When it comes to helping independent repair business owners grow, few are better equipped than Natasha Lang, Operations and Performance Manager at NOVUS Glass Australia.
With firsthand experience building a successful auto glass business from the ground up, Tash brings rare insight, practical hands-on experience, and a deep understanding of what it takes to thrive in today’s fast-evolving repair industry—all of which she now channels into supporting franchisees across NOVUS Glass Australia.
From finance to windscreens
Tash’s entry into the auto glass industry began in the unexpected setting of Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, after a 20-year career in finance and management across multiple sectors. The catalyst? Her husband—an industry veteran—decided to launch his own glass repair business.
“It wasn’t until he wanted to open his own auto glass repair business that it all happened,” Tash recalls. “I helped him get started, expecting it to be a sole trader operation. But within six months, it grew beyond what he could manage alone.”
With demand rapidly increasing, Tash made the decision to shut down her own business and jump in full-time—bringing her experience in growing small businesses to the family venture.
“We went from one windscreen in the garage to needing a recalibration machine and more space,” she says. “We invested, expanded, and within a short time, we had our own 400square-meter facility. It became one of the largest auto glass businesses in Hawkes Bay.”
It was a journey that continued to grow Tash’s passion for helping other small businesses realise untapped potential.
“There’ve been many proud moments in my career, but growing our family business—building something meaningful together—stands out. It gave me a deep understanding of the industry and what small business owners face within it.”
Crossing the Tasman, continuing the mission
Driven by that same passion for business growth and helping people, Tash eventually took the next step—moving to Australia in which the opportunity arose to join NOVUS Glass Australia under Fix Network as Operations and Performance Manager.
“I’m not your typical operations manager. I’ve lived the challenges of being a small business owner in this industry. That’s why this role resonates with me.”
Her lived experience makes her a natural fit for Fix Network, whose philosophy centres on empowering franchisees with tools, training, and strategic support.
“Too often, business owners get caught working in their businesses, not on them,” she explains. “We have so much talent in this industry—many dream of owning their own operation but need the right support. That’s where we come in.”
Tash is particularly excited about Fix Network’s Business Excellence Program, which helps franchisees identify hidden challenges and implement best practices drawn from national and global benchmarks.
Strength in the network
One of the greatest strengths of NOVUS Glass, Tash believes, is the collaborative spirit within the network.
“The level of knowledge and talent across the franchise group is outstanding,” she says. “There’s a family feel—franchisees helping each other, reaching out to our corporate team, sharing insights. That culture of support is why we continue to thrive.”
She credits this ethos to a leadership team deeply committed to franchisee success—especially NOVUS Glass Australia General Manager Jack Parkinson.
“Jack’s knowledge and passion for helping business owners is extraordinary. He’s driven to take someone from being a fitter or employee to owning their slice of the industry. That drive is shared across the whole team. I’ve worked in various sectors—health, finance, lending—but I’ve never been part of a team as dedicated to helping others.”
Navigating change in
a fast-moving industry
Having seen the auto glass world from both the workshop floor and the management office, Tash is acutely aware of the industry’s rapid evolution—especially in windscreen technology, sensors, and recalibration.
“The technology is changing fast, and we need to stay ahead,” she says. “Our relationships with dealerships, suppliers, and associated groups keep us informed. That’s a real benefit of being part of NOVUS glass—we’ve always got our finger on the pulse.”
She recalls discussions at recent industry events about future tech being implemented within the windscreens.
“Who knows how far off that is, but we’re already asking the right questions. That’s the strength of the network—we’re proactive, not reactive.”
While innovation can be daunting for small businesses, Tash says that’s why Fix Network exists—to offer the knowledge and confidence to adapt.
“The pace of change excites me. The expertise of our team now is second to none, and we’re constantly evolving to meet the moment.”
A passion that
never feels like work
Despite the shifting technology, one thing hasn’t changed: Tash’s dedication to supporting businesses on their journey.
“I’ve done it all— from chip repairs, gunning, lifting in windscreens through to managing daily operations, IT systems and finances. That makes me relatable to the people I now support.”
Securing her role at NOVUS Glass feels less like a job, and more of an opportunity to make a meaningful impact within the network.
“It doesn’t feel like work—it feels like I get to help others reach the place we once dreamed of. That’s an incredible feeling not just for me, but for the franchisees which is more important.”