AusCann chief executive Layton Mills has vowed to put love before loot by joining the cast for Season 10 of reality TV show Married At First Sight (MAFS).
Mills quit AusCann in September 2022 after 18 months at the helm, pledging to continue to support the company during a six-month notice period before “pursuing other business interests”.
Mills took over as AusCann CEO from Nick Woolf in January 2021 following AusCann’s acquisition of CannPal Animal Therapeutics, a business Mills founded.
Now his next move has been revealed, with Channel 9 describing the 35-year-old New South Welshman as “an entrepreneur [who] has started a number of successful businesses, including his latest project in medicinal cannabis for pets”.
However, his success in business appears to have come at the expense of his love life, according to the program’s makers.
“While describing himself as motivated and driven in his businesses, Layton is less committed to making love a priority,” says the MAFS website.
“He struggles to compromise, so more often than not he puts work first. This sees him spending more time in the office, on his computer and in meetings than with a significant other, which takes its toll on relationships.”
Luckily, Mills seems prepared to make changes to his work-life balance for the greater good.
“At 35, Layton is the only single person in his close-knit group of friends, and he’s finally realised that something must change or this will become his reality for life. He’s also close to his parents and wants to be there to care for them as they grow older.
“Over the past few years, Layton has taken a lot of time considering and re-evaluating what is important in life. He is looking for a woman who shares his work ethic, his sense of determination and drive – ultimately someone to grow his empire with.”
However, he may have his work cut out on the show, with new wife Melinda Wills described as an “alpha female… a confident and sassy businesswoman who doesn’t suffer fools”.
The 32-year-old Queensland fashion and beauty CEO is “the centre of attention in any room and people can find her looks and intelligence intimidating”.
But beneath her tough exterior “Melinda is very emotional and admits to picking fights in a relationship when she gets bored or insecure about not being number one”.
“With high expectations and a lot to lose, Melinda wants an ambitious man who is equally business-minded, understands her lifestyle and won’t be clingy – but he must be patient.”
No pressure then Layton.
MAFS screens tonight at 7.30pm on Channel 9 with catch up available on 9Now.
