself doing day in and day out—because that’s what success looks like.”
Big Goals for the Future: Paul Sandles’ Vision for Jim’s Diggers
Paul isn’t stopping anytime soon.
His goal is to grow Jim’s Diggers to 100 franchisees within three years, including expansion into regional Australia and New Zealand.
He’s building more than just a fleet—he’s building opportunity.
“Compared to what I used to do, this is better for my health, better for my family, and more satisfying.”
Want to Talk to Paul Sandles?
📞 Call 131 546
🌐 Visit jims.net → Search Jim’s Diggers Franchise
📩 Book a trial day or request a free info pack
If you want to build something real—with your hands, your machine, and a trusted brand—Paul’s team is ready to help you get started.