From Growth to Momentum: Nicola Norton Completes The Icehouse Owner Manager Programme
At Aquanort Pools, continuous improvement and leadership development are core to how we do business. In September 2024, our Marketing Manager Nicola Norton began The Icehouse Owner Manager Programme—a six-month transformational journey designed to empower business owners to refine their strategy, strengthen leadership, and take their businesses to the next level.
Nicola’s involvement with The Icehouse was inspired in part by her husband and General Manager, Tom Norton, who completed the same programme back in March 2020. Seeing the lasting impact it had on his leadership and the business, Tom encouraged Nicola to take the leap herself, confident it would give her the tools and confidence to shape Aquanort’s next chapter.
Over five immersive blocks between September 2024 and February 2025, Nicola joined a cohort of motivated owner-managers from around New Zealand. The programme explored all aspects of running a successful business—from financial clarity and systems thinking to strategy, people, and culture.
“The Icehouse helped me step back and really evaluate where we’re heading,” says Nicola. “It gave me space to lead with purpose, supported by a group of business owners all facing similar challenges and opportunities.”
In February 2025, Nicola and her cohort celebrated their graduation as part of the 67th Icehouse Owner Manager Programme. As the Icehouse team shared:
“A week ago, we celebrated the graduation of the 67th Icehouse Owner Manager Programme cohort 🎓 These Owner Managers have invested a lot of time and energy into themselves and their businesses, but also into supporting each other throughout this journey. We can't wait to see the connection continue, and the growth plans take effect!”
But the learning didn’t stop there. In May 2025, Nicola joined her cohort once again for the 90-Day Implementation Day—a follow-up session to reflect on progress, overcome roadblocks, and keep the momentum going.
“We love an implementation day!” The Icehouse shared. “Roughly 90 days after their final Owner Manager Programme block, each cohort comes together for one last session. It’s a chance to share what’s changed, continue the learning journey, dig into the real progress made and challenges faced, support each other, and celebrate the wins together.”
Nicola isn’t the only Aquanort leader benefiting from The Icehouse’s expertise. In 2024, Cory Vincent, Operations Manager, completed The Icehouse Leadership Programme—a powerful course designed for senior team members ready to step up and lead more effectively.
Together, the trio of Tom, Nicola, and Cory are bringing new energy, structure, and clarity to Aquanort Pools. Their shared learnings are helping us streamline operations, strengthen our culture, and deliver an even better experience for our clients.
We’re incredibly proud of Nicola’s commitment to growth—and thankful to The Icehouse for helping unlock the potential in both our people and our business.
