Client Spotlights

Case Study: Mercer

THE CLIENT

Mercer, a global leader in insurance and financial services, brought together 100 of its top leaders from across Australia for a two-day event in Melbourne.

With a focus on connection, high performance, and well-being, the event was all about bringing teams closer, having fun, and reinforcing the idea that when leaders are at their best, so is the company.

THE EVENT

What: Two-day leadership event
Activity: The Quest to Be the Best – a high-energy, interactive challenge
Where: Melbourne – Docklands, Yarra River, and Port Melbourne
Who: 100 Mercer leaders from Sydney, Melbourne, and beyond

The goal was simple: create an unforgettable shared experience that broke down barriers, encouraged teamwork, and pushed participants out of their comfort zones—all while racing through Melbourne on a mission-packed adventure.

THE EXPERIENCE

Eleven teams hit the streets, solving puzzles, tackling creative challenges, and answering company trivia—all while navigating Melbourne via Uber. Along the way, they encountered a cast of eccentric characters, including a fast-talking real estate agent, a sassy LA music producer, and a gym junkie who could bench-press a small car.

From shooting hoops with Jim the Gym Junkie to selling “shrubbery homes” to an art collector, Mercer’s leaders embraced every challenge with creativity, enthusiasm, and just the right amount of questionable decision-making. TikTok dance routines went viral, Nutbush variations we never knew existed were born, and Mercer’s fashion game hit new heights (Lady Gaga would be proud).

At the end of this whirlwind adventure:
🏆 The Mercer Mai Tais took the crown, proving their skills in strategy, teamwork, and all-around flair.
😂 The Top-Notch Troublemakers lived up to their name, keeping everyone entertained.
🎭 The Wallies set a new standard for corporate fashion.

IMPACT ON THE BUSINESS

Beyond the laughter and outrageous costumes, this experience played a key role in strengthening Mercer’s leadership team. By stepping out of their usual roles and tackling challenges together, leaders built deeper connections, improved communication, and reinforced a culture of collaboration and innovation.

More than just a fun afternoon, the Quest to Be the Best aligned perfectly with Mercer’s focus on building a high-performance culture. It highlighted the importance of well-being, teamwork, and adaptability—all crucial for leaders guiding their teams through an ever-changing business landscape.

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“The overall experience was seamless and fun - we couldn't have asked for a better team to execute this activity for our event. The Banana Life team is a bunch of creative, energetic and dedicated individuals who will surely make your event most enjoyable and memorable!”