In the ever-evolving world of pest control, few names stand out like Marshall Blacklock, Founder and CEO of CDI Pest Management. With over 25 years of industry experience, Marshall has built a business that not only delivers results but also leads with purpose, precision, and a deep commitment to sustainability.
From Franchise to Founder
Marshall began his pest control career in 1998, gaining valuable experience within a major franchise. But by 2005, he saw an opportunity to do things differently. He launched CDI Pest Management with a clear mission: to provide highly responsive, personalised pest solutions backed by robust systems and community-minded values.
His guiding principle? “Extraordinary is doing the ordinary well.” This philosophy has shaped CDI’s approach to service delivery, innovation, and leadership.
Innovation with Impact
Under Marshall’s leadership, CDI has become a benchmark for operational excellence. From real-time pest activity tracking to streamlined customer reporting, every system is designed to be replicable, scalable, and impactful. These innovations aren’t just about efficiency—they’re about solving real customer pain points and elevating the standard of service across the industry.
Marshall’s commitment to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and low-toxicity treatments reflects his belief in practical, sustainable solutions. His role in the Rapid Response Large Area Fire Ant Treatment initiative highlights his dedication to protecting Queensland’s ecosystems and agricultural assets.
National Recognition and Industry Leadership
In 2024, Marshall was named Australian Pest Manager of the Year (businesses with over 10 employees) and received the Overall National Pest Manager of the Year title. These accolades reflect not just his business success, but his influence on the industry as a whole.
Marshall is a regular speaker at pest control conferences and small business leadership events. He mentors pest businesses across Queensland, New South Wales, and South Australia, sharing insights on systems, strategy, and sustainable growth.
Community and Advocacy
Beyond the boardroom, Marshall is a passionate advocate for community engagement. He supports local organisations like Tony’s Community Kitchen, Hope Horizons, and Envision Disability Services, offering in-kind pest services and creating paid micro-jobs for people with disabilities.
He also plays a key role in industry development through the Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association (AEPMA), leading the national Careers in Pest program and contributing to advisory sessions with Build Skills Australia. His nomination to the Urban Pest Management Review Technical Committee further underscores his influence in shaping the future of pest control.
A Vision for the Future
Marshall’s leadership is grounded in continuous learning and collaboration. As a member of Vistage, and an active participant in the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce, BNI, and SING, he remains committed to expanding his own knowledge while generously sharing it with others.
With third-party accredited ISO 9001 and HACCP certifications, CDI Pest Management stands as a model of quality and accountability. Under Marshall’s guidance, the company continues to invest in sustainable technologies and practices that balance lifestyle, environmental responsibility, and long-term industry impact.
CDI Pest Management doesn’t just treat pests—it leads change. And at the heart of that change is Marshall Blacklock.
