Born in Sydney, Australia, Brett moved to the United States in 1992 with the original partners of Solatube International Inc. While finishing his education in international business and marketing at The University of San Diego, Brett was selected as a member of the Alpha Kappa Psi professional Business Fraternity. Brett joined Solatube Global Marketing Inc. at its formation in 1998 and served as its Director of Marketing and later as Vice President of Sales and Marketing until becoming President in 2006. He currently serves on the board of directors for other San Diego area businesses including Solatube Global Marketing Inc., International Marketing Group LLC and HHH Properties LLC.

Brett was elected to the San Diego Area District Export Council in 2007 and is an active member of the San Diego International Trade Advisory Board. He is currently serving on the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce Sustainability Committee and is also an active member of The Entrepreneurs Organization (EO). Brett is currently participating in the MIT/EO Entrepreneurial Masters Program (Formerly "Birthing Of Giants") class of 2010. Nominated for the 2008 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Hanley has subsequently been selected as the 2009 Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneur of The Year.