12/11/2026
🏆 FROM A CLEANER'S SON TO CEO OF THE YEAR!
18 years ago, I started Cleaning Melbourne because I wanted to change an industry.
Last night, I was incredibly humbled and honoured to be named CEO of the Year - Professional Services at The CEO Magazine's 2026 Executive of the Year Awards.
Eight finalist recognitions in seven years. Runner-Up in 2025. And now, CEO of the Year in 2026! ❤️
Growing up, I watched my mother work tirelessly in the cleaning industry, often without the respect she deserved.
That inspired me to build a business that valued people, paid them fairly and proved that doing the right thing and being successful could go hand in hand.
Today, that dream has grown into an organisation employing over 500 people and servicing more than 1,500 facilities across multiple states.
But this award isn't just mine.
❤️ To my mum and dad: Your sacrifices and values shaped everything I am today. Mum, this journey started because of you.
❤️ To Michelle, Harrison William and rest of my family: Thank you for your unconditional love, patience and support. You are my world.
🙏 To my mentors - Litsa Pilios, My Trieu, Eddy Awad, Michael Byrne, Lil Cassale, Argy Mariolis and Andrew Demetriou: Thank you for believing in me and helping shape my journey.
👏 To my entire leadership team and our 500+ incredible staff: Your loyalty, dedication and hard work make everything possible.
I accepted the trophy, but you helped earn it.
🤝 To our clients and business partners: Thank you for your trust and continued support.
And to CEO Magazine, thank you for this incredible honour.
Success isn't measured by how much money you make or how many awards you win. It's measured by how many lives you positively impact.
From watching my mother struggle to standing on stage as CEO of the Year.
This one's for you, Mum. ❤️
To everyone who has supported us - THANK YOU!
The best is still ahead of us! 🚀
Cleaning Melbourne David Gagovski