No Limitations: Recent Episodes
Blenheim Partners
A series regarded amongst the most inspiring and honest conversations with elite world class performing men and women across a broad genre covering the issues, opportunities and challenges confronting them. Gregory Robinson, Managing Partner at Blenheim Partners Executive Search and Board Advisory firm discovers the influences that have shaped their destinies, unlocking crucial insights into each guests core character, their motivation, broader thinking, strategies and approach they have taken to succeed. In a thought provoking show that breaks with the status quo, the guests and “first among equals”, reveal their secrets, triumphs and disappointments with rare personal insight and learnings that you may wish to adopt in today’s rapidly changing and competitive global landscape.
In Episode 173 of the No Limitations Podcast, Game Changer, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Adam Driussi, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Quantium and Chairman of Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs Rugby League Club Ltd.
In this thoughtful, illuminating and at times confronting conversation, Adam shares his professional journey, from the early days as a young entrepreneur, the creation of Quantium, and how Quantium, through the transformative power of data, has markedly assisted in the improvement of operational performance, customer engagement and growth for organisations across multiple sectors and geographies. Adam then challenges us all with his candid and sobering synopsis of AI, and how the speed of change is unlocking new horizons and will extinguish others who fail to embrace the new world. He shares his personal story with AI, his digital twin, and the Gus Gould digital twin as we learn of Adam’s lifelong passion for sport and his insights as the Chair of the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs for not just the sport but business and leadership.
Quantium is a leading Australian data science and artificial intelligence company that helps global brands deploy AI systems, optimise supply chains, and analyse customer behaviours across retail, banking, telecommunications, and healthcare. Prior to founding Quantium in 2002, Adam was a Partner at Deloitte working in actuarial and analytics consulting. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries of Australia and a Fellow of the Financial Services Institute of Australia.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 7 July 2026.
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In Episode 172 of the No Limitations Podcast The Fight Has Just Begun, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Geoff Wilson AO, Chairman and Chief Investment Officer of Wilson Asset Management.
In this engaging conversation, Geoff discusses why he believes Australia is at a critical economic crossroads, arguing that rising taxes on capital and Australian businesses risk reducing productivity, discouraging entrepreneurship, limiting investment, and making it harder for younger generations to build wealth. Drawing on decades of investment experience, Geoff explores the importance of patient capital, share ownership, business growth and economic incentives, while also sharing his views on government policy, the future of the ASX, AI, leadership, philanthropy, and the opportunities Australia must protect if it is to remain a nation that rewards ambition, risk-taking and hard work.
Geoff brings more than 46 years of direct experience in investment markets, having held a variety of senior investment roles in Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States. Geoff founded Wilson Asset Management in 1997, which today comprises 20 investment professionals who together offer more than 250 years of investment experience. The investment firm manages approximately $6 billion on behalf of more than 130,000 investors as the investment manager for nine listed investment companies (LICs), of which Geoff is Chair of eight, and four unlisted funds: Wilson Asset Management Leaders Fund, Wilson Asset Management Founders Fund, Wilson Asset Management Real Assets Fund and Wilson Asset Management Equity Fund. Geoff is also the Founder and Director of Future Generation Australia Limited and Future Generation Global Limited, and Director of WAM Alternative Assets Limited. In 2014, Geoff created Australia’s first listed philanthropic wealth creation vehicles, Future Generation Australia, and subsequently Future Generation Global in 2015. In 2024, Geoff was involved in the launch of the first all-female managed fund in Australia, Future Generation Women, delivering investment returns and advancing economic equality and opportunities for women and their children in Australia. To this day, the Future Generation companies have donated over $100 million to Australian not-for-profits. Additionally, Geoff holds a number of additional directorships with investment companies and non-profit organisations.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 2 July 2026.
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In Episode 171 of the No Limitations Podcast The Dirty Mix, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Lt. Col. Jahara “Franky” Matisek (PhD), Principal Consultant, JLM Strategy and Research; Senior Fellow at the Payne Institute for Public Policy; and Visiting Scholar at Northwestern University.
In a wide-ranging discussion, Franky returns to talk on the shifting global geopolitical and economic landscape, which is centred on what he describes as the “revenge of the industrial age”. Franky argues that decades of globalisation have left Western economies dangerously dependent on complex international supply chains, particularly for critical minerals, energy, manufacturing and technology inputs that are increasingly controlled by geopolitical rivals such as China, Russia and Iran. Franky also explores the breakdown of the post-Cold War international order, the rise of nationalism and strategic competition, the growing importance of industrial capacity, and the weaponisation of trade, resources and supply chains. He also discusses major geopolitical flashpoints including Iran, Israel, Russia, Ukraine, NATO, Africa, China and the future of AUKUS, while highlighting how emerging technologies such as AI, drones, autonomous systems and quantum computing are transforming warfare and economic power.
Franky is a decorated Command Pilot at the United States Air Force, where he has served for over two decades and completed over 1,300 combat hours in major operations such as Iraq and Afghanistan. Franky has over 3,700 hours of flight time in the C-17, E-11 BACN, T-6, and T-53; and has earned a Bronze Star in 2020 for commanding airbase operations at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. Franky is currently a Principal Consultant at JLM Strategy and Research, a Fellow at the Payne Institute for Public Policy and the Co-Principal Investigator at the Defense Security Cooperation University. Franky also holds a PhD in political science from Northwestern University where he is also Visiting Researcher.
Franky was a Military Professor at the U.S. Naval War College. He was also a Research Fellow at the European Resilience Initiative Center, SAGE Fellow at AFWERX, Fellow at the Irregular Warfare Initiative and an Associate Professor in MSS & Director of Research for SWC at United States Air Force Academy. In addition, he was the Minerva Co-Principal Investigator and Researcher at the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. He is currently the most published active-duty officer serving with 2 books and over 200 articles on the defense industrial base, strategy, and warfare.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 24 June 2026.
Disclaimer: The views of Lt. Col. Matisek are his own and not those of the U.S. Air Force, Department of War, or the U.S. Government.
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In Episode 170 of the No Limitations Podcast, There's a Better Way, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Lt. Gen. David A. Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Dean of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies and Senior Scholar at the U.S. Air Force Academy Institute for Future Conflict.
In a far-reaching discussion, David offers insights from decades of experience spanning warfighting, technology, strategy, and leadership. He explores how the character of conflict is changing, how great power competition is reshaping global security, and what these shifts demand of leaders, both military and civilian, in an increasingly uncertain world.
David is a pioneer in planning and executing aerospace operations at the highest levels of national security. He has operated at the sharp end of combat, at the centre of joint and coalition command, and at the strategic heart of Pentagon decision-making.
David was the principal attack planner for Operation Desert Storm, widely regarded as the most successful air campaign in modern military history. In the wake of September 11, he led the Combined Air and Space Operations Center, orchestrating America’s initial response and shaping the air campaign over Afghanistan. He has twice served as a Combined and Joint Task Force Commander, commanded No-Fly Zone operations over Iraq, and led air operations in both major combat and humanitarian missions from the Middle East to Antarctica and the South Asia tsunami relief effort.
He was also the first U.S. Air Force Chief of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance, where he transformed the ISR and remotely piloted aircraft enterprise, setting standards that have since been emulated by militaries around the world. As a Command Pilot, David has over 3,000 flying hours, including 400 hours in combat.
Beyond uniformed service, David has continued to shape strategic thinking as the Dean of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies and as a Senior Scholar at the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Institute for Future Conflict. He has served on congressional commissions on the future of U.S. Defense, advised governments and institutions globally, and has been recognised as one of the most influential figures in U.S. Defense for his lifetime contribution to national security thought and practice. David is also featured in the book “Airpower Pioneers: From Billy Mitchell to Dave Deptula”.
Please note this episode was recorded on 8 May 2026.
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In Episode 169 of the No Limitations Podcast, Run a Straight Line, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Fred Harrison, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Ritchies Stores Pty Ltd.
In a grounded and candid discussion, Fred reflects on the economic pressures shaping retail, highlighting how rising living costs are creating a two-speed economy, forcing many families to cut back on their shopping while at the same time others continue to spend freely. He underscores the mounting strain of inflation, particularly its lasting impact on small businesses through rising CPI-linked costs and what the Independent Retailers do against the intense competition from the major supermarket chains. He examines Ritchies' point of difference, their personalised service, high-quality fresh foods, competitive pricing and exceptional community engagement.
We learn of the essence of trust and the return in loyalty, whilst gaining insight into a business founded on strong values and respect for their people. As Fred looks forward, he stresses the need for growth through expansion and reinvestment, alongside strong leadership grounded in optimism, honesty, and resilience, ultimately arguing that integrity and a strong culture are key to future long-term success.
Fred has built a distinguished career spanning more than 50 years with Ritchies, beginning as a casual employee in 1975 while still attending Frankston High School. He secured his first full-time role as Assistant Manager at the Thompson Street store in Frankston, before gaining broad operational experience as a relief manager across the company’s early network of six stores. By the age of 20, he was appointed Store Manager of Ritchies Bayside, then the company’s leading location.
Progressing steadily through the organisation, Fred was appointed General Manager in 1984 and later Chief Executive Officer and Director in 1994. Under his leadership, Ritchies has grown to more than 85 supermarkets and liquor stores, employing approximately 6,000 team members and generating an annual turnover of around $1.4 billion. His enduring passion for the industry and significant contributions to independent retail have established him as one of Australia’s most accomplished retailers, recognised by his induction into the IGA Hall of Fame in July 2016.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 14 April 2026.
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In Episode 168 of the No Limitations Podcast, Crash or Crash Through, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with David Williams, Chairman of Kidder Williams Ltd.
In a stimulating and thought-provoking conversation, David shares his stories and explores the evolution of investment banking in Australia and the critical role capital plays in scaling innovative businesses. He also shares firsthand perspectives on high‑profile transactions across pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and agribusiness, and reflects on the strategic decisions behind building globally competitive companies from Australia. He also offers his perspective on the Australian Federal Budget and where the nation stands economically, highlighting the opportunities and challenges shaping the country’s landscape. David further discusses the realities of principal investing, leadership in complex markets, and what it takes to turn breakthrough medical technologies into commercially successful and life‑saving products.
David is one of Australia’s most prominent investment bankers in healthcare and agriculture, with decades of experience advising leading companies on mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and strategy. He has played a pivotal role in landmark transactions, including the return of Vegemite to Australian ownership, the sale of SPC, and the global rollout of innovative medical technologies such as the Green Whistle pain relief device and PolyNovo Ltd’s wound care platform. He has also built a strong track record as a principal investor, helping transform businesses such as Tassal Group and Medical Developments International Ltd into global success stories, while contributing to the growth of life‑saving medical innovations.
Alongside his advisory and investment work, David has had an extensive board career, serving as Chairman and Director across a wide range of public and private companies. He is currently Chairman of Kidder Williams Ltd, where he was the former Managing Director, Seminal Artist Group, Mobile Tyre Shop, RMA Global Ltd and Arovella Therapeutics Ltd and has previously held chairmanships at PolyNovo Ltd, INOVIQ Ltd, Tassal Group, Clever Communications Australia Ltd and Medical Developments International Ltd. He also held various Non-Executive Director roles spanning multiple sectors including healthcare, technology, consumer, and agriculture, reflecting a deep expertise in governance, growth, and strategic transformation. David has also held senior M&A leadership roles at Societe Generale, Challenger Corporate Finance, SG Hambros, ANZ McCaughan, and Arthur Andersen, and was recognised as Chairman of the Year 2017 by Biotech Daily.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 14 May 2026.
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In Episode 167 of the No Limitations Podcast, Unfinished Symphony, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Patrick Forth, Group Executive Director, Connected Economy at Future Secure AI.
In a wide‑ranging and forward‑looking conversation, Patrick explores the strategic implications and misconceptions of AI adoption and Generative AI. He also discusses digital transformation and how it remains the main challenge for companies today, given the vast potential of AI. Patrick also reflects on the long-term strategy and leadership challenges amid rapid technological change across industries.
Patrick currently serves on multiple boards across Australia and Asia, bringing over 35 years of experience advising boards, CEOs, and senior executives globally across all industries, with a focus on technology, media, and telecommunications. His current board appointments include being a Non‑Executive Director at Axiata in Malaysia, Chair of Fabulate, a leading influencer marketing solutions provider, and Chair of Teach For Australia, a not‑for‑profit organisation focused on addressing educational inequity nationwide. He is also a Board Member of the Association of Rhodes Scholars Australia through the Rhodes Trust, and a long‑standing Advisory Board Member at the Australian Graduate School of Management at UNSW Business School. Patrick was previously a Senior Advisor with Boston Consulting Group and was formerly a member of its global leadership team, leading its Technology, Media and Telecommunications practice with double-digit growth for 8 years. Patrick was also a founding Board member of BCG Digital Ventures, which has built over 200 new businesses in partnership with corporations and launched BCG's Growth Tech Practice. Prior Patrick was a Rolls Royce Research Fellow at the University of Oxford, developing cooling and performance solutions for gas turbines.
His experience covers digital technology, advanced analytics and AI, leadership, strategy and direction, portfolio/M&A, growth, transformation and operational improvement, organisation and performance improvement. His domain expertise covers fixed and mobile telecommunications, software, enterprise ICT, devices, all media categories and digital transformations in all industry sectors. He has lived and worked in the United Kingdom, Europe, the U.S., South-East Asia, Africa and Australia. Patrick was also named by the Australian Financial Review as one of Australia's most powerful consultants in 2022.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 8 April 2026.
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In Episode 166 of the No Limitations Podcast, The Real Agenda, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Col. J. David “Dave” Patterson (Ret.), Former Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense in the 43rd Presidential Administration, National Security Contributor for Liberty Nation News and Executive Advisor to SMA, Inc.
In an in‑depth conversation, Dave draws on decades of Military, Policy, and Defense-Industry experience to examine the evolving national security environment, highlighting how global affairs and major power dynamics are reshaping the U.S. security priorities. He also explores the challenges facing the U.S and other nations around the globe as they seek to navigate strategic and political uncertainty in an era of intensified great‑power rivalry and persistent geopolitical risk.
Dave is a former non‑paid Special Government Employee, where he served on the Defense Science Board Taskforce on the Defense Industrial Base and advised senior Defense Department leadership on strengthening U.S. industrial base capabilities and internal organizational efficiency. His senior government service includes serving as Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) during the Bush 43 Administration, where he helped oversee a Department of Defense budget exceeding $515 billion, represented the Comptroller on the Defense Acquisition Board, supported the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure process, led acquisition reform efforts, and managed Department of Defense financial policy and modernisation initiatives. Dave also served as Special Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense and led the Defense Acquisition Performance Assessment Project, gaining deep insight into Pentagon decision‑making and operations. He also served in the U.S. Air Force from 1970 to 1993, retiring as a colonel after combat service in Vietnam and senior leadership roles across operational, joint, and Pentagon assignments. His private‑sector experience includes executive leadership at McDonnell Douglas/Boeing and directing the National Defense Business Institute, and he holds a Top Secret/SCI‑eligible clearance, a master’s degree from Chapman University, and is a graduate of the NATO Defense College.
Please note this episode was recorded on 1 April 2026.
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In Episode 165 of the No Limitations Podcast, It’s an Odds Game, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Peter West, a Non-Executive Director of Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd and Former Regional Managing Director, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners for Australia, Pacific and South-East Asia.
In a perceptive and incisive discussion, Peter draws on his leadership experience across Mars, Arnott’s, Lion, and Coca‑Cola Europacific Partners to explore how ownership structures influence business performance and decision‑making. He also discusses the evolving challenges confronting consumer‑facing businesses amid economic uncertainty, shifting consumer behaviour, and increasing operational complexity. Beyond this, he explores how global brands must balance growth, productivity, and resilience while navigating cost pressures.
Peter held various senior executive roles at Coca Cola Amatil, before it was acquired by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners in 2021. He was also previously Managing Director for Australia, New Zealand, and Asia at Lion Dairy & Drinks, a subsidiary of the Japanese beverage conglomerate, Kirin Holdings Company Ltd. Peter spent two phases of his career at Mars. It was the training ground for his early development, where he started in the Pet Care business. He returned to Mars in 2005, where he was General Manager – Australia and simultaneously ran the marketing for the Snickers Brand. He was also appointed Regional President for Continental Europe and served as the strategic leader for the M&M Brand, which he was significantly involved in launching. Additionally, he was General Manager at Arnott’s Australia and New Zealand, having held a range of senior leadership roles during his time with the organisation.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 26 March 2026.
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In Episode 164 of the No Limitations Podcast, We’re Getting Gamed, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Craig Tindale, a Private Investor and a Financial and Economic Analyst.
In a profound and sharply astute discussion, Craig delivers a compelling assessment of where global power and influence truly reside. In doing so, he exposes who is shaping the world’s future, the forces at play, the strategies at work, and the high‑stakes contest unfolding on the international stage. He reveals how this struggle is woven through an intricate web of energy dominance, technological supremacy, rare‑earth control, international finance, global investment flows, and the race for future reserve currencies.
He spent four decades at the nexus of Western capital, Asian production, and global financial infrastructure, holding senior regional leadership roles at Oracle, IBM, Telstra, and multiple U.S. technology firms. Across this period, he delivered large‑scale outsourcing, systems integration, and infrastructure programs, installing and operating hundreds of enterprise systems across banking, payments, telecommunications, logistics, and manufacturing. He represented American and multinational vendors throughout Asia as billions in production shifted offshore, working directly with central banks, telcos, financial institutions, and national infrastructure operators. His career included two major Telstra joint ventures, leading Australia’s largest outsourcing deal, a $3.2B contract to IBM and building multiple Asia‑Pacific businesses from the ground up as Regional VP for several U.S. companies. A frequent keynote speaker and founder of numerous successful start‑ups, he developed a granular, operational understanding of how trade, finance, and production interlock under real‑world pressure. From 2018 to 2025, he ran a private family office investing in logistics, fintech, and environmental technology, including hands‑on strategy work with AirSeed Technologies in drone‑based carbon farming. Most recently, Craig authored the influential paper “Critical Materials: A Strategic Analysis”, examining the geopolitical and supply‑chain vulnerabilities facing Western economies today.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 18 March 2026.
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In Episode 163 of the No Limitations Podcast, In The Shadow of War, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Rear Admiral Lee Goddard CSC, a Non-Executive Director of Austal Ltd.
In a candid and perceptive discussion, Lee evaluates the current geopolitical environment and explains how rising tensions in the Middle East are amplifying friction among major Western powers. He also highlights the significance of Australia maintaining strong capabilities to address both anticipated and unforeseen security threats, as well as the challenges the nation may encounter in an increasingly polarised global arena.
Prior to becoming an Active Reserve Officer in 2021, Lee was dual appointed as Commander – Maritime Border Command and Operation Sovereign Borders, where he was responsible for the law enforcement and operational oversight of Australia’s maritime economic and security zones. From 2017 to 2019, Lee also served a two-year secondment in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. In 2014, he was promoted to Commodore and assumed the role of Commander Surface Fleet, commanding 18 major warships. Lee is currently a Non-Executive Director of Austal Ltd, the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation, Southern Launch, Pymble Ladies College and the Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation. He is also a Strategic Advisor to Saronic Technologies, Salus Ventures, and Famille Capital, as well as Chairman and Race Director of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Lee is also a former Company Director of Ocius Technologies, The Whiskey Project Group and the Australian Missile Corporation, where he was the inaugural CEO.
Please note this episode was recorded on 11 March 2026.
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In Episode 162 of the No Limitations Podcast, Sword and Shield, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Ian Roberts, a former Australian and New South Wales professional Rugby League player and Director of Venues NSW.
In an open and insightful conversation, Ian reflects on his personal journey, recounting the challenges he faced both on and off the field and the key individuals who helped shape the person he is today. Ian discusses the sense of empowerment he discovered through his acting career, and how learning to read and write as an adult freed him from a lifelong burden of shame. Finally, Ian speaks about how he has used his professional identity and platform to strengthen education and foster more open discussions around social inclusion and mental health.
Ian played professional Rugby League from 1985 to 1998, making nine State of Origin appearances for New South Wales and playing in thirteen Test Matches with the Australian Kangaroos. During his distinguished career, Ian has represented multiple national and international professional Rugby League clubs, including the South Sydney Rabbitohs, Wigan Warriors, Manly Warringah Sea Eagles and the North Queensland Cowboys. In 1994, at the height of his sporting career – Ian publicly came out as gay, becoming the second man internationally in a professional sports team to do so. Post retirement, Ian has become a strong advocate for LGBTIQ+ rights and an experienced wellbeing educator, particularly in the area of mental health. He is a Director of Venues NSW, an official patron of ACON’s Pride in Sports, and a member of the NSW LGBTIQ+ Advisory Council. He was also a Founding Director of Qtopia Sydney, Sydney’s first LGBTIQ+ Museum located on Taylor Square. Ian is also the subject of the upcoming documentary “Light – The Ian Roberts Story”.
If you would like to support Ian and the team in the upcoming documentary, please click here: https://documentaryaustralia.com.au/project/light-the-ian-roberts-story/
Please note this episode was recorded on 2 February 2026.
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In Episode 161 of the No Limitations podcast Follow Your North Star, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Clare Pearson, Chief Executive Officer of Little Wings.
In a compassionate discussion, Clare speaks about the important mission of Little Wings, a charity which provides transport services for children with life-threatening illnesses in regional and rural areas, ensuring they get access to major metropolitan hospitals and healthcare facilities. Clare calls upon us all to act in the spirit of Christmas and the ethos of giving to those in need, whether through small or large donations, or as an individual or corporate donor, especially as charities require greater funding in order to keep pace with the rapid increase in demand for their services. Lastly, Clare shares some valuable lessons she has learned as both a charity and organisational leader and unveils her leadership philosophy, which is centred around self-belief, benevolence and teamwork.
Clare started her career as a Child Protection Case Worker with the Department of Family and Community Services in New South Wales, before becoming an Executive Manager at Children First in Sydney. Thereafter, Clare moved into senior executive roles, first as the Chief Executive Officer of Project Future, working against human trafficking, before becoming the Chief Executive Officer of Little Wings. Clare has also served on a number of Boards including Share Care Incorporated, Bobby Goldsmith Foundation, Allevia Disability Services, Bankstown Sports Club, and Southern Cross University.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 11 November 2025.
Below you will see Clare Pearson sharing the Little Wings Christmas Wish and the Blenheim Partners Christmas Album. So, enjoy your favourite Christmas tunes as we all get into the Christmas spirit and festivities.
Blenheim Partners Christmas Playlist
or
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bVVmuk9nxc&list=PLQZ-dkpAAUFRD6MhYDEWe92VzNR8IyYzt
Together, we can make a difference. To make a donation to Little Wings, please visit:
https://www.littlewings.org.au/ways-to-donate/
or
Donate – Little Wings
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In Episode 160 of the No Limitations podcast Discipline is a Price Worth Paying, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with David Moffatt, Chairman of Ventia Services Group Ltd.
In a lively conversation, David offers a refreshing perspective about the future of business in Australia, challenging the pessimism that often dominates Boardrooms regarding innovation, productivity and growth. He encourages us to focus on the tremendous potential and opportunity that this country has to offer, but also stresses that better policies need to be in place to attract capital and foreign investment. He adds that as a society, we must value the concept of mastery if we are to unleash top talent and thrive as a global economy. David also asserts that businesses must take a proactive approach to risk management, particularly as the shifting geopolitical landscape continues to redefine how we think about energy security, cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence. Finally, David shares his greatest learnings throughout his global career as a Chief Executive Officer (CEO), as well as key defining moments that have shaped his leadership philosophy.
David’s early career included serving as the CEO of General Electric (GE) and GE Capital Australia and New Zealand. In 2001, he was appointed to the Board of The Foxtel Group as a Director and Chair of the Finance Committee. At the same time, David took on the role of Chief Financial Officer at Telstra Group Ltd, before being promoted to Group Managing Director – Consumer. In 2012, David was appointed as CEO of Lebara Mobile, based in the United Kingdom, and became Founding Chairman – Australia of American tech care company Asurion. In 2015, David joined Ventia Services Group Ltd as Chairman and served as the Group Chief Executive who led the acquisition of Broadspectrum Australia and New Zealand. Currently, David is also the Chairman – Australia and New Zealand of Apollo Global Management, Inc., and the American Chamber of Commerce in Australia.
David’s community and charitable activities include being a Founding Director of Giant Steps, a Sydney school for autistic children and a former Chairman of the Finance Committee and Director of Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation and St Michael’s Grammar School. David was also involved with the development of the heritage management plan for “The Lost Battlefield of Kokoda” and as a financial supporter of education and health programs through The Kokoda Track Foundation.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 9 October 2025.
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In Episode 159 of the No Limitations podcast Bumps on the Road, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Alf Ianniello, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Codan Ltd.
In an earnest discussion, Alf contends that Australian businesses must invest more in research and development to deliver world-class intellectual property, which can be commercialised, manufactured and scaled at pace, and lead to a competitive advantage in the global marketplace.
Today, Alf is Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Codan Ltd, a role he stepped into in January 2022. With more than three decades of global leadership across packaging, defence, and automotive industries, Alf has a proven track record of driving growth, innovation, and cultural transformation. Before Codan Ltd, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Detmold Group for fourteen years, where he successfully expanded the business across existing and new markets, and positioned the company as a global leader in sustainable packaging. Known for his ability to leverage innovation and foster organisational excellence, Alf now leads Codan Ltd’s global expansion strategy, building on the company’s proud heritage while steering it toward a more sustainable and diversified future.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 26 August 2025.
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In Episode 158 of the No Limitations Podcast, To Stand the Test of Time, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Paul Hitchcock, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Patties Food Group Pty Ltd.
In a robust and engaging conversation, Paul recounts how a meeting over coffee marked the beginning of a distinguished executive journey spanning multiple sectors across both listed and private equity domains, sharing valuable insights on growth, people and real leadership. Paul also dissects the “public vs private” debate and the future of the Australian markets as the emphasis on doing business vs governance is brought into stark reality. Finally, Paul speaks about the beauty of the great Australian meat pie and how Patties is bringing some of the nation’s largest household names to new international markets and audiences.
Patties Food Group is an Australian food manufacturing company whose portfolio includes brands such as Four’N Twenty, Herbert Adams, and Lean Cuisine. Paul is also a former CEO of Primo Foods, Petuna Aquaculture, and office products company Corporate Express, which he led to a successful sale to American office products supplier Staples, Inc. in 2008. Earlier in his career, Paul served in Sales Director roles with Lion Nathan Ltd (now Lion) and Goodman Fielder, where he was later promoted to Managing Director for Goodman Fielder Commercial and Asia Pacific businesses.
Please note this episode was recorded on 15 September 2025.
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In Episode 157 of the No Limitations Podcast, Judgement In The Heat of Battle, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Darryl Cuzzubbo, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Arafura Rare Earths Ltd.
In a highly topical discussion, Darryl outlines how recent government investments in rare-earth mineral procurement, both domestically and internationally, aim to diversify supply chains and reduce global dependence on the dominant supplier, China. He provides an in-depth view of Arafura Rare Earths, sharing how the success of the Nolans Project could position Australia as a global leader in the supply of an increasingly critical natural resource that will be essential for the world’s future economies. Darryl emphasises the need for further collaboration between industry and government leaders, increased investment in education and technology, and a more pragmatic dialogue on energy supply to safeguard the nation’s economic future.
Darryl initially joined Arafura Rare Earths Ltd as a Non-Executive Director before he was appointed into his current position of Managing Director and CEO in early 2024. Arafura is an ASX-listed mineral development company. Its flagship operation is the Nolans Project, a proposed mine and processing plant located in the Northern Territory that will produce Neodymium and Praseodymium, key inputs for the industrial magnets predominantly used in the manufacturing of electric vehicles and wind turbines. Prior to Arafura, Darryl was Managing Director and CEO of SolGold plc, an Ecuador-based mineral exploration and development company. Darryl was also previously employed at mining and infrastructure solutions provider Orica Ltd, where he held several senior leadership roles, including Group Executive and President Australia, Pacific and Asia and Chief Manufacturing Officer. Darryl commenced his professional career with BHP Group Ltd, and over his 25-year tenure, held several senior project and operational roles, ultimately becoming President of Olympic Dam, one of the world's most significant deposits of copper, gold, and uranium.
Please note this episode was recorded on 14 July 2025.
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In Episode 156 of the No Limitations Podcast, Opportunities Don’t Come Gift-Wrapped, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jake Klein, Chair of Evolution Mining Ltd.
In a necessary discussion for the future of Australia, Jake calls on political and industry leaders to articulate a clear and strategic vision, with well-thought-out policy that extends beyond the election cycle, to protect and grow our nation's core competitive advantage for the benefit of later generations. Jake also shares his professional journey and outlines the pivotal moments that took him from the Bullion Division of Macquarie Bank to navigating China’s emerging gold market at Sino Gold, before ultimately returning to Australia to create and build Evolution Mining. Finally, Jake outlines the key qualities he values in emerging leaders, highlighting the importance of proactively seizing opportunities and having the courage to make difficult decisions.
Evolution Mining is Australia’s second-largest ASX-listed gold miner and currently operates six mines across Australia and Canada. Evolution Mining is also one of the lowest-cost, highest-margin gold producers in the world. Prior to founding Evolution Mining, Jake was the President and Chief Executive Officer of Sino Gold Mining Ltd, a listed gold mining company and one of the largest foreign participants in the Chinese Gold industry, which was later acquired by Eldorado Gold Corporation in 2009. Prior to Sino Gold, Jake worked in the Bullion Division of Macquarie Bank Ltd and commenced his career with PwC in South Africa. Jake is also a former Non-Executive Director of OceanaGold Ltd and Lynas Corporation (now Lynas Rare Earths Ltd).
Please note this episode was recorded on 15 May 2025.
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In Episode 155 of the No Limitations podcast, I Want to Do Something That Scares Me, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Cynthia Scott, Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director of Zip Co Ltd.
In a spirited and insightful discussion, Cynthia offers a discerning perspective on how recent economic disruptions, though daunting, create significant growth opportunities for those daring enough to seize them. Reflecting on personal experience, Cynthia shares the defining challenges she faced as CEO at Zip Co, which were instrumental in reshaping her approach to leadership and the transformation of the company itself. She also outlines the enormous opportunities for Zip Co and its positive trajectory in American and local markets and retraces the pivotal moments that influenced her professional journey, closing with a powerful message on personal setbacks, the naysayers, and the greatest opportunities in disguise.
Prior to Zip Co, Cynthia was the Chief Strategy and Business Development Officer at Scentre Group Ltd and also held several senior executive roles at Telstra Group Ltd, including Group Executive for the New Business portfolio. Cynthia also spent 20 years across multiple investment banks, including UBS, Merrill Lynch International, Westpac Institutional Bank and lastly Barclays, where she served as the Regional Head of Debt Capital Markets in Hong Kong and CEO of Australia and New Zealand. Cynthia is currently a Non-Executive Director at Uniti Group and was previously Chair of Foxtel Group, Telstra Ventures (now Titanium Ventures) and Chinese technology company Autohome Inc. She is also a member of the Adara Panel and Chief Executive Women and previously served on the Board of Room to Read. From 2020 to 2021, Cynthia was a Principal at Monaro Advisory Partners, where she provided strategic and operational advice to both Board and leadership teams.
Please note this episode was recorded on 14 May 2025.
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In Episode 154 of the No Limitations podcast, The Quantum Cold War, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Rob Jesudason, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Founding Partner of Serendipity Capital.
In a provocative discussion, Rob warns that increasing geopolitical tensions are heightening security risks as we shift towards a multipolar world order. He emphasises that the lack of sufficient investment from governments and businesses in technologies critical to national security, could put countries at a disadvantage, leaving both their physical and technological infrastructure vulnerable. Rob also closely examines the implications of Artificial Intelligence and questions whether economies like Australia can effectively leverage its resources and implement a long-term strategy to address current challenges in productivity, tax policy and investment incentives. Finally, Rob explores the complexities of building a business from scratch, sharing candid insights and personal anecdotes of his journey transitioning from a Senior Executive at Commonwealth Bank of Australia to founding Serendipity Capital.
Rob began his career at GE Capital in the United Kingdom before joining McKinsey & Company for four years. For the next 16 years, Rob held various senior leadership positions at several major banks, including Barclays Bank PLC, J.P. Morgan, Credit Suisse and Commonwealth Bank of Australia, where he was appointed as Chief Financial Officer in 2017. He also served as a Non-Executive Director of ASB Bank, PT Bank Commonwealth and TymeBank. Rob was appointed President of Block.one in 2018, before relocating to Singapore, where he founded Serendipity Capital, an early-stage investment firm that is focused on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, climate and sustainability, quantum technologies and security. In addition to being the CEO, Rob is also the Chief Investment Officer and is responsible for recommending investment decisions to the Investment Committee. He is a Non-Executive Director of several Serendipity portfolio companies including Deep Labs, Pollination and Fortaegis Technologies, and was previously on the Board of Cambridge Quantum Computing. Rob is a Visiting Professor at Aston University.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 6 May 2025.
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In Episode 153 of the No Limitations podcast Phoenix From The Ashes, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with James P. Farwell, Senior Fellow at Sympodium-Institute for Strategic Communications (London).
In an absorbing discussion, James contends that the world today is adrift and in need of a course to steer. Drawing on his background as a political, corporate, communications and national security advisor, James asserts that Donald Trump has used tariffs as an instrument of “purposeful unpredictability” and as a potent negotiating tactic. Turning to China, James believes that Xi Jinping is establishing total control over the Chinese Communist Party, the government and the military, and that Vladimir Putin is seeking to follow in the footsteps of Peter the Great in making Russia a dominant hegemonic power once again. James discusses a range of other interesting topics including cybersecurity, irregular warfare, his fascination with UFOs, and his recent engagement with the film industry in Hollywood. He finishes with a stirring conclusion about the nature of leadership centred around character, integrity and excellence in a thought-provoking conversation.
Earlier in his career, James was a Partner at Chaffe McCall law firm in New Orleans. Thereafter, and for over three decades, James has operated his own consultancy, The Farwell Group, through which he has advised United States and overseas presidential campaigns, gubernatorial candidates from Oklahoma, California, and Arkansas, and legislative candidates from Bermuda, Greece and Korea. James is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute for Biodefense Research. James was previously an Associate Fellow at the Centre for Strategic Communications, Department of War Studies at King’s College in London and a Non-Resident Senior Fellow at the Middle East Logistics High Institute. A talented and prolific writer, James has nearly 130 publications to his name, spanning national security, corporate strategy, communications, cyberwarfare, and creative works including a West End musical and several films in the making.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 23 April 2025.
Disclaimer: the opinions expressed in this podcast are James’ own and do not represent those of the United States government.
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In Episode 152 of the No Limitations podcast Culture Trumps All, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Steve Sargent, Chairman of Nanosonics Ltd and Non-Executive Director of Ramsay Health Care Ltd.
In a reflective yet upbeat conversation, Steve delves into the core principles which helped establish General Electric (GE) as one of the greatest leadership factories of the 21st century. He dissects the company’s performance-oriented culture, emphasising the importance of seamless operating systems as well as the power of candid communication and messaging. Steve challenges us to critically assess GE’s renowned leadership methodologies, such as Six Sigma, and whether they could still be employed by modern CEOs in today’s evolving business world. Finally, Steve offers his perspective on the broader business leadership challenges at both the Executive and Board level, and how the shifting geopolitical landscape may reshape the global economy and provide unprecedented and untapped opportunities for Australia.
Steve began his career at Westpac Banking Corporation before moving to the United States, where he joined GE. Over the next 25 years, he held a variety of leadership roles within the company, ultimately serving as Chief Executive Officer and President, Global Mining. Steve was the first Australian appointed as a member of the company’s 45-member Corporate Executive Council and as an Officer of GE in the company’s long-standing history. Currently, Steve is the Chairman of Nanosonics Ltd and Non-Executive Director of Ramsay Health Care Ltd. He is also Chairman of the Origin Energy Foundation, Origin Energy’s philanthropic arm, and serves on the Board of The Great Barrier Reef Foundation and is a Non-Executive Director of Lumitron Technologies Inc.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 11 March 2025.
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In Episode 151 of the No Limitations podcast Commitment Bordering on Obsession, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with David Dicker, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Dicker Data Ltd and Founder of Rodin Cars.
In a relaxed yet discerning conversation, David reflects on his unique entrepreneurial journey. He recounts the pivotal moments and tribulations that propelled Dicker Data from its humble beginnings to the nation’s largest locally owned and operated ICT distributor. David shares the guiding principles that have been fundamental to his success, offering valuable insight to his approach to business strategy, the need for standards and translating it all into a remarkable growth story.
Finally, David takes the opportunity to discuss the new world, the political landscape, and what is next over the horizon.
Upon finishing high school, David pursued a refrigeration mechanics apprenticeship before joining his father’s building business. In 1978, he co-founded a computer company originally called the microcomputer division of AJ and JW Dicker.
The company later rebranded to Dicker Data and in 2011, was listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. Dicker Data is a distributor of computer hardware, software, and cloud products, serving over 5,000 registered reseller partners annually. David is also the founder of Rodin Cars, an emerging high-technology, high-performance track car developer based in New Zealand.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 19 March 2025.
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In Episode 150 of the No Limitations podcast Back to the Whiteboard, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with John Mullen, Chair of Qantas Airways Ltd, Brambles Ltd and Treasury Wine Estates Ltd.
In a topical discussion, John confronts the challenges plaguing Australian corporate Boardrooms, highlighting how these issues could undermine productivity and threaten the future growth of the nation. Drawing from his rich experience leading TNT and DHL Express, John shares his war stories and invaluable learnings, revealing the people challenges that continue to resonate in today’s corporate world. He offers a stark warning that over-regulation on ASX-listed entities is driving top talent away from public companies to the Boardrooms and management ranks of private capital. John concludes by emphasising that governance initiatives such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) should not be a mere tick-box exercise but rather something that should be strategically pursued if they add tangible value to the organisation.
John spent his early career with TNT Group, where he held several leadership positions, including as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TNT Express Worldwide from 1990 to 1994. He then advanced to the DHL Group, where he became Global CEO of DHL Express in 2006. John’s executive career continued as he served as Managing Director and CEO of Asciano Ltd, one of Australia’s largest port and rail operators, before taking on the role of Executive Chairman at The Toll Group. John served on the Board of Telstra Group Ltd from 2008 and held the position of Chairman from 2016 to 2023. Currently, John is the Chair of Qantas Airways Ltd, Brambles Ltd, Treasury Wine Estates Ltd, and Scyne Advisory, a PwC spin-off. He also serves as a Director at Brookfield Infrastructure Corporation, a US-based asset management firm.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 14 March 2025.
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In Episode 149 of the No Limitations podcast Accelerate and Boom, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Michael Reid, Chief Executive Officer of Megaport Ltd.
In an illuminating discussion, Michael first expresses optimism about the future of the United States and the wider world. Turning to his current role, Michael explains the technical features behind Megaport’s services, and he provides an appraisal of a range of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, data centres, space satellites, and quantum computing. Michael sheds light on the operating culture of Megaport, to disrupt the status quo through constant innovation, and he highlights the steps taken to return the company to profitability after he became the Chief Executive Officer two years ago. Michael addresses several other interesting topics including the need to attract outstanding talent, set an ambitious vision to galvanise a team, and continuously learn from customers.
Michael started his career at CSG, now a part of Fujifilm, in technology sales roles. He then spent over thirteen years at Cisco, mostly in Australia, before rising to become Managing Director of Worldwide Internet of Things Sales based in California. Thereafter, he was Chief Revenue Officer at Thousandeyes, also a part of Cisco, for two years. Michael is now the Chief Executive Officer of Megaport Ltd, and he is an Executive Member of Pavilion, an Advisory Board Member of Women in Digital International, an Advisory Board Member of GrowthQ, and an Advisor at Pano AI.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 3 March 2025.
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In Episode 148 of the No Limitations podcast The Tiger in the Room, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Lt. Col. Jahara “Franky” Matisek, Military Professor at the U.S. Naval War College.
In an erudite discussion, Franky asserts that the United States remains the chief defender of freedom, democracy and the global rules-based order, although he cautions that its political leaders have replaced diplomacy and protocol with unpredictable rhetoric. Turning to the wider world, Franky laments that Russia has become a pariah state with a depleted economy and that China is now a dominant superpower with a hegemonic outlook towards its neighbours in the Asia-Pacific region. Franky also delivers an astute assessment of the strategic significance of other nations such as Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Iran, India, the United Kingdom, and Europe more broadly. Lastly, he shares his leadership philosophy centred around having the courage to follow your passion.
Franky started his career at the United States Air Force as an Officer where he has served for two decades and completed over 1,300 combat hours in major operations such as Iraq and Afghanistan. Franky holds a PhD in political science from Northwestern University and is a Military Professor at the U.S. Naval War College. He is also a Fellow at the Irregular Warfare Initiative, the European Resilience Initiative Center, and the Payne Institute for Public Policy. In addition, he is the Minerva Co-Principal Investigator for improving United States security assistance at the Office of the Under Secretary of Defence for Research and Engineering. Franky is the most published active duty United States military officer with two books and a hundred articles in peer-reviewed journals and policy outlets to his name.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 18 February 2025.
Disclaimer: The views of Lt. Col. Matisek are his own and do not reflect the official positions of the United States Air Force, Naval College, Department of Defence, or United States Government.
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In Episode 147 of the No Limitations podcast Modern Day Miracle, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Ian Wishart, Chief Executive Officer of The Fred Hollows Foundation.
In a stirring discussion, Ian sheds light on the central mission of The Fred Hollows Foundation, which has helped restore sight or prevent blindness for more than 150 million people across 25 countries over the past 30 years. He reflects on his formative years in Port Moresby and how these experiences gave him purpose for helping those less fortunate. We hear of Ian’s early days as he commenced his career in the field of humanitarian aid, where he was deployed to civil war-torn Ethiopia as well as Rwanda, amidst an ongoing tragedy at that time, before dedicating his time to advancing children's rights and promoting gender equality. Ian then turns to his role as Chief Executive Officer of The Fred Hollows Foundation. He shares with us their incredible DNA, where one never accepts the impossible, and how they are bringing together communities, supporters, governments, and experts from around the world to help realise a bold vision of not only restoring sight but changing lives. We learn of an ambitious five-year strategy, their plans for transforming countries, as well as stories of remarkable generosity, from the donors who offer a little amount regularly, why it counts, to the future of corporate partnership, and how it will be a game changer. Constant throughout is the underlying message of the goodness of humanity and its incredible spirit.
Ian brings over three decades of senior leadership in humanitarian, development, and emergency relief work. After university, he commenced his career with World Vision Australia as an Emergency Relief Project Officer before becoming a Manager in the Emergency Relief Unit, a National Director in Laos, and a Strategy Manager based in Melbourne. Thereafter, Ian served as Chief Executive Officer of Plan International Australia for 18 years and also held the role of Global Project Director for five years, leading Plan International’s startup in Hong Kong. Since 2018, Ian has been the Chief Executive Officer of The Fred Hollows Foundation.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 25 November 2024.
Below you will see Ian Wishart sharing the Fred Hollow’s Foundation Christmas Wish and the Blenheim Partners Christmas Album. So, enjoy your favourite Christmas tunes as we all get into the Christmas spirit and festivities.
Blenheim Partners Christmas Playlist
Together, we can make a difference. To make a donation to The Fred Hollows Foundation, please visit:
Donate – The Fred Hollows Foundation
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In Episode 146 of the No Limitations podcast Something is Kind of Wrong, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Matt Barrie, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Freelancer Ltd (ASX:FLN), one of the world’s largest freelancing and crowdsourcing marketplaces with more than 77 million registered users and 25 million projects.
In an illuminating discussion, Matt outlines his various businesses and how they have supported new developments in engineering, aeronautics, and computer science. Reflecting on his past experiences, he explains the drawbacks of venture capitalism compared to “bootstrapping” a business, the strategic value of being late to market, and how advancements in artificial intelligence will significantly change approaches to customer engagement and daily operations. He also highlights the importance of fostering high-performing teams dedicated to delivering life-changing work. Finally, Matt discusses how despite a restrictive regulatory environment, Australia produces good business operators who will guide the nation’s next stage of economic growth.
Matt Barrie is an award-winning technology entrepreneur and a prolific speaker on a variety of topics including entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, and macroeconomics. He is also the Chief Executive of Escrow.com, a world leader in secure online payments and Executive Chairman of Loadshift, Australia’s largest freight marketplace. Prior to Freelancer Ltd, Matt was an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Electrical and Information Engineering Department at the University of Sydney. He also founded and was Chief Executive of Sensory Networks Inc., a vendor of high-performance network security processors.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 8 October 2024.
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In Episode 145 of the No Limitations podcast A Personal Perspective, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Christine McLoughlin AM, Chairman of Suncorp Group Ltd.
In a relaxed discussion, Christine provides an insightful perspective into the insurance and superannuation industries in Australia today but expresses frustration with the lack of equal gender representation on Boards and Executive Teams more broadly. Christine discusses her significant work in the sporting sector through the Minerva Network, alongside other high profile women such as current Governor-General Her Excellency The Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, and she emphasises the importance of sport as the “glue” that binds local communities together. Christine also laments the recent tendency for companies to take public positions on social or political issues as part of corporate branding and, in relation to the economy, she asserts the need to address housing affordability, inequality and access to necessary technology. Lastly, Christine presents her leadership philosophy centred around accountability, opportunity and strategy.
Christine has had an extensive Executive and Board career over the past two decades. Most recently, she was the Chancellor of the University of Wollongong, and she is currently the Chairman of Suncorp Group Ltd, a Director of Cochlear Ltd, and the Chairman and Co-Founder of the Minerva Network. Christine was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia for services to business, the not-for-profit sector and women. She was also Telstra Businesswoman of the Year. Christine was the Private Sector Representative for Australia for the G20 Empowerment and Progression of Women’s Economic Representation.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 5 September 2024.
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In Episode 144 of the No Limitations podcast, A Divided Nation Decides, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Stephen Loosley AM, a former Senator for New South Wales.
In a 2024 United States Presidential election special, Stephen evaluates whether Donald Trump or Kamala Harris is best prepared to lead the free world for the next four years. He delivers a verdict on which candidate will claim the battleground states and asserts that the economy and reproductive rights will be the most important issues. Recognising that the world is at a critical juncture with rapidly escalating conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine as well as rising tensions in the South China Sea, Stephen believes that the decision made at the ballot box in early November will be as important as ever for America, the West, the democratic free world, and the international balance of power.
Stephen was elected as a Senator for New South Wales in the 1990 federal election where he served in the Hawke and Keating governments and chaired the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade. Thereafter, he left parliamentary politics to pursue a career in the law, but he remained a leading commentator on Australian and United States politics in media outlets such as Sky News and The Australian. He is an Ambassador for the University of Technology, Sydney and previously served as a Visiting Fellow at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney and the Chair of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, Canberra. He has also been a Board member of leading organisations such as Crescent Capital Partners, National Rugby League and The Salvation Army.
Please note that the views and opinions expressed by Stephen in this podcast are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of the organisations he is involved with.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 18 October 2024.
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In Episode 143 of the No Limitations podcast The Valley of Death, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Dr Larry Marshall, Non-Executive Director of Fortescue Ltd and Nanosonics Ltd.
In a spirited discussion, Larry scrutinises Australia’s innovation dilemma, where despite the nation’s level of invention and scientific excellence, it is significantly behind in terms of commanding recognition on the global stage. He highlights the potential of capitalising on Australia’s resources to create a market vision to drive further economic growth. Larry also reflects on his time leading CSIRO, where he challenged the norm in the hundred-year-old organisation and delivered its first period of growth in three decades. He shares with us the essentials in catalysing success and the courage required as a leader in the face of failure. Finally, Larry reminds us of the importance of diversity, as different thoughts and perspectives will ultimately drive future innovation in Australia.
Larry Marshall is currently a Non-Executive Director of Fortescue Ltd and Nanosonics Ltd and also serves on the Board of the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, the Council of the Australian National University and the Australian Government’s Circular Economy Ministerial Advisory Group. Larry is also Chair of the American Chamber of Commerce in Australia. He was Chief Executive Officer of CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency from 2015 to 2023. Prior to CSIRO, he spent a considerable amount of time in the United States, where he co-founded and led a number of technology and venture capital companies in biotechnology, telecommunications and semiconductors. He is also the author of “Invention to Innovation: How Scientists Can Drive our Economy,” which was published in 2023.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 27 August 2024.
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In Episode 142 of the No Limitations podcast The Dirty Deal, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Dr Adi Paterson, Founder and Principal of Siyeva Consulting. Adi was formerly Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Australia’s nuclear centre of excellence.
As we head into a critical juncture in Australia’s energy future debate, Adi joins us again to challenge our thinking around the game-changing opportunity for nuclear power in Australia. He highlights the enormous potential for small modular reactors, which can provide reliable energy that can transform regional Australia, lead to the creation of new markets, and accelerate the country’s growth. Adi also provides an assessment of where the nation currently stands in terms of renewables and warns us of the potential implications it may have not only on business and the broader economy, but also for the everyday Australian if we continue down the current trajectory. Finally, Adi stresses the need for leaders and policymakers to act swiftly to meet net-zero targets and address the desperate need for affordable and reliable energy.
Prior to becoming the Chief Executive Officer of ANSTO, Adi served as the General Manager of Business Development and Operations at the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor Company in South Africa. Adi was Group Executive of the Department of Science and Technology within the South African Government and Executive Vice-President at the South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research. Adi has contributed to numerous advisory Boards and committees and is currently a Board Member of HB11 Energy and AdvanCell Isotopes.
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In Episode 141 of the No Limitations podcast No Passengers on Boards, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Jim Askew, Chairman of Syrah Resources Ltd and Robex Resources Inc.
Having held senior leadership roles in public mining companies listed in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, New Zealand and Australia with assets on all major continents, Jim shares his perspective on the state of the ever-changing global mining industry, highlighting the enormous opportunities present in Africa where the development of vital infrastructure has paved the way for growth. He also touches on the critical minerals sector and the emerging trends in the electric vehicle and battery markets. Turning to Australia, Jim brings to the fore the challenges of pursuing further growth in what is becoming an increasingly competitive international market and how to address the disconnect across an array of stakeholders from governments to corporates, to traditional owners and all Australians. Finally, Jim reveals his philosophy on leadership and how he builds teams to ensure companies are on track for sustainable growth and success.
Jim is currently Chairman of graphite and anode material producer Syrah Resources Ltd, West African mine operator Robex Resources Inc. and a private New Zealand-focused mining company. He is also on the Board of the gold and copper producer Evolution Mining Ltd, where he is a Founding Director. Jim has previously served on the Boards of Sino Gold Ltd, Ausdrill Ltd, Golden Shamrock Mines Ltd, OceanaGold Corporation and PMI Gold Corporation. During his executive career, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Climax Mining Ltd, Golden Shamrock Mines Ltd, and Black Range Minerals Ltd. Earlier in his career, he consulted to a wide variety of domestic and international companies through his firm James Askew Associates, which is now known as AMC International Consultants.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 3 July 2024.
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In Episode 140 of the No Limitations podcast Don’t Jump to Conclusions, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Coby Hanoch, Chief Executive Officer of Israel-based semiconductor IP company Weebit Nano Ltd.
In an open discussion, Coby provides an overview of the global infrastructure of the rapidly growing, multi-trillion-dollar semiconductor industry, Weebit Nano’s opportunity as a differentiator as well as insight into leading players in the market including the United States, Taiwan and South Korea. As a company based in Israel, he offers insight into how historical conflict and limited natural resources have shaped the country’s culture of resilience, creativity and entrepreneurship. Coby emphasises the importance of persisting through failure and shares his leadership philosophy to building high-performing teams in particularly challenging times and circumstances. Finally, Coby gives his frank assessment on Australia’s regulatory environment particularly for listed companies and how this presents a potential obstacle to Australia developing into a “high-tech” economy and its ability to invest in technological innovations.
Coby has nearly 45 years in the semiconductor industry and has held roles spanning engineering, sales, and executive leadership. Before Weebit Nano Ltd, Coby served as Chief Executive Officer of optical layer transport solution company PacketLight Networks. Coby also served as Vice President of Worldwide Sales at Verisity Ltd and Jasper Automation. Coby also established EDAcon Partners, a consulting company assisting technology start-up companies.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 19 August 2024.
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In Episode 139 of the No Limitations podcast Last Man Standing, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Col. Douglas Macgregor (ret.), Former Senior Advisor to the Secretary of Defense.
In a captivating discussion, Douglas provides an astute commentary on the state of leadership in the wider world today. He turns to the major flashpoints across the globe, and he assesses the rapidly escalating conflict between Israel and other parties in the Middle East, the Russian war with Ukraine, and the likelihood of an act of aggression by China against its immediate neighbours such as Taiwan in the South China Sea. Returning to the United States, Douglas emphasises the need for cultural unity and the successful assimilation of new waves of immigration into mainstream society. He also touches on the need to act decisively to reduce the burgeoning government debt and the possibility of emerging nations embracing bitcoin to curb the influence of the United States dollar.
Douglas was first commissioned into the United States Army in 1976. During his 28 years of service, he was a leader of the 1st Squadron 4th Cavalry, the 1999 Kosovo Air Campaign, the Battle of 73 Easting during the Gulf War, and the offensive into Baghdad in 2002. By the time of his retirement in 2004, Douglas was a decorated veteran with several awards for meritorious service, including the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal. More recently, Douglas was the Senior Advisor to the Secretary of Defense, a position he held until then-President Trump left office. Douglas has written several books on military operations which have been the catalyst for profound changes in defense strategy in the United States and abroad. Douglas has also appeared as a defense analyst on Fox News, CNN, BBC, Sky News and public radio.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 14 August 2024.
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In Episode 138 of the No Limitations podcast The Reckoning, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Adrian Turner, the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of ExoFlare.
In an absorbing discussion, Adrian asserts that Australia’s leadership needs to create a stronger sense of national purpose and ambition. He emphasises the need to develop new industries while boosting economic output, employment, and productivity, and to maintain our way of life and economic security in the face of massive change and uncertainty. Drawing on his Silicon Valley experience, Adrian implores aspiring entrepreneurs to become product experts, like Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos, who can master complexity with ease. Adrian speaks in detail about the biosecurity mission of ExoFlare and the role it aims to play in the $10 trillion global food industry. Lastly, Adrian encourages the next generation of business and political leaders to cast off the inertia and inaction of the previous decades and to strive for greater achievement, enabled by new technology and tools.
Adrian was a Director of Philips Electronics before co-founding cybersecurity business, Mocana, in Silicon Valley where he served as Chief Executive Officer for eleven years. Thereafter, Adrian returned to Australia as the founding Chief Executive Officer of CSIRO’s Data61 before starting ExoFlare in 2021. Adrian has served on the Boards of SaltGrid, Australian eHealth Research Centre, AustCyber and Prezzee. In the non-profit sector, Adrian was the Chief Executive Officer of Minderoo Fire and Flood and the Chair of the Board for Australia’s Expatriate Network, Advance. He was a member of the World Economic Forum Global Future Council on the Digital Economy.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 1 July 2024.
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In Episode 137 of the No Limitations podcast Flight to Gold, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Olympic Gold Medalist Steve Hooker OAM, Founder and Director of iHi Projects.
In this relaxed discussion, Steve takes us behind the scenes of the Olympic Games, uncovering the magic, myths and mastery behind the sporting spectacle. He reveals what it truly takes to deliver on a world stage, as he describes the “pressure cooker” of Beijing's Bird's Nest and the moment he clinched gold amidst an 80,000-strong crowd. Steve discusses his journey beyond the track, where he has taken significant strides in the corporate arena, bridging the gap between sports and business while championing community building and sustainable impact. Through it all, Steve discusses the importance of “having a crack” and provides his insights on the standout stars to watch in the Paris Olympic Games.
Steve remains one of only a handful of athletes to hold Olympic, World Championship, IAAF World Indoor Championship and IAAF Continental Cup titles simultaneously, after completing the winning set in the pole vault in 2010 and was the first Australian man to hold both the Olympic and World titles concurrently. Since retiring from competitive athletics, Steve has served as Chief Executive of Access Telehealth, Chief Executive Officer of Resimax Group, and Executive Director of the Australian Olympic Committee. Steve is currently a Director of Sport Australia Hall of Fame and Steve Hooker Sports.
Please note: This episode was recorded on 17 June 2024.
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In Episode 136 of the No Limitations podcast In Unexpected Places, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Robert Spurway, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of GrainCorp Ltd.
In an insightful discussion, Robert provides an in-depth assessment of the global agriculture market, which has withstood challenges such as adverse weather conditions, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions. Robert believes that there is cause for optimism as Australia is well placed to serve large markets in Southeast Asia and China, global demand for agriculture is outpacing supply, and Australian policymakers are placing greater importance on national biosecurity. Robert also proposes several initiatives by which GrainCorp Ltd can remain a market leader in the coming decades, including deploying its internal venture capital fund, improving rail networks, utilising data analytics, and adopting precision farming techniques.
Robert started his career as a chemical engineer in the New Zealand dairy industry, before moving to Australia and holding general management roles at Goodman Fielder. A move to private equity-owned Mrs Crocket’s Kitchen resulted in his appointment to Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, a role he also held at Salad Fresh following their acquisition of Mrs Crocket’s. Thereafter, Robert joined New Zealand dairy business, Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd, where he was promoted to Chief Operating Officer, Global Operations. In March 2020, Robert was appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of GrainCorp Ltd.
Robert was the Chairman of Kotahi Logistics LP Ltd, Deputy Chairman of Prolesur S.A., and a Director of DFE Pharma GmbH & Co.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 5 June 2024.
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In Episode 135 of the No Limitations podcast Another Hole in the Ground, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Douglas Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of Coronado Global Resources Inc.
In an enlightening discussion, Douglas offers a thorough analysis of the shifting market dynamics within the coal industry whilst underscoring the pivotal role of metallurgical coal in the global energy transition. Douglas critiques Australia's political inertia, lamenting its impact on the country’s global market positioning despite our abundant resources. He advocates that the nation needs to “shake loose” from its bureaucratic processes, emphasising the need for informed voting and proactive policymaking to leverage our resources effectively.
Douglas redefines mining beyond just “another hole in the ground”, highlighting the vast career opportunities and sense of community that is deeply rooted within the industry. Embracing instability, he outlines how he stays agile as a leader and the importance of lifting one’s head to look over the horizon.
Lastly, Douglas urges listeners not to lose sight of the magic in the moment whilst “challenging the next giant”.
Douglas joined Coronado in August 2021 as the Chief Operating Officer of Australia and was subsequently appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer in May 2023. Prior to joining Coronado, Douglas was employed by CIMIC Group Ltd, where he held the role of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Thiess since 2017. Additionally, in the role of Mining and Mineral Processing Executive, Douglas was responsible for leading CIMIC Group’s operating company Sedgman. Douglas commenced his mining career at Gold Fields Ltd in South Africa, where he held various leadership roles during his tenure.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 12 June 2024
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In Episode 134 of the No Limitations podcast Ripe for Improvement, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Pat O’Sullivan, Chairman of three ASX-listed companies:
- SiteMinder Ltd;
- TechnologyOne Ltd; and
- CAR Group Ltd.
In a captivating discussion, Pat contends that Australia remains the lucky country with abundant prosperity, an irrepressible entrepreneurial spirit, and stable political leadership. He asserts that Australia is ready for a big-picture vision to galvanise the nation and ensure it succeeds in the decades ahead. Pat speaks at length about his executive role at Singtel Optus in a fast changing and intensely competitive environment, where he learned the importance of building an extensive network of close professional contacts. Pat also discusses his tenure at Nine Entertainment, sharing tales about a confronting interview with business and media tycoon, Kerry Packer, working alongside James Packer and Eddie McGuire, and dealing with private equity suitors.
Pat had a distinguished executive career, serving as Chief Financial Officer of Goodman Fielder New Zealand, Chief Financial Officer of Singtel Optus, and Chief Operating Officer and Finance Director of Nine Entertainment and PBL Media. Thereafter, Pat transitioned into a Board career, where he has been a Non-Executive Director of iiNet, Isentia, APN Outdoor, Marley Spoon and Afterpay. Pat was also the Chairman of Lux Group, LocalAgentFinder, and Healthengine, as well as Deputy Chairman of Calvary Health Care. He is currently the Chairman of the non-profit group Dreams2Live4.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 29 May 2024.
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In Episode 133 of the No Limitations podcast Running Towards Fire, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Alexis George, Chief Executive Officer of AMP Ltd.
In a spirited discussion, Alexis reflects on her journey to the corner office of one of Australia's most well-known organisations. Born and raised in regional Australia, Alexis’s career in the competitive world of financial services has seen her traverse the globe, holding senior positions in the UK, Europe and Asia. Shortly after returning to Australian shores, she joined ANZ Bank and, within a few years, was leading its Wealth business before becoming the Deputy Chief Executive Officer.
Not one to shy away from a challenge, Alexis took on the task of leading one of Australia’s foundational companies, AMP, joining during some turbulent times and in the heart of the pandemic. With no one in the office, Alexis set about communicating her message and sharing her vision, mindful of the significant heritage and excited by the enormous possibilities. Establishing the team, she has embarked the business on a journey of transformation, instilling a culture of transparency, accountability, and customer centricity, paving the way for a future of innovation and growth.
Prior to becoming Chief Executive of AMP, Alexis was Group Executive, Wealth Australia before becoming Deputy Chief Executive Officer of ANZ. Alexis also spent ten years at ING Group in a number of senior roles, including Chief Executive Officer Czech Republic and Slovakia and Regional Chief Operating Officer of Asia. Alexis is also a Board Member of AMP Ltd, AMP Bank and the Financial Services Council.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 6 May 2024.
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In Episode 132 of the No Limitations podcast Australian First, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to the Director, Indigenous Forum at the Centre for Independent Studies, Nyunggai Warren Mundine AO.
In an inspiring discussion, Warren describes his start in life as one of eleven children in a poor household in regional New South Wales. His family then relocated to Sydney where he attended the local Catholic school. Despite leaving school early to work as a trolley boy and as a barman, Warren later completed his Higher School Certificate through night school. He then moved to Adelaide to study at the South Australian Institute of Technology, now called the University of South Australia
. A common thread throughout the conversation is Warren’s belief in the importance of education and its unrivalled ability to uplift the disadvantaged, whether Aboriginal or otherwise. Warren asserts that Australia is the greatest nation on earth, free from discrimination and institutionalised racism, and he expresses pride in his dual Aboriginal and Irish lineage.
Warren offers an appraisal of the Voice and the path forward for the nation. He also covers a range of engaging topics including four year federal parliamentary terms, nuclear power, and the defence of Israel. Lastly, Warren explains his disillusionment with the Labor Party and his decision to join the Liberal Party, referring to Robert Menzies’ founding vision of freedom, equality before the law, and prosperity.
Warren started his political career as an independent candidate for the city of Dubbo where he was the first Aboriginal person to serve on the council. He ran as a candidate for the Labor Party in the 1999 New South Wales election and as a candidate for the Senate in the 2001 Federal election. In 2006, Warren became President of the Labor Party and was the first Aboriginal Australian to serve as president of an Australian political party.
Later, Warren joined the Liberal Party and served as the Chairman of Tony Abbott’s and Malcolm Turnbull’s Prime Minister’s Indigenous Advisory Council. Warren is Chair of the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation and the Conservative Political Action Conference. Warren is also on the Boards of several business groups including Aura Energy Ltd, Fuse Minerals Ltd, and JobTrail. Warren frequently appears in the media and has published two books.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 16 April 2024.
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In Episode 131 of the No Limitations podcast Meeting in a Telephone Box, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to the 45th Premier of Tasmania, The Hon Will Hodgman. Will was the member for Franklin between 2002 and 2020 and is currently the Principal of Hodgman Partners.
In a compelling discussion, Will describes his start in life in a family with an illustrious history in Tasmanian politics. Whilst emphasising the major achievements of his government, including budget repair, an improved tourism industry, better education outcomes, and a stronger economy, he also does not shy away from many of the chronic problems facing Tasmania today. Will depicts himself as a proud and passionate Tasmanian and explains his reasons for resigning as Premier after only six years in office. In addition, Will addresses a number of important topics, including the need for indigenous recognition in the Preamble to the Constitution, his thoughts on four year federal parliamentary terms, and his preference for Australia to become a republic.
Will sheds light on his meaningful and rewarding work outside of Parliament as High Commissioner to Singapore and reflects on the “enormous” opportunity for Australia in South East Asia and its common ground with Singapore as an advanced and first-world democracy. Lastly, Will asserts that Tasmania and Australia should seek a more ambitious reform agenda.
Will started his career at Hobart law firm Wallace Wilkinson & Webster, practising in criminal and personal injury law. Will was then a solicitor for the Wiltshire County Council in the United Kingdom where he appeared in the County Court and the High Court. Will returned to Hobart and continued to practise as a solicitor and as a barrister before he entered Tasmanian Parliament in 2002 in the electorate of Franklin alongside his father who was the member for the neighbouring Denison electorate. Will was re-elected in 2006 and was unanimously voted as leader of the Tasmanian Liberal Party. After a hung parliament in 2010 in which the incumbent Labor Government was returned to power, in 2014, and under Will’s leadership, the Liberal Party formed government. Will served as Premier for six years (including another election victory in 2018) before leaving politics. Thereafter, Will was the Australian High Commissioner to Singapore. He now operates Hodgman Partners, his own consultancy, and acts as an adviser to a range of businesses across the asset management, sustainable energy storage, and technology and artificial intelligence industries.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 21 March 2024.
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In Episode 130 of the No Limitations podcast A Witch That Lived Under My Bed, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Dr Adi Paterson, Principal and Founder of Siyeva Consulting. Adi was formerly Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Australia’s nuclear centre of excellence.
In a confronting discussion, Adi recounts his early years in South Africa, amidst the turbulent backdrop of the apartheid era, to becoming a leading figure in nuclear research and innovation. He explores the untapped potential of nuclear technology, while fearlessly addressing misconceptions and advocating for a re-evaluation of Australia's political stance on nuclear power. With a rich blend of scientific expertise and personal anecdotes, he calls for Australians to “wake up” to the grave reality of our energy future and its consequences for our future generations and forgotten Australians. He delves into the complex lifecycle considerations of various energy sources, offering a critical perspective on the true costs of renewable alternatives. Adi challenges us to reconsider our perceptions of nuclear energy, beckoning a dialogue that transcends fear and embraces the transformative potential it holds for a sustainable energy future.
Prior to becoming the Chief Executive Officer of ANSTO, Adi served as the General Manager of Business Development and Operations at the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor Company in South Africa. Adi was Group Executive of the Department of Science and Technology within the South African Government and Executive Vice-President at the South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research. Adi has contributed to numerous advisory Boards and committees and is currently a Board Member of HB11 Energy and AdvanCell Isotopes.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 5 February 2024.
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In Episode 129 of the No Limitations podcast Put It On The Line, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Craig Tiley, Chief Executive Officer of Tennis Australia.
Craig provides an insider’s perspective on the Australian Open and sheds light on the three main groups he and the team are responsible for: over one million patrons in attendance, a global viewership surpassing one billion, and over 800 players from more than 205 countries. Craig explains his new initiatives for the tournament in the next two years and his ambition for the Australian Open to become the best sporting event worldwide with over one billion dollars in revenue. Standing back, Craig explains how he fell in love with tennis in apartheid South Africa and shares with us his view on the “massive logistical exercise” of running the Australian Open as well as some interesting stories and perspectives.
As Chief Executive Officer of Tennis Australia, Craig is also the Tournament Director of the Australian Open. Prior to this, he was the Director of Player Development at Tennis Australia. Earlier, he was Head Coach of the men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois which he led to the longest winning streak in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) history. Craig also served as Captain of the South African Davis Cup Team and was a part of the Professional Tennis Management program at the University of Texas at Tyler while he completed a master’s degree in kinesiology. Earlier in life in South Africa, Craig was a highly ranked amateur tennis player who completed an economics degree at the University of Stellenbosch as well as military service as a Lieutenant in the South African Army. Craig is the Chair of the Coalition of Major Professional and Participation Sports in Australia and is on the Boards of SafetyCulture and arts festival Rising.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 6 December 2023.
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In a special unredacted edition of Episode 115 of the No Limitations podcast The Spy Who Didn’t Come Home, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jack Barsky, a former agent of the KGB, the foreign intelligence and domestic security agency of the Soviet Union.
In a fascinating and revealing discussion, Jack shows us both sides of the Iron Curtain as we delve into the world of espionage. We uncover his story from his beginnings as a high-achieving student recruited by the KGB through the East German Stasi, trained in Moscow and eventually inserted into the United States. We hear of his missions, the near misses that risked blowing his cover and the lead up to his fateful encounter with the FBI.
Originally from East Germany, Jack was recruited by the KGB as a university student and later infiltrated the United States where he spent ten years spying for the Soviet Union. He severed his relationship with the KGB in 1988 and pursued a corporate career in information technology. He was eventually discovered by the FBI. Today, Jack is an American citizen who is taking advantage of one last chance to live a normal life.
In 2017, Jack released a book about his experiences Deep Undercover: My Secret Life and Tangled Allegiances as a KGB Spy in America. He is also the subject of a 12-part podcast series The Agent which was released in 2021.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 14 April 2023.
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Christmas is a time for giving. Please join the Blenheim Partners Christmas Wish in supporting Starlight Children’s Foundation Australia.
Under Louise’s leadership as Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, Starlight has been recognised as one of the most trusted children’s charities in the country, with a mission to brighten the lives of seriously ill children and their families at a time when they need happiness the most. Starlight is embedded in the Australian healthcare system as an essential service, now in every Children’s Hospital in Australia, supporting more than 140 indigenous and remote clinics and communities.
Together, we can make a difference. To make a donation to Starlight Children’s Foundation Australia, please visit www.starlight.org.au
Please note: this episode was recorded on 29 November 2023.
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In Episode 127 of the No Limitations podcast The Dawn of New Thinking, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Dominic Barton BBM, Chair of Rio Tinto and Chair of LeapFrog Investments. He was previously Global Managing Partner of McKinsey & Company.
We are treated to an erudite discussion with Dominic as we delve into the dawn of a new form of capitalism, a re-imagined view of the world going through extraordinary times witnessing the fragmentation of the current international order, the rise of new superpowers, the emergence of new trading blocs, and the greatest re-allocation of capital in human history. As a former Global Managing Partner of McKinsey & Company having met nearly 3,500 Chief Executive Officers over the course of his career, he offers us rare insights into the elements of leadership including the nature of international business, how it intertwines with politics, and the importance of preserving the fabric of goodwill between nations. He shares with us how to have one eye on the telescope and another on the microscope, as Dominic ponders the future and conveys his excitement about many of the new and cutting-edge companies being launched.
From 2019 to 2021, Dominic was the Ambassador of Canada to the People’s Republic of China. He is currently a Senior Advisor and Partner at AI investment firm Radical Ventures, the Chancellor of the University of Waterloo and an Adjunct Professor at Tsinghua University. He was previously Chairman of Teck Resources, Non-Executive Director at the Singtel Group, Non-Executive Director at Investor AB, and an Advisory Board Member of the Olayan Group. Dominic also previously served as Chair of Standard Chartered’s International Advisory Council, Chair of the Canadian Minister of Finance’s Advisory Council on Economic Growth, and Chair of the Seoul International Business Advisory Council. Dominic was a Senior Trustee of the Brookings Institution, a member of the Singapore Economic Development Board’s International Advisory Council and a member of the Boards of Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York City and the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. He has co-authored four books and received eight honorary doctorates. He also studied as a Rhodes Scholar at Brasenose College, Oxford University.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 26 October 2023.
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In Episode 126 of the No Limitations podcast Bears on Bicycles, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Peggy O’Neal AO, Chancellor of RMIT University and former President of the Richmond Football Club.
In a compelling conversation, Peggy discusses her start in life in a small coal mining town in West Virginia and how, after meeting an Australian backpacker in Greece, she relocated with him to Melbourne. Peggy then forged a reputation as one of Australia’s leading superannuation and financial services law experts and, since then, has taken on a range of Board positions. Peggy speaks about her role as President of the Richmond Football Club where they won three premierships in four years under her stewardship. From within the inner sanctum, Peggy sheds light on the euphoria of winning: the culmination of a new strategic agenda, improved financial management and the importance of consistency. She is also credited with strongly suggesting that coach Damien Hardwick complete a leadership course at Harvard where he learned the mantra of “excellence with happiness” that led to ultimate success for the Club. As the Chair of the now cancelled 2026 Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Peggy sheds some light on the behind the scenes challenges. In addition, as Chancellor of RMIT University, she emphasises the importance of both vocational skills and intellectual development in a tertiary degree and closes with her view on the nature of leadership in today’s society.
Peggy started her career in Australia as a solicitor, and later partner, at Herbert Smith Freehills and is currently a consultant to Lander & Rogers, having specialised in superannuation and financial services law for over 25 years. She is the Chancellor of RMIT University, the Chair of Vanguard Superannuation and a Board Member of Women’s Housing Ltd and Home for Homes (an initiative of The Big Issue). Peggy has also served on the Boards of MLC Super Ltd and the Commonwealth Superannuation Fund. She has been Chair of the Law Council of Australia’s Superannuation Committee and was a consultant to the federal government’s review of the superannuation system in 2010. In sport, Peggy is the immediate past President of the Richmond Football Club, having served on the Board since 2005. She was also Chair of the Victorian Minister for Sport’s Inquiry into ‘Women and Girls in Sport and Active Recreation’ and was appointed to the Australian Institute of Sport Athlete Wellbeing and Engagement Advisory Committee, as well as serving on the AFL’s Mental Health Steering Committee. She was on the Victorian Ministerial Council on Women’s Equality for three years and was the inaugural Co-Chair of the Victorian chapter of the Minerva Network. Peggy is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and is a member of Chief Executive Women and the Melbourne Forum. In 2019, Peggy was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for her services to Australian rules football, financial services law and women in leadership. Peggy was awarded Melburnian of the Year in 2021, received VicSport's award for "Outstanding Contribution to Sport" in 2022, and will be inducted as an AFL Life Member for her services to Australian Rules Football in 2024.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 25th September 2023.
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In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast The Man in the Arena, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Philip Kearns AM, Chief Executive Officer of AVJennings Ltd. Phil is a former Captain of the Australian Wallabies and was part of Australia’s successful campaigns that secured the Webb Ellis Cup in 1991 and 1999. He was recently appointed as a Director of the Board of the Local Operating Company for the next Rugby World Cup to be held in Australia.
We are taken on a journey through the lens of an elite athlete and Chief Executive Officer as we examine the principles of leadership and the art of winning. We commence with the magic of the World Cup, the behind-the-scenes preparation, sacrifice, motivation and important rituals of the event. From the pitch to the Boardroom, we consider the foundations for success, the essence of confidence and the need to make every minute count. We also learn of the Balmoral Burn’s good karma and a certain special twenty cent coin.
Phil represented Australia in rugby union, having played 67 Tests after his debut in 1989. He was appointed Captain in 1992, leading Australia in 10 Tests and also played in the Rest of the World side against the All Blacks for the New Zealand Rugby Centenary celebrations. Prior to his current role, he was Managing Director of InterRisk Australia and Chief Executive Officer of Centric Wealth following an earlier career with Investec. Phil served on the Board of the Childhood Cancer Institute Australia, has been deeply involved with the Dumpty Dumpty Foundation and is the Founder of the Balmoral Burn event.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 19 September 2023.
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In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast Can’t Argue With The Truth, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, Senator for the Northern Territory in the Parliament of Australia.
In a special edition, Jacinta presents her perspective on the upcoming Voice referendum. She discusses the major issues at length, including the Uluru Statement from the Heart, representative democracy, equality before the law, overcoming disadvantage and improving living standards for Indigenous people as a whole. Jacinta asserts that, despite the at times divisive referendum debate, Australia remains one of the best nations on earth with rich diversity, boundless opportunity, a belief in mateship and a "fair go" for all. Jacinta also sheds light on the ways in which the real and chronic social problems affecting marginalised Indigenous groups can be addressed and the means by which we can "close the gap". For Jacinta, the path to a better future for all Australians lies in ending separatism, self-empowerment and embracing our one national identity.
Jacinta was elected as a Councillor on the Alice Springs Council, serving from 2015 to 2021, and was Deputy Mayor in her last year. After running a strong but unsuccessful campaign for the federal seat of Lingiari, Jacinta ultimately won pre-selection for the Country Liberal Party’s number one Senate ticket and was successfully elected to the federal Senate in May 2022. Aside from political office, Jacinta has been a political commentator and a Director for Indigenous Research at the Centre for Independent Studies. After high school, Jacinta was also a singer and songwriter in hip hop groups and featured as an actress in children’s television programs.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 5 October 2023.
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In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast Four Pillars of Humanity, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Stuart Gregor, Co-Founder of Four Pillars Gin.
In a captivating conversation, Stu takes us behind the scenes of the creation of Australia’s largest craft distillery, Four Pillars Gin and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives it. He discusses his journey, from his early days as a journalist to his experience in the wine industry and the founding of Liquid Ideas. Stu also provides insight into the art and science of creative and impactful marketing, innovation, and the customer experience. He leaves us with a valuable perspective on how we can distinguish ourselves in a highly competitive landscape in a world that has never been more connected.
Stuart Gregor is the Co-Founder of Four Pillars Gin, an award-winning Australian gin brand and distillery. He is also the Founder of Liquid Ideas, a creative communications agency that partners with well-known brands in the food, drink, and lifestyle industries. Stu has served on the Boards of OzHarvest and Starlight Foundation, and was previously the Inaugural Board Chair for the Australian Public Relations Council, as well as the President and Chair for the Australian Distillers Association.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 28 August 2023.
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In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast The Middle-Class Artist, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jaddan Comerford, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of UNIFIED Music Group.
In a relaxed discussion, we learn of Jaddan's pioneering and entrepreneurial journey into the rough and tumble of the music world. Starting out at the age of 17 as a one-man band in his parent's home, pursuing a dream, he learned on the fly, broke with tradition, and successfully reshaped the industry and the way we think about the business of music. In so doing, he has captured the imagination and support of emerging music talent and future greats, providing them with the platform and support to unlock and unleash their potential on the local and world stage. Jaddan lifts up the stage curtain, sharing with us the early days, the experimentations, the wins and the major breakthroughs. We uncover what lies ahead, the power of social media and new technologies, as we leave the dark days of COVID-19 behind and embrace the renaissance in music and all its creativity.
Jaddan founded UNIFIED Music Group, an independent multi-service music company in 2011 and has attracted prominent artists such as Vance Joy, Dashboard Confessional, and Ocean Alley. This followed his debut in the industry, with the launch of Boomtown Records in 2002. Alongside UNIFIED, he's a Co-Founder and Start-up Investor at Side Stage Ventures, a venture capital fund, focused on building the ecosystem and supporting innovative companies, such as Heaps Normal, Vitruvian, Mr Yum, and Tixel.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 3 July 2023.
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In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast A Rising Tide Floats All Boats, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Paul Scurrah, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Pacific National.
In a highly engaging discussion, Paul, having worked at the pinnacle of logistics in Australia across all of rail, air and ports, shares his unique vision for the future of freight transport in Australia. Paul emphasises the need for a big-picture perspective as well as the importance of supply chain as an engine room for growth. Paul provides some salutary lessons from his time at the helm of Virgin Australia including its storied rivalry with Qantas and some advice for current airline management at a time when results and key decisions are much publicised, scrutinised and criticised. Paul sheds light on best practice for managing crises, having led through the darkest days of Covid as well as, earlier in his career, having overseen Queensland Rail when most of its rail network was submerged by unprecedented floods. Paul discusses the substantial opportunities on offer for Australia in rail freight and touches on a range of interesting topics including high-speed rail networks, the appropriate place for ESG in commercial decision-making and the need for an apolitical and bipartisan future for rail and the broader transport sector. Lastly, Paul describes the touchstone values which have sustained him through the difficulties and successes in the upper echelons of corporate Australia, as well as his personal journey that took place away from the Boardroom.
Paul was appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Pacific National in 2021. His executive career began as Managing Director – Wholesale and Group Executive Director at The AOT Group and then as Chief Executive Officer at TravelOnline.com. Thereafter Paul held significant roles as Chief Executive Officer of Queensland Rail and as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DP World Australia. More prominently, Paul served as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Virgin Australia. Paul has served on a number of Boards, notably Australia Post, Gold Coast Suns Football Club and RPM Global.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 26 June 2023.
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In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast No Set Rules, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Jack Gance, Chairman and Co-Founder of Chemist Warehouse. Jack's journey began in 1972 alongside his brother Sam, as they embarked on a voyage that would eventually shape the landscape of retail pharmaceuticals.
Jack takes us on a personal journey as he shares how his upbringing, marked by resilience and a dedication to education, laid the groundwork for his visionary leadership in the retail pharmaceutical realm. Jack's contributions have not only propelled market presence and share but have also made essential prescriptions and medications accessible to a wider audience. Jack also offers valuable insights into Chemist Warehouse's strategic international expansion plans, highlighting the company's steadfast dedication to both growth and innovation. Moreover, Jack offers insights into the profound importance of leveraging your strategic advantage in any domain throughout your career journey. His wisdom is not just inspiring but practical, providing valuable takeaways for professionals and aspiring leaders alike.
Jack and his brother Sam founded Chemist Warehouse in 1972. They initially imported and distributed sunglasses and later expanded to include sunscreens, fragrances, and cosmetics from popular brands like Le Specs, Le Tan, Australis, and Colours of Australia. In 1993, they, along with business partner Mario Verrocchi, launched 35 stores under the My Chemist brand. Their significant milestone came in 2000 with the opening of the first Chemist Warehouse store in Melbourne. Today, the company has over 500 stores across Australia, New Zealand, China, and Ireland, and future global expansion plans.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 19 June 2023
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In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast Sitting Under the Mango Tree, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jeff Quartermaine, Chief Executive and Managing Director of Perseus Mining Ltd, one of the largest gold mining companies listed in Australia with major mine sites in Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire and Sudan.
In an insightful discussion, Jeff opens with his views on the appeal of mining as a career today. He touches on the challenges of managing operations in Africa, such as political risks and civil unrest, as well as making deals with local chiefs under the mango tree. Jeff emphasises the importance of maintaining a social licence to operate and doing good by local communities and other stakeholders. Jeff shares his thoughts on nations, such as Russia, China and the United States, jostling for influence in the region. Jeff also explains his core leadership philosophy, his major achievements at Perseus Mining and the values he looks for in hiring personnel. Growing up in Far North Queensland, Jeff discusses the start to his career as an engineer and his rise through the ranks in the mining industry in Australia. Jeff also speaks about a number of other topics including, but not limited to, surviving Covid, the virtues of nuclear energy in Australia, and value he gained from his MBA.
Jeff was appointed Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Perseus Mining Ltd in 2013, having previously served as Chief Financial Officer. Early in his career, realising an affinity for the mining industry, Jeff became General Manager at Niugini Mining with operations in Papua New Guinea. After a short tenure in corporate finance, Jeff then moved into his first executive role as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer at Orogen Minerals Ltd. He was also Chief Financial Officer at MediVac Ltd. More recently, and prior to Perseus Mining, Jeff held further senior roles in the mining industry, including as Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary at Lafayette Mining Ltd and at TriAusmin Ltd respectively.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 3 May 2023.
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In Episode 118 of the No Limitations podcast Hardest Opportunity on Offer, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Kate Munnings, Group Chief Executive Officer of Virtus Health Pty Ltd, a global leader in assisted reproductive services.
In a moving conversation, Kate reveals the eye-opening statistic that, in today’s society, one in six couples experience fertility issues. She reflects on her early days as a nurse during the HIV and AIDS epidemic, and how this experience played a pivotal role in shaping her professional path, ultimately leading her to transition into an established law career, followed by senior operations and executive roles at Transfield Services (now Ventia).
In this capacity, Kate provides a fascinating insider’s perspective into the world of detention centres and the plight of refugees. She also discusses her experiences at Ramsay Health Care Australia, shedding light on the challenges associated with introducing changes in the healthcare system.
Moreover, she reflects on assuming her inaugural Chief Executive Officer position, amidst the unprecedented times of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout her career, Kate learned that a title nor a position are necessary to be a leader, and that the essence of great leadership comprises camaraderie, courage and compassion.
Kate was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Virtus Health Pty Ltd in 2020. Prior to this, she was Chief Operating Officer of Ramsay Health Care Australia and earlier was Chief Risk and Legal Officer followed by Chief Executive – Operations at Transfield Services.
Kate started her career as a HIV/AIDS nurse at St Vincent’s Hospital before becoming a construction lawyer and Partner at law firms Corrs Chambers Westgarth and Baker McKenzie. Alongside Virtus, Kate is currently Chair of Digital Health Cooperative Research Centres. Kate has also served as a Board Member of South East Sydney Local Health District.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 16 May 2023.
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In Episode 117 of the No Limitations podcast Knowing Your Own Mind, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to the 28th Prime Minister of Australia, The Hon Tony Abbott AC. He was the Member for Warringah in the Australian Parliament from 1994 to 2019.
In an open conversation, we unpack Tony’s thoughts on the current state of Australia, its leadership and standing on the world stage. Considering where he sees society heading from the debate in Australia leading up to the referendum and the cost-of-living crisis to the ongoing conflicts overseas and shifts in the power balance, we discuss his concerns for the country and the world at large. Finally, we uncover his thoughts on leadership and how it starts with one’s self.
Tony served as Prime Minister for two years following the 2013 Australian federal election. He was the Leader of the Opposition from 2009 to 2013 and also served as a Cabinet Minister during the Howard Government. Currently, Tony is a Director of the Ramsay Centre for Western Civilisation, serves on the council of the Australian War Memorial, and is an adviser to the UK Board of Trade. He is a patron to several charities, including Soldier On, the International Sports Promotion Society, and the Worldwide Support for Development. In 2020, he was appointed as a Companion of the Order of Australia and in 2022, he was conveyed with the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 15 May 2023.
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In Episode 116 of the No Limitations podcast Leadership Is a Gift, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Alan Beacham, Managing Director of Toll Group, one the largest logistics, transportation and warehousing businesses worldwide. Toll Group was established in Newcastle, Australia in 1888, now has headquarters in Singapore and is expanding throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
In an insightful discussion, Alan presents his views on the current geopolitical landscape, especially between China and the United States, and how Toll can best position itself to succeed for another 134 years. He also shares his perspective on cutting-edge innovation in his industry, such as hydrogen trucks, drones in logistics, artificial intelligence and supply chain developments. Finally, Alan reflects on the nature of leadership and cites the importance of inclusion, kindness and responsibility.
Alan was appointed Managing Director of Toll Group last year, having previously overseen Global Forwarding, Global Express and Express Parcels respectively. Earlier,
Alan had an extended tenure at transportation manufacturing firm UGL in Executive General Manager roles. He started his career as an engineer at Rolls-Royce before moving to Mercedes-Ilmor where they developed engines for the West McLaren Mercedes Formula One team. Alan now sits on the Board of charity Healthy Heads in Trucks and Sheds, which represents the wellbeing of those in his industry. Alan has also served on the Boards of Metro Trains Melbourne, UGL Unipart, and Naval Ship Management Pty Ltd.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 20 April 2023.
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In Episode 115 of the No Limitations podcast The Spy Who Didn’t Come Home, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jack Barksy, a former agent of the KGB, the foreign intelligence and domestic security agency of the Soviet Union.
In a fascinating and revealing discussion, Jack shows us both sides of the Iron Curtain as we delve into the world of espionage. We uncover his story from his beginnings as a high-achieving student recruited by the KGB through the East German Stasi, trained in Moscow and eventually inserted into the United States. We hear of his missions, the near misses that risked blowing his cover and the lead up to his fateful encounter with the FBI.
Originally from East Germany, Jack was recruited by the KGB as a university student and later infiltrated the United States where he spent ten years spying for the Soviet Union. He severed his relationship with the KGB in 1988 and pursued a corporate career in information technology. He was eventually discovered by the FBI. Today, Jack is an American citizen who is taking advantage of one last chance to live a normal life.
In 2017, Jack released a book about his experiences Deep Undercover: My Secret Life and Tangled Allegiances as a KGB Spy in America. He is also the subject of a 12-part podcast series The Agent which was released in 2021.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 14 April 2023.
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In Episode 114 of the No Limitations podcast The Divine Discontent, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with David Kirk MBE, Co-Founder and Chairman of Bailador Technology Investments and a former Captain of the New Zealand All Blacks. David led the All Blacks to victory in the first Rugby World Cup in 1987.
Having gone through a unique journey that has seen him study medicine, lead his country to a world championship, abruptly retire and take up a Rhodes Scholarship, David talks to us about leadership in its varied manifestations as well as the zeal in seeking perfection. Drawing on a wealth of knowledge and experience across sport, politics and business in a multitude of industries, David examines the state of affairs and offers valuable insight into the pertinent matters facing society today.
David represented New Zealand in rugby union, having played 17 Tests and served as the side’s Captain on 11 occasions. He is also currently Chairman of Forsyth Barr and KMD Brands as well as not-for-profits KiwiHarvest, the New Zealand Food Network and the Sydney Festival. He is also President of the New Zealand Rugby Players Association. He previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Fairfax Media and PMP Ltd as well as Chief Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister of New Zealand.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 15 March 2023.
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In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast For the Butcher, the Baker, the Candlestick Maker, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Joseph Healy, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Judo Bank, Australia’s only challenger bank purpose-built for small and medium businesses.
Driven by an unwavering resolve to challenge long-established norms, Joseph takes us across Judo Bank’s fascinating journey, from the 87 meetings around the world four times over to an eleventh-hour surprise that threatened to get the bank up and running. He shares with us Judo Bank’s unique approach to banking for small and medium-sized enterprises, the backbone of the Australian economy, and the importance of culture in building and scaling a challenger bank.
Joseph is a career international banker, having held executive positions at NAB, ANZ, CIBC World Markets, Citibank and Lloyds Bank prior to co-founding Judo Bank in 2016. He was previously Group Executive, Business Banking at NAB and before that was Managing Director, Global Client Relationships at ANZ. Joseph is a Director of the Australian Finance Industry Association and previously served on the Board of Football Federation Australia. He has authored four books, including a recent publication ‘Black Belt – A masterclass for start-ups and entrepreneurs.’
Please note: this episode was recorded on 27 March 2023.
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In Episode 112 of the No Limitations podcast Innovation: A Necessity, Not an Option, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Ian Bailey, Managing Director of Kmart Group. Kmart Group is comprised of Kmart and Target, with over 450 stores across Australia and New Zealand, employing nearly 50,000 team members with annual revenues of close to 10 billion dollars.
Leading one of the most well-known and trusted brands in Australia and New Zealand, Ian takes us through the evolution of Kmart from a traditional discount store to embracing an innovative, modern, hybrid retail model. He shares with us the care and attention it takes to put the customer at the forefront of their mission to accelerate growth and remove all unnecessary costs. Finally, Ian touches on the next retail revolution in today’s digital world as well as potential growth possibilities in international markets.
Prior to his appointment in 2018, Ian held various roles at Kmart Australia including Managing Director, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 3 March 2023.
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In Episode 111 of the No Limitations Podcast Rolling the Dice, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Matt Allen, Co-Founder and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Tractor Ventures, a non-bank lender focused on technology startups.
In a lively discussion, Matt shares with us the unique proposition of Tractor Ventures. Unfazed by the appeal of launching rockets, Matt and the team at Tractor Ventures focus on consistency, reliability and giving founders the optionality to scale. He touches on the excitement that comes with the unknown when it comes to investing in game-changing technologies as well as the evolving role of founders in the startup ecosystem. Finally, Matt and Greg discuss the challenges and opportunities for startups in the current environment and what can be done to help build Australia's standing in the global technology landscape.
Prior to founding Tractor Ventures in 2020, Matt was part of the venture capital and startup team at Amazon Web Services and previously held Chief Technology Officer roles. He is also Chairman of AI-driven experience platform Qsic, Co-Founder of Side Stage Ventures and a member of the investment committee of the Alice Anderson Fund, co-investment fund developed by the Victorian government to invest into women-lead startups.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 14 February 2023.
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In Episode 110 of the No Limitations Podcast Ants and Elephants, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Cameron McIntyre, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of carsales.com Ltd. carsales is an ASX 100 business and global leader in digital marketplaces across Australia, Asia and The Americas, with over 1,700 team members.
With a vision to create #1 digital marketplaces for vehicles around the world, Cameron shares how carsales are taking the lead to remain at the forefront of the industry, going from a founder-led startup to a global business, while continuing to evolve with the digital economy to make buying and selling a great experience for their customers. He touches on how carsales is utilising new technologies to further enhance the customer experience, the new markets for electric vehicles and connected cars, and how they’re helping develop an ecosystem for a future-facing workforce.
Prior to his appointment in 2017, Cameron held various positions at carsales, including Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary. He was also previously Finance Director of directories and classified advertising business Sensis. Cameron serves as a Non-Executive Director of Inclusive Australia.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 19 January 2023.
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In Episode 109 of the No Limitations podcast The Fear of Going Into the Unknown, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Deanne Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of Aware Super, one of Australia’s leading superannuation funds with over 1.2 million members and $155bn in funds under management.
Driven by the aim to help their members achieve the retirement they want and deserve while supporting the communities in which they live, work and retire, Deanne shares with us what’s on the mind of an industry fund leader in 2023. Greg and Deanne discuss the challenges and opportunities in Australia’s unique system, adapting to the ever-changing social landscape and some of the most exciting technological changes Australia’s superannuation industry is about to witness.
Deanne also serves as a Director of the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia, the Australian Council of Superannuation Investors and non-profit organisation Redkite. She was previously Chief Executive Officer of MetLife Australia and before that held senior roles within BT Financial Group and Merrill Lynch Investment Management in New York.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 7 February 2023.
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In Episode 108 of the No Limitations podcast The Forces of Nature, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Michael Batko, Chief Executive Officer of Startmate.
In today’s discussion, Michael welcomes us to the epicentre for startup ambition across Australia and New Zealand, where they work closely with founders, mentors, angel investors and venture funds. He shares with us the common denominator in the successful startups they’ve supported and the overwhelming power of the community pervading through this unique ecosystem. He also touches on the challenges facing founders and why it takes a force of nature to change the game.
Startmate have invested in over 190 startups with a collective portfolio value of $2bn. Prior to his current role, Michael was Head of Operations of Startmate and before that was involved in a number of startups, such as Expert360 and Mad Paws.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 1 February 2023.
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In Episode 107 of the No Limitations podcast “Across the Waves,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Grant Blackley, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Southern Cross Media Group Ltd, which owns over 99 stations across FM, AM and DAB+ radio under the Triple M and Hit network brands, broadcasts 93 free-to-air TV signals across regional Australia, and operates LiSTNR, Australia’s free audio destination for consumers housing radio, podcasts, music and news.
Against the backdrop of an ever-changing media landscape, Grant shares with us his mantra of innovation and the willingness to take risk in an unforgiving market to those who stand still. We get a glimpse into the future of audio and broader media – the challenges and opportunities locally and internationally. Finally, he opens our ears and lets us into the “House of LiSTNR” as they change the way consumers engage with a variety of digital audio content, tailored for an audience of one.
With over 35 years in the media and entertainment sectors, Grant has served in numerous senior leadership positions, including at Network 10 as CEO from 2005 to 2010. Grant is also a Director of Commercial Radio & Audio as well as the Australian Association of National Advertisers.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 30 November 2022.
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In Episode 106 of the No Limitations podcast “To Dare and Endure”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Brian Hartzer, Chairman and Co-Founder of specialty lender 2Be and former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Westpac Banking Corporation.
In a candid and insightful conversation, Brian shares with us the five Cs of building engagement as a leader and some personal insights into the pressure moments and testing times for decision makers. Greg and Brian also discuss the Australian banking sector, the broader economic landscape and the opportunities ahead.
Brian is also Chairman of ASX-listed salary advance business Beforepay, AI-based HR technology startup Reejig, and the Australian Museum Foundation. He has previously served as Chairman of Save the Children Australia, Director of the Financial Markets Foundation for Children, and Chair of the Business Advisory Committee of the Australian National University. Brian was Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Westpac Banking Corporation from 2015 to 2019 and prior to that spent 15 years in senior executive roles at major banks in Australia and the UK.
His book, “The Leadership Star: A Practical Guide to Building Engagement”, was published in 2021.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 18 November 2022.
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In Episode 105 of the No Limitations podcast “Leadership Is a Contact Sport”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Michael Schneider, Managing Director of Bunnings Group Ltd, the leading retailer of home improvement and lifestyle products in Australia and New Zealand as well as a major supplier to project builders, commercial tradespeople and the housing industry.
In this episode, Michael underscores the heart and soul of a business – the magic of the team. Leading over 53,000 team members with a network of over 500 locations, Michael shares with us how he continues to preserve and enhance the unique Bunnings culture, which not only plays such a vital role in the organisation’s success but also in supporting the communities in which it operates. He also shares with us what’s in store for retail as we witness the continued evolution of the industry as well as the next normal for Australia’s workforce.
Prior to joining Bunnings in 2005, Michael had a diverse career across retail and financial services, holding senior roles in operations, human resources and strategy at organisations such as The Warehouse Group, Westpac Banking Corporation and Target. Michael is also Chair of independent motor neurone disease foundation FightMND and not-for-profit organisation Love Me Love You. He also serves on the Boards of Melbourne United Basketball Club, the Corporate Mental Health Alliance of Australia and the Global Home Improvement Network.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 12 October 2022.
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In Episode 104 of the No Limitations podcast “Taking Flight”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Rachael Neumann and Kylie Frazer, Founding Partners of early-stage venture capital firm Flying Fox Ventures.
Challenging the traditional venture capital model to help more people take their first steps into angel investing, Rachael and Kylie share with us the intricacies of how it takes a village to raise a startup. We also hear about the challenges facing founders and other players in the ecosystems and how they see potential in the many entrepreneurs they work closely with.
Rachael and Kylie have been across many parts of the startup ecosystem leading to the establishment of Flying Fox Ventures. Rachael was previously Head of Startups for Amazon Web Services in Australia and New Zealand and was Managing Director of Eventbrite in Australia and New Zealand. She is also on the Council of Trustees of the National Gallery of Victoria. Kylie brings over 20 years of experience as a corporate transactions lawyer, having worked for Corrs Chambers Westgarth and Urchin Legal and Ventures, having advised ASX200 and international companies on landmark deals across sectors including technology, agriculture, and consumer products.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 7 October 2022.
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In Episode 103 of the No Limitations podcast “A Period of Great Change”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Scott Wyatt, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of leading energy company Viva Energy Group Ltd, which supplies about a quarter of Australia’s fuel requirements.
With change occurring on a multitude of fronts, Scott and Viva Energy are uniquely positioned, catering to Australia’s energy needs now and well into the future. Scott shares with us not only Viva Energy’s rich 120-year history but also how they are positioning themselves for the new environment, as we embark on a monumental transition that will change the way we live. Having led Viva Energy in the last eight years as well as teams across the world, he casts a light on the pivotal role leadership plays in navigating uncertainty, inspiring new ideas and setting a clear direction.
Following a long career with Shell in New Zealand, Australia and Singapore, Scott was appointed CEO of Viva Energy Australia in 2014. He is a Director of the Australian Institute of Petroleum and previously served on the Board of Viva Energy REIT.
Please note: this episode was recorded in June 2022.
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In Episode 102 of the No Limitations podcast “Don’t Look at the Scoreboard”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Nick Farr-Jones AM, Director of Taurus Funds Management and a former Captain of the Australia National Rugby Union Team. Nick led the Wallabies to Australia’s first Rugby World Cup title in 1991.
In an illuminating and at times very personal conversation, we are treated to some rare insight into the crucial moments on and off the field that led to the Wallabies’ success in their 1991 Rugby World Cup campaign. Nick shares with us the core principles of leadership and the elements at play, from disappointment to the path forward, from the preparation and discipline to the essence of teamwork, and from the pressure on the big stage to the confidence and calmness in achieving victory.
Nick represented Australia in rugby union, having played 63 Tests after his debut in 1984. He was later appointed Captain in 1988 and led Australia in 36 Tests. Prior to his current role, he worked at French investment bank Société Générale in Paris before leading their mining finance team in Sydney. He is also Chairman of Stand Tall, a charity that supports the mental well-being of Australian youth. He previously served on the Boards of NRMA and Wesley Mission, was a Councillor of the City of Sydney, a Senator of the University of Sydney and was previously Chairman of New South Wales Rugby Union.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 6 September 2022.
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In Episode 101 of the No Limitations podcast, “Leadership: A Choice and a Privilege”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Sarah Hunter, Managing Director of Officeworks, an every-channel retailer supporting Australians to work, learn, create and connect. It has 167 stores, a website home to 40,000 products and over 9,000 team members.
In a spirited discussion, Sarah brings to life the importance of leadership, sharing personal experiences across Australia and the United Kingdom, having to adapt and thrive in different industries from professional services, sport, banking, airports and the fast-paced arena of retail. She touches on the attitude to not only achieve but to also unlock potential as a leader. Finally, Sarah reminds us of the significance of not losing sight of one’s purpose, priorities and what really matters.
Prior to joining Officeworks in 2019, Sarah was the Demerger Program Director at Coles, overseeing the successful implementation of the demerger of the business from Wesfarmers in 2018. She also held various general management positions at Coles and worked in the United Kingdom for more than ten years across banking and airports, having held senior commercial roles at Gatwick Airport and the British Airports Authority.
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In the 100th episode of the No Limitations podcast “Stepping In and Stepping Up”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Cathy O’Connor, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of oOh!media Ltd.
In an enthralling conversation on the essence of contemporary leadership, Cathy shares with us her story from her early days in radio to being at the helm of and transforming Nova Entertainment into a multi-platform business. Now as the leader of a pioneering media company with a purpose to make public spaces better, we gain insight into the synthesis of a collective contribution, the meaning of “one size fits none,” and how oOh!media are playing an integral role in communities in informing, entertaining and inspiring citizens from all walks of life.
Prior to oOh!media, Cathy was Chief Executive Officer of leading audio company Nova Entertainment for twelve years. She also held management roles at Austereo after starting her career in advertising sales at radio stations 2SM and 2GB. Cathy is also a Governor for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance and Director of the Outdoor Media Association and the Sony Foundation.
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In the Episode 99 of the No Limitations podcast “Character Is Everything”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Jim Penman, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Jim’s Group, Australia’s largest franchising family with over 4,800 franchisees across over 52 divisions.
In a forthright and revealing conversation, Jim shares with us his remarkable story of entrepreneurship and fanatical drive in never accepting the status quo with focus on continuous improvement and raising the bar across all facets of life – accountability for oneself, the need for greater community engagement and the advancement of society. He discusses his personal ambitions, the best advice he received for business, the state of the economy and puts forward some candid observations regarding political leadership, digital currencies and what we could be looking forward to in the future, particularly the way we live and how long.
Jim initially launched a full-time mowing business in 1982. In 1989, he franchised his business, and since then Jim’s Group has become the largest franchise chain in Australia, which includes well-known lawn mowing business Jim’s Mowing. As a student of history, he is also an author and social theorist who explores the physiological underpinnings of social change and its probable effects on civilisations. His books include ‘Biohistory’, ‘Epigenetics and Character’, and ‘Every Customer a Fan’.
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In Episode 98 of the No Limitations podcast “Best Effort, Right Attitude”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Anthony Boyd, Chief Executive Officer of Frasers Property Australia, one of Australia’s leading diversified property groups.Anthony shares with us the highlights and learnings from a career that has seen him start as a young man balancing work and rugby to now at the helm of a leading property group with a rich heritage going back almost a hundred years. We hear of the way forward and how they continue to set the standard for outcomes for innovation, the community and sustainability. Finally, Anthony gives us insight into high performance and leadership: the human connection, inspiring passion in others and the mindset to achieve.Anthony initially joined Frasers Property Australia in 2005; he progressed through senior leadership roles and was Chief Financial Officer prior to his appointment as CEO. He also represents Frasers Property on the Property Council of Australia’s Corporate Leaders Group and the Champions of Change Coalition.
In Episode 97 of the No Limitations podcast, “Making Every Day Count,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Tim Ford, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Treasury Wine Estates Ltd, a world leader in wine with a remarkable global footprint.In a lively conversation, Tim offers a unique perspective into the world of wines: from the ones at the centre of some of life’s most important celebrations to the humble drop we savour at the end of a long day. We learn of the remarkable advancements in cultivation and some of the differences across cultures, as they cater to the many palates throughout the world. Finally, Tim shares insight into navigating the nuances of geopolitics and overcoming adversity, which has allowed Treasury Wine Estates to continue its evolution as a global leader in its industry.Prior to his appointment, Tim held various positions including Chief Operating Officer, Managing Director Europe, South East Asia, Middle East and Africa, and Director, Global Supply for Treasury Wine Estates. He also previously had senior management roles with National Foods and Carlton & United Breweries.
In Episode 96 of the No Limitations podcast, “Taking the Opportunity,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Zlatko Todorcevski, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Boral.Against a backdrop of a jet-setting career that has seen Zlatko in the bustling metropolises of the world to remote regions many of us have only read about, we are treated to fascinating stories about navigating different cultures, the impact of leadership in a global context and being prepared to take on opportunities. We also glean into Zlatko’s aspirations for Boral, having been at the helm the past two years and overcoming the obstacles of an ever-changing competitive landscape. He highlights its massive potential and the way forward.Zlatko was previously Chair of Adbri Ltd, served on the Boards of Coles Ltd, The Star Entertainment Group Ltd and Konvoy Kegs as well as the University Council of the University of Wollongong. He was also formerly Chief Financial Officer of Brambles Ltd, Oil Search Ltd and then BHP Billiton Group’s Petroleum Division.Please note: this episode was recorded on 1 June 2022.
In Episode 95 of the No Limitations podcast, “Finding a Way Through,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Elizabeth Ann Macgregor AM OBE, former Director of the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Australia’s leading museum dedicated to exhibiting, collecting and interpreting contemporary art from across Australia and around the world.With a career that began on the road driving a travelling gallery around Scotland, Elizabeth gives us a glimpse into her remarkable journey that brought her to Australia to lead the metamorphic revitalisation of the MCA. From breaking down barriers to art and engaging with broader audiences to establishing the National Centre for Creative Learning and driving a major focus on artists as educators, she shares with us the challenges they had to overcome to allow her to develop MCA into the vibrant organisation The Art Newspaper has declared the most visited contemporary art museum in the world before the global pandemic.Elizabeth is also on the Board of the Sydney Swans Foundation and was previously President of the International Committee for Museums and Collections of Modern Art, Chair of the Federal Government’s Creative Economy Task Force, and a Director of UNICEF Australia. Prior to her 22-year directorship of MCA Australia, she was the Director of the Ikon Gallery in Birmingham, one of the major contemporary art galleries in the United Kingdom.
In episode 94 of the No Limitations podcast, “Shooting the Breeze,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson once again speaks to Mick McCormack, Chairman of Central Petroleum Ltd and Non-Executive Director of Origin Energy Ltd, Austal Ltd and the Clontarf Foundation.Mick offers his frank assessment on the current state of affairs in Australia; its leadership, the contentious debate on energy, matters surrounding the ageing population and support for Indigenous communities. He also encourages us to take a closer look at the values we promote as a society, especially in the midst of a time when accountability – or lack of – is impacting the lives of many. Finally, Mick reflects on the change of pace and environment, having made the transition to the Boardroom following his Executive career.Mick was formerly Chief Executive Officer of ASX top 50 energy infrastructure company APA Group. During his 14-year tenure, APA Group grew from 30 employees with assets worth $1.3bn to 3,000 employees, assets worth $24bn and delivered a compound rate of return to shareholders of over 17% per year.
In episode 93 of the No Limitations podcast, “The Next Step,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Jillian Broadbent AC, Non-Executive Director of Macquarie Group Ltd, the Sydney Dance Company and the National Portrait Gallery Board Foundation. She was previously the Inaugural Chair of the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, Chair of Swiss Re Life & Health Australia and Chancellor of the University of Wollongong.Against a backdrop of an illustrious career spanning business, the public sector and the arts, Jillian shares with us the key learnings that allowed her to make an impact. She also highlights how we can see opportunities in the challenges of our time. Finally, with Australians deciding their future course in the coming weeks, Jillian challenges us to think about our legacy for generations to come and brings to the fore the spirit of generosity that is pertinent to today’s discourse.In 2019, Jillian was made a Companion of the Order of Australia for her eminent service to corporate, financial, clean energy and cultural organisations, to higher education, and to women in business. She has served on the Boards of the Reserve Bank of Australia, Woolworths Group, the Australian Securities Exchange, SBS, Qantas Airways, Westfield Property Trusts, Woodside Petroleum, Coca-Cola Amatil, the Sydney Theatre Company, NIDA, the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and the Art Gallery of New South Wales.Please note: this was recorded on 27 April 2022.
In episode 92 of the No Limitations podcast, “Draw the Distinction,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Tony Lowings, former Global Chief Executive Officer of KFC.Having led a $31bn business and over a million people, Tony shares with us his key learnings in mobilising a global workforce through a pandemic, the importance of trust and communication, and drawing the distinction in decision making. Against the backdrop of his globetrotting career, we hear of the impressive growth and scale of what is one of the world’s most popular brands with presence in over 149 countries across 27,000 restaurants.Tony also previously held the roles of Managing Director for KFC Asia Pacific based in Singapore, Managing Director for KFC Australia and New Zealand, Managing Director of Latin America (and Caribbean), and Chief Operations Officer of Yum! Restaurants International based in Dallas, with brands such as KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell.
In episode 91 of the No Limitations podcast, “Changing the Paradigm,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Hisham El-Ansary, Chief Executive Officer of Bupa Asia Pacific.In an insightful discussion, Hisham shares with us a unique view of Australia’s healthcare and aged care sectors, from the current state and challenges across the industry to the opportunities to unlock better outcomes, experiences and overall quality of life. We also hear of his journey, one that found him challenging and changing the paradigm, starting as the “young Turk wanting to prove himself,” finding himself across various sectors including retail, energy, aviation and construction, making the leap from CFO to CEO and how he decided to become the leader he wanted to be.Prior to his appointment as CEO, Hisham held the roles of Chief Financial & Strategy Officer and Managing Director of Bupa Health Services. He was previously Chief Financial Officer of Myer, Integral Energy and Airservices Australia and was a Non-Executive Director of Very Special Kids.
In episode 90, “The Edge of a New Frontier,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Luke Sayers AM, Founder and Executive Chairman of Sayers Group and President of the Carlton Football Club.In an insightful discussion, Luke shares with us the lessons, learnings and highlights from a career that has seen him continually evolve and always at the edge of a new frontier: finding success across different countries, being appointed CEO of PwC Australia at the age of 42, and now having established Sayers Group. We hear of the differing approaches to innovation around the world, with Luke seeing shifts in mindsets and people willing to break from – and challenge – tradition.Luke is also a Director of Sentient Impact Group and Chair of the Inclusion Foundation. He was previously Chief Executive Officer of PwC Australia and Vice Chairman of PwC Asia Pacific, where he led a team of over 700 partners and 8,000 staff, successfully growing the firm’s revenue from $1.4bn to $2.6bn.
In episode 89, “The Cost of Prosperity,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Senator Jim Molan AO DSC, Liberal Senator for New South Wales and a retired Major General of the Australian Army. He is also currently Chair of the Defence Sub-Committee and Deputy Chair of the Select Committee on Foreign Interference through Social Media.In this candid conversation, we are given a unique insight into the highly complex arena of national security, global geopolitics and armed conflict. With threats to national security and the world order at large, Senator Molan shares with us the opportunities present to ensure the sustainability of the relative prosperity Australia has enjoyed in decades past and the safety of generations to come.During his 40-year tenure in the Australian Army, Senator Molan has been an infantryman, helicopter pilot and Commander of a division of 15,000 soldiers. He was deployed to Iraq in 2004 during a period of continuous and intense combat as Chief of Operations of the Coalition Forces. Following his retirement from the Australian Army in 2008, he released his first book, “Running the War in Iraq.”Please note, this episode was recorded in January 2022.
In episode 88, “The Lottery of Life,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to entrepreneur, adventurer, philanthropist and 1986 Australian of the Year Dick Smith AC. Dick is widely known for founding Dick Smith Electronics, Australian Geographic and Dick Smith Foods.In a lively conversation, Dick shares with us his remarkable adventure, one that truly showcases his entrepreneurial flair and deep desire to make a difference. We hear of his enthralling aviation exploits: weathering hurricane-force winds in a balloon and persevering nasty conditions to make a timely appointment with Prince Charles in the first successful solo circumnavigation of the world in a helicopter. Looking back, Dick reflects on the crucial moments that led to his successes and his hopes for future generations.Dick was awarded Companion of the Order of Australia in 2015 for eminent service to the community as a benefactor of a range of not-for-profit and conservation organisations, through support for major fundraising initiatives for humanitarian and social welfare programs, to medical research and the visual arts, and to aviation. He recently published his autobiography, My Adventurous Life, where he shares more of his inspiring story and the lessons he's learned about staying true to yourself.
In episode 87, “Creating the Culture,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Radek Sali, former Chief Executive of Swisse Wellness Group and currently Chairman and Founder of Light Warrior Group, an investment firm committed to creating shared value by investing in businesses that are socially responsible and environmentally conscious.In today’s conversation, Radek shares with us the guiding principles that have seen him galvanise people towards a common purpose, the pioneering exploits in positioning a premium product as he revolutionised Australia’s health and wellness sector as well as the important lessons learned in a fascinating journey. As Chief Executive of the Swisse Wellness Group, Radek helped negotiate the sale of the group to Hong Kong-listed Biostime for 1.7 billion dollars – one of the largest private company transactions in Australian history.Radek continues to advocate for a purpose-driven approach to business. He is also Executive Chairman of Wanderlust, a Director of Stratosphere, Anthem, Conscious Investment Management, Igniting Change and the B Team Australasia.
In Episode 86, “A Future for All,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Tony Stuart, Chief Executive Officer of UNICEF Australia.In an eye-opening discussion, Tony shares with us the sobering reality children from the most disadvantaged and marginalised sectors in Australia and around the world face; the threats to their safety as they grow up in a society rife with conflict and disasters. He also sheds a light on UNICEF’s efforts to keep children safe, provide education, nutrition and health care as well as to support their long-term development and wellbeing.While Australia remains one of the richest countries in the world, some 3 million people, including more than 731,000 children are living in poverty. To find out more about UNICEF Australia and to support this most worthwhile of causes, please visit www.unicef.org.au.Tony also currently serves as Chair of the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission Advisory Board and is a member of the Prime Minister’s Community Business Partnership. Previously, Tony was the CEO of the National Roads and Motorists' Association and Sydney Airports Corporation. He also recently chaired the Not-for-Profit Advisory Board to the National COVID-19 Commission, was a founding Director of the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals, and a former Director of the Heart Research Institute of Australia and the Starlight Children’s Foundation National Board.
In Episode 85, “Look Up, Not Down,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Graham Mirabito, Non-Executive Director of Harcourts International, Lendi, Archistar and Cipherpoint Ltd.In an engaging and candid conversation, Graham lends us his lens to the world and shares with us his journey across continents, venturing into the unknown, opening new markets and staying at the forefront of game-changing technology. Now in the Boardroom and an avid investor in PropTech and FinTech, Graham sheds a light on the unseen opportunities as well as provides us with valuable insight into the Australian property market.Graham was previously Chief Executive Officer of RP Data/CoreLogic, having grown the business tenfold as it expanded its range of property data and analytics services. He also previously held senior executive roles at Telstra Corporation, including Executive Director eBusiness and Innovation, Managing Director Telstra UK and Senior Vice President Telstra International.
In Episode 84, “No Middle Ground,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Andrew Jolliffe, Managing Director and Co-Founder of HTL Property, a boutique specialist and pure brokerage agency.Andrew, having personally overseen the acquisition or divestment of hundreds of valuable hotel, leisure and tourism assets, shares insights into an industry brimming with opportunity – a unique proposition in what is a core feature of the Australian way of life. We are treated to fascinating stories throughout his career, having started at one of Sydney’s most popular beach-front venues to now leading the premier specialist agency in the country.Prior to establishing HTL Property, Andrew owned and operated the market-leading hospitality property business within the Ray White Group. He was also previously Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of National Leisure and Gaming Ltd, Managing Director of Grant Samuel Private Equity Hospitality Fund and General Manager of Palace Leisure Group.
In Episode 83, “Power through Purpose,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Linda Mellors, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Regis Healthcare Ltd, one of Australia’s largest aged care services providers.In today’s episode, Linda shares some valuable insight into an industry on the cusp of major reform, having gone through an eye-opening Royal Commission as well as a global pandemic that has seen their residents as some of society’s most vulnerable. With Australia’s ageing population continuing to rise, Linda, at the helm of Regis, is uniquely positioned to make a profound impact on the way we tend and care for our elderly loved ones today and in the future.Linda is also currently a Director of Mackillop Family Services. Prior to joining Regis, Linda held a range of leadership roles in hospital and health systems, as well as a national aged care service. She was also formerly Co-Chair of the Victorian Metropolitan Hospital Chief Executive Group, Inaugural Chair of the Aged Care Reform Network, Chair of the Aged Care Guild and North Eastern Metropolitan Integrated Cancer Service, Board Member of the Parent Infant Research Institute and Board Director of the South Western Melbourne Medicare Local.
In Episode 82, “Taking Calculated Risks,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to former public servant, businessman and engineer, Tim Besley AC. Previously, he has been Chairman of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Leighton Holdings and the CIG Group, Chancellor of Macquarie University and Managing Director of Monier Ltd.We are treated to some fascinating stories from Tim’s distinguished career that spanned both public and private sectors, which saw him walk the corridors of power and his eventual appointment as Chairman of the Commonwealth Bank where he played a key role in its privatisation in the 1990s. He shares his views on the financial services industry today, Australia’s place on the global stage, and the opportunities. We also hear of Tim’s beginnings as an engineer, landing in Sydney at the then Rose Bay International Airport going on to work for the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Authority, or the Snowy Scheme, which has been hailed as one of the civil engineering wonders of the modern world.Tim’s career in the public service included senior roles in the Commonwealth Department of Business and Consumer Affairs, the Department of Treasury, the Department of External Territories, the Foreign Investment Review Board, and Customs. He has also previously served as Chairman of the Australian Research Council, the Cooperative Research Centre for Greenhouse Gas Technologies, the Telecommunications Service Enquiry, the University of Newcastle’s Science and Engineering Challenge Council, the Wheat Export Authority, and the New South Wales Transport Advisory Board.
In Episode 81, “The Pub Test,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Dan Brady CEO and Managing Director of listed Redcape Hotel Group, CEO and Managing Director MA Hotel Management - an investment grade Hospitality Manager (a subsidiary of MA Financial Group) and an Executive Committee Member of MA Financial Group. Dan leads a hospitality group of more than 1200 dedicated people who passionately enrich 31 different communities along Australia’s east coast.In an engaging and energising conversation, Dan shares the key pillars to his leadership success including how he leads stakeholder success by elevating common values through a clear and simple vision and strategy which engenders a high level of trust within teams. Dan speaks about his leadership journey and his belief that if you have purpose driven, values aligned people they create a value chain of satisfied customers which in turn delivers sustainable Total Shareholder Returns (TSR).Through a powerful and insightful conversation, what sets Dan apart as a leader is his purpose led action and how he empowers those around him in all facets of his life to learn, grown and succeed. This has seen Dan drive unbelievable alignment and commitment from those who work with him and for him, customers and investors. With an aim of leading excellence and transcending opportunities, he drives a transparent business model that delivers enhanced experiences to all stakeholders.Using his experience, Dan actively contributes to the advancement and progression of the industry through his role as a Director of the Liquor Stax Retail Group and as an influential member of the Australian Hotels Association.
In Episode 80, “Moving the World Forward,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Tami Erwin, Chief Executive Officer of Verizon Business.At the helm of a $32bn business employing 26,000 people across 50 countries, Tami gives us a glimpse into the inner workings of one of the world’s largest communication technology companies, and shares the key tenets behind her impressive rise within the ranks of Verizon and the story behind her moniker, “The Velvet Hammer.”As the world ushers in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and continues to unlock cutting-edge technology, from 5G and edge computing to artificial intelligence and big data, Tami brings to the fore the endless opportunities available to us to address and overcome the challenges individuals, companies and societies face.Alongside her current position as an Executive Vice President of Verizon Communications Inc., Tami also serves on the Boards of Deere & Company, The Paley Media Center and the Verizon Foundation. Having started as a customer service representative, she has gone on to hold senior leadership positions within the Group, including Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer and heading Verizon Fios, America’s largest residential and commercial fibre network.
In Episode 79, “The Perfect Blend”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Les Schirato AM, Chief Executive Officer of Vittoria Food and Beverage, home of Australia’s leading pure coffee brand.Finding himself in a quiet Australian coffee scene many years ago, Les shares with us his journey fuelled by a relentless drive and spirited entrepreneurship, overcoming sociocultural barriers and a conservatively uninspired market to shape the Australian coffee culture we know and love today. As Australia’s “Coffee King”, he has remarkably built a thriving international business and wonderfully brought together the best of Australian and Italian cultures. Finally, Les sheds light on passion, drive, trust and loyalty, elements behind the perfect blend paramount to his success.Les has served as President of the Australian Coffee and Tea Associate and Chairman of the YPO Gold Sydney Chapter. Les' passion and his service to the community through philanthropic contributions to health, youth, social welfare organisations and to business was recognised with him being awarded a member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2008. In 2017, Les was awarded a Knighthood of the Order of Merit by Decree of the French President for his work between Australia and France in the area of trade and tourism.
In Episode 78, “The Fundamental Cornerstone of Leadership”,Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Magnus Nicolin, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ansell Ltd, employing over 13,000 people across 55 countries and with customers in more than a hundred countries. In a captivating conversation, dialling in from Brussels, Magnus reveals his key learnings from an extensive international career and speaks about the importance of finding something to like about every situation, inner determination and building trust with all stakeholders, all fundamental in seizing opportunities and inspiring success.Magnus has led Ansell as CEO for the last 11 years and will in the next month hand over to his successor, Neil Salmon. Under Magnus’s leadership, Ansell has been thoroughly transformed into a focused safety company with fully integrated innovation, manufacturing and global sales. Sales have doubled, EBIT increased threefold, while shareholders have seen an average annual TSR of more than 14 per cent.As market leaders positioned at the heart of the safety products industry, Magnus provides us with a unique perspective into the challenges that Ansell faced and overcame as the COVID-19 pandemic placed unprecedented pressure on the global demand for protective equipment and apparel. He also shares with us an appreciation of the economic shifts happening across the globe and foretells what a post-pandemic world might have in store.Magnus is also a Director of industrial holding company FAM AB. Prior to his role at Ansell, Magnus was President, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific of Newell Rubbermaid Inc. and Chief Executive Officer of Esselte which he took private with a PE sponsor. He also held senior management positions with Bayer AG, Pitney Bowes and McKinsey & Company.
In Episode 77, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Australia’s Team Captain and flagbearer from the 2016 Rio Olympics, two-time Olympic Gold Medallist, Anna Meares OAM in the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast, “Dedication Beyond Comprehension.”In an exciting conversation, we are treated to Anna’s tales of triumph, perseverance and overcoming adversity. She shares with us her fascinating career on and off the banked tracks of the velodrome: from the moment that ignited her quest for success to the tremendous dedication required to compete on the biggest stage. Despite the setback from a terrible accident early in her career, she defied the odds, recovered and continued her journey to the Everest of her sport. Finally, we hear about Anna’s endeavours after her stellar track cycling career and how she continues to inspire the coming generations.As the most decorated and successful female track cyclist in history, Anna is the first Australian athlete to win four individual medals at four consecutive Olympic Games. She also set world records and won numerous honours in World Championships and Commonwealth Games in her 22 years in the sport.
In an Olympic special, “The Never-ending Pursuit of Excellence”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to two-time Olympic Gold Medallist Kieren Perkins OAM, President of Swimming Australia and Chief Executive Officer of Australian Unity Bank.Kieren takes us through his incredible swimming career, from the accident as a child that led to his passion for the sport, to his triumph at the 1996 Olympic Games, winning the gold medal in the 1500m Freestyle in lane eight, becoming the second Australian to defend an Olympic Championship. From the importance of key support systems and mentoring to endless training and dedication, Kieren gives us an insight into the mind of an athlete at the top of their sport and what it truly takes to succeed. Finally, he shares with us the difficulties of navigating retirement from an athlete’s perspective, his thoughts on the upcoming Tokyo Olympic Games and what his life and career look like beyond the eight lanes.As a freestyle swimmer, Kieren competed and won multiple gold medals across three Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, World Aquatics Championships and Pan Pacific Swimming Championships. Prior to his appointment at Australian Unity Bank, he held leadership positions at National Australia Bank and has served as a Director of The Australian Sports Commission, The Sport Australia Hall of Fame, the Starlight Children’s Foundation, and the ANZAC Foundation.
In Episode 75, “Forward with Courage and Curiosity”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to John Lydon, former Managing Partner, Australia and New Zealand of McKinsey & Company. He is currently a Senior Partner of the firm.We are treated to some fascinating stories from John’s distinguished career, hailing from the quiet and peaceful county of Lincolnshire to traversing the world, advising clients on decisions that impact communities and the greater society, ultimately leading McKinsey & Company in Australia and New Zealand. Following his term as Managing Partner, John took a sabbatical to truly explore how businesses can create more value for all stakeholders and society. Today, he shares with us his key learnings and reveals how true commitment to ESG, social impact and purpose can positively influence not only a business’s bottom line but also the future of the world and generations to come.During John’s tenure at McKinsey & Company, the Australia and New Zealand practice grew three-fold to over 450 consultants. He also founded McKinsey Implementation globally. He is also Chairman of Generation Australia, Co-Chair of the Australian Climate Leaders Coalition and a member of the University of Technology Sydney’s Vice Chancellor’s Advisory Board.
In Episode 74, “Where to Now?”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson once again speaks to The Hon Joel Fitzgibbon MP, Member for Hunter, New South Wales. In a sobering conversation, Joel reflects on the state of Australian politics, particularly of the Labor Party; the opportunities and challenges in progressing healthy political discourse to best serve not only the party’s base but all Australians. To reconcile a vision of the country with the actions of today, Joel offers a way forward to deliver job security and sustained prosperity.A member of the Australian Labor Party, Joel has represented his electorate for the last 25 years. He was previously Minister for Defence and Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and has served as Chief Government Whip and Chaired the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence & Trade.
In Episode 73, “The True Ally Amongst Friends”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to April Palmerlee, Chief Executive Officer of the American Chamber of Commerce Australia (AmCham).April transports us to Washington, D.C., into the world of American politics and foreign policy, with insights to figures including President George W. Bush, Secretary Colin Powell and Dr Henry Kissinger. We are taken across borders, from her time advocating for women’s issues on the ground during the War on Terror in Afghanistan to fostering United States business and investment relationships with Australia. From the innovative American entrepreneurial mindset to the challenges limiting greater business investment in Australia, April brings to light the endless possibilities available to Australia through its strong and unique alliance with the United States.With a quarter of all foreign direct investment in Australia coming from the United States, AmCham is one of the most significant international business organisations in Australia, promoting two-way trade and investment and standing up for business for over 60 years. April is also a Director of The Centre for Independent Studies and Georgetown University’s Centre for Australian, New Zealand and Pacific Studies and Founder of Pink Skirt Productions, an organisation that established easily accessible ultra-marathon races. She previously held roles at the University of Sydney’s United States Studies Centre, the Lowy Institute for International Policy, the Council of Foreign Relations, the United States Department of State, and worked closely with renowned couturier Oscar de la Renta.
In Episode 72, Pressure Is a Made-up Word, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Robert Millner, Chairman of investment house Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd. Having been listed in 1903, Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd is the second oldest publicly listed company on the Australian Securities Exchange and is one of the few companies that has been successfully managed by the same family from the outset, with Robert representing the fourth generation. He is also Chairman of Brickworks Ltd, BKI Investment Company Ltd, Milton Corporation Ltd, New Hope Corporation Ltd and a Director of Apex Healthcare Berhad Ltd, TPG Telecom Ltd and Tuas Ltd.In an open discussion, we gain insights and cover the experiences of one of the doyens of Australia’s investment industry and broader business landscape; from joining as a Director at a young age, upholding the family legacy and market reputation, and to never failing to pay a dividend to shareholders. With investments across manufacturing, property, mining, bulk handling, pharmaceuticals and telecommunications, Robert speaks about the savviness required to navigate different and complex business environments all over the world and affords us a glimpse into the mind of someone known for his ability to turn bargains into big returns.
In Episode 71, “Head, Heart and Soul”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Emily Chang, Chief Executive Officer of McCann Worldgroup China, joining us from Shanghai. In a spirited and compelling conversation, Emily draws open the curtains and allows us a view into the breathtaking scale of consumerism in China and the dynamics at play. Talking through her international career spanning the East and West with some of the world’s most iconic brands, including her time looking after the Apple brand in China, Emily brings to our attention the realm of possibilities and relentless focus on creativity and innovation in capturing the hearts of the modern consumer. From mindsets and obstacles to the pace of competition, we are treated to a unique view into the revolution of commerce in China and what it could mean for the rest of the world.Emily also touches on the concept of social legacy with her recent book, The Spare Room, to inspire us to live and lead with renewed intention and authenticity, to break down walls and do extraordinary things.Prior to her role at McCann Worldgroup China, Emily held a variety of senior leadership positions at Starbucks, InterContinental Hotels Group, Apple, and Procter & Gamble. Emily is also on the Board of SOS Children’s Villages and the author of The Spare Room.
In Episode 70, “Think Without Barriers”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to John Rothwell AO, Founder and Chairman of Austal Ltd. As the world’s largest aluminium shipbuilder, Austal owns and operates industry-leading shipyards in Australia, the United States of America, the Philippines and Vietnam, with a joint venture in China and a global support network. John was also previously Chairman of the Australian Shipbuilders Association and the State Training Board of Western Australia.From two boats out of a backyard to leading Australia’s first ASX-listed shipbuilder, John gives us a view through the lens of an entrepreneur; the tenacity and thinking required to overcome obstacles, expanding and opening new markets offshore, and building a legacy. He also shares his views on the stark contrast between business conditions in Australia and the United States, and making deals in China. Finally, John imparts some advice to the entrepreneurs who see the world’s limitations.
In Episode 69, “Comfort in Change”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Ed McManus, Chief Executive Officer of Deliveroo Australia. Deliveroo Australia has a network of over 8,000 riders and drivers and works with over 14,000 restaurants across the country. Previously, Ed was Chief Executive Officer of Meridian Energy Australia, the owner-operator of the Powershop retail electricity brand and a number of electricity generation assets. He also held a variety of roles with REA Group and GlaxoSmithKline after beginning his career as a medical research scientist.In an open conversation, Ed shares with us his fascinating story, one fuelled by curiosity, that has seen him work and lead across different industries. We hear of the COVID-19 experience in the food delivery sector, which provided a lifeline to restaurants all over, and the opportunities ahead. Eager for challenges and comfortable in change, Ed brings to light the real reform required to inspire confidence amidst ambiguity, from small businesses doing it tough to the world as a whole for generations to come.
In Episode 68, “Never Get Comfortable”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Mark Fitzgibbon, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of nib Group. Mark has been CEO of the group for over 18 years and led its demutualisation and listing on the ASX in 2007. He is also a Director of Private Healthcare Australia and previously held CEO positions for both the national and New South Wales peak industry bodies for licensed clubs and in local government.In an engaging discussion, Mark shares with us his journey that has seen him become one of the longest-serving CEOs in Australia in arguably one of the most complex and important sectors, instilling the ambition and mantra of world domination in teams he has assembled. He presents healthcare in a new light, against a backdrop of historical perceptions, providing us with a glimpse of the future, as we witness some of the most exciting changes in the industry.
In Episode 67, “Leading from the Heart”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Ronni Kahn AO, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of OzHarvest. Founded in 2004, OzHarvest has gone on to become Australia’s leading food rescue organisation, with a model making its way around the globe. Recognised as Australian Local Hero of the Year in 2010, Ronni also serves in an advisory capacity to government, was the subject of the eye-opening feature film Food Fighter and recently published her memoir, A Repurposed Life.In a riveting discussion, Ronni shares the experiences which ultimately led to the founding and eventual success of OzHarvest; a journey of self-discovery, intrepid entrepreneurship and making a life-changing impact in society. With a mission to halve food wastage in Australia by 2030, especially during a time where food security and availability are continuously being tested, Ronni challenges us to shift our thinking and to take on a greater role in making a difference. Lastly, we are given a peek into OzHarvest’s upcoming release of an exciting world-first project.
Episode 66, “The Search for Perfection” In this inspiring conversation, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks again to John Bertrand AO, international sportsman, Olympic medallist and world champion. John famously skippered Australia II to win the 1983 America’s Cup, which was voted as the finest team performance in 200 years of Australian sport by The Confederation of Australian Sport. He is currently Chair of The Sport Australia Hall of Fame and previously President of Swimming Australia.As we all look to leadership to help us navigate past the new normal, John returns to the show to share a glimpse into a world beyond the elastic limitations of the rules, with a particular focus on high performance – both as an individual and as part of a team. We learn what it takes to deliver on the biggest stage, from the thousands of hours of perfect practice to the mentality required to perform in the moment. In this inspiring discussion, Greg and John dig deep and discuss the profound impact of a true leader in lifting their team, their organisation and the country.
In Episode 65, “Pushing the Boundaries”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Michael Miller, Executive Chairman, News Corp Australasia, who oversees a portfolio of national, metropolitan, regional and community brands that include The Australian, Sky News Australia, Herald Sun, The Daily Telegraph and Vogue Australia. News Corp Australia also has significant investments in Foxtel, Fox Sports Australia and the REA Group, to name a few. Michael is also Chairman of the Premium Content Alliance and a Director of Foxtel. He was previously Chief Executive Officer of APN News and Media.In an open discussion, Michael shares with us his views on an array of topics; from his career journey, the evolution of journalism and the role of media, building trust, to the future of news and big tech. At an age where competition and content are plenty, he brings to the fore the importance of diversity in creative and constructive debate and what it means to innovate, to set the benchmark and push the boundaries.Please note the podcast was recorded on 28 January 2021.
In Episode 64, “The Great Spectrum of Opportunities”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to David Thodey AO, Chairman of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Xero Ltd and Tyro Payments Ltd. He is also a Non-Executive Director of Ramsay Health Care Ltd. In 2020, David was appointed Commissioner for the National COVID-19 Coordination Advisory Board. Previously, he was Chief Executive Officer of Telstra Corporation Ltd and of IBM Australia and New Zealand.In a forward-thinking discussion, David draws our attention to the multitude of opportunities in front of us, from how Australia can position itself favourably in the shift to renewable energy to tapping into the potential of the world-class biotech and broader technology environments in our own backyard. Mindful of the past, he also shares with us learnings from a career that has seen him traverse countries, on the move for two-thirds of the year, and at the helm of one of the country’s largest and most recognisable organisations.
In this episode, “Pink for Purpose”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Holly Masters, Chief Executive Officer of the McGrath Foundation. Previously, Holly worked for Estée Lauder Companies where she held a variety of roles over 12 years including, Vice President General Manager of Clinique Asia Pacific. She has also led brands such as Jo Malone London, La Mer and Molton Brown across Australia and co-founded mission21, a marketing and communications agency in London.In a fast-paced discussion, Holly gives us a unique insight into the amazing work being done by the McGrath Foundation, from where it all started to how it grew, having supported more than 91,000 individuals and their families over the last 15 years. We hear of inspiring tales of the unsung heroes of the community, their relentless efforts despite the challenges brought about by the year that has passed and how the McGrath Foundation will paint Australia pink in the upcoming days.To find out more about the McGrath Foundation and to support the cause, please visit www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au.
In Episode 62, “Chance Favours the Prepared Mind”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Professor Sir Edward Byrne AC, President and Principal of King’s College London and Chairman of King’s Health Partners. He was previously University President and Vice Chancellor, and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences of Monash University and Vice-Provost (Health) of University College London. Ed was also a founding Director of the Melbourne Neuromuscular Research Unit and the Centre for Neuroscience and has served as Non-Executive Director for Bupa and Cochlear Ltd.
In an insightful conversation, Ed shares with us his journey, which has seen him go back and forth between the United Kingdom and Australia, witnessing the significant breakthroughs in neuroscience and leading some of the world’s best universities. Greg and Ed cover the complex ecosystem that is higher education, its global nature, the challenges the sector faces during and even before the pandemic, and the similarities between universities in the United Kingdom and Australia and where they diverge. Finally, we gain a unique perspective into the current state of the United Kingdom and the intricacies associated with COVID-19 and Brexit.
In Episode 61, “Character Is the Foundation”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Jeff Sengelman DSC AM CSC, a retired Major General in the Australian Defence Force. Jeff has had a distinguished career spanning almost 40 years, most recently as Special Operations Commander Australia, where he was responsible for all Special Forces and crucial national missions operating in the most dangerous environments across the globe. He has been a trusted senior advisor to both Government and the Chief of the Defence Force on security issues of national significance and a principal adviser on counter-terrorism. He is currently Chairman of Harvest Technology Group Ltd.In a revealing conversation, Jeff and Greg discuss character, loyalty and leadership under the harshest and most complex of circumstances and reflect on not just the individual, but the collective. Jeff shares his views on a number of current issues which go to the core of the Australian spirit and affect Australians the world over.Please note that the views and opinions expressed by Jeff Sengelman in this podcast are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of the organisations he is involved with.
In Episode 60, “The Battle for the Soul of America, Part 2”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks again to Stephen Loosley AM, who served as Senator for New South Wales in the Australian Parliament during the Hawke and Keating Governments, where he chaired both the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade and the Senate Regulations Committee. He is now the Deputy Chair of Thales Australia and a Director of O’Connell Street Associates. He has served as Chair of the Woomera Prohibited Area Advisory Board and is the immediate past Chair of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, where he is now a Senior Fellow.In this fast-paced discussion, Stephen and Greg review the 2020 United States Presidential Election – the key moments, how events unfolded, what the future of America will look like and the ramifications for the world.Please note that the views and opinions expressed by Stephen Loosley in this podcast are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of the organisations he is involved with.
In Episode 59,“Do It for the Right Reasons”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Mark Allison, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Elders Ltd. He is also currently Chair of Agribusiness Australia, AuctionsPlus, the Agriculture and Natural Resources End-User Advisory Board of the SmartSat CRC, the Agrifood and Wine Advisory Board of Adelaide University, a Non-Executive Director of GrainGrowers Ltd and a member of the Rabobank Food and Agriculture Advisory Board. Previously, Mark was the CEO of GrainGrowers Ltd, Jeminex Ltd, Farmoz, Wesfarmers Landmark Ltd, Wesfarmers CSBP Ltd and CropCare Australasia.In a straightforward conversation, Mark, now in his seventh CEO position, shares his thoughts on real leadership and just running things properly. We gain an insight into one of the most successful turnaround stories in business. During Mark’s current tenure of just over six years, Elders has grown from a market capitalisation of $50m to $1.8bn. From the droughts to the bushfires, politicking to pragmatism and innovation to infrastructure, Greg and Mark examine the facts and get to the heart of the matter. Not only do we learn about creating a corporate culture that delivers, but we also get a peek into Mark’s creative process as a musician, which has yielded 144 songs across nine albums under the moniker “Mallison”.
In Episode 58, “Follow Your Instincts”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Trevor Rowe AO, previously Executive Chairman and currently a Senior Advisor of Rothschild & Co Australia. Prior thereto, he was at Citigroup Global Markets and held numerous senior positions within Salomon Brothers for over 23 years. He was previously Chairman of UGL Ltd, Resimac Group, Careers Australia Group, BrisConnections, Queensland BioCapital Fund Ltd, Gotalk Ltd, The World and the Queensland Investment Corporation. Trevor also served on the Boards of the Future Fund of Australia and the Australian Securities Exchange Ltd, and was a Member of the Australian Foreign Affairs Council during the Howard Government and the Australia-China High-Level Dialogue Forum. He was the Chancellor of Bond University from 2002 to 2009.In a candid conversation, Trevor shares a number of fascinating stories, from his interactions with Presidents, Prime Ministers, global CEOs and entrepreneurial giants to his journey in forging a successful international career. He touches on the importance of education and understanding other perspectives in managing relationships, be it in brokering deals or balancing on the tightrope of geopolitics. Finally, Greg and Trevor cover the international state of affairs, the global economy and the new world.Please note that this was recorded prior to the 2020 United States Presidential Election.
In Episode 57, “The New Future”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Gabby Costigan MBE, Chief Executive Officer of BAE Systems Australia. She is also Chair of the Council for Women and Families United by Defence Service and was previously Chief Executive Officer for Linfox International Group. A retired Colonel in the Australian Army, she has had a distinguished career that included commanding logistic operations for both Australian and US deployed military forces.In an open conversation, Gabby shares her experience in the army, having been to Afghanistan and Iraq and how she made the successful transition from the military to the corporate world. Greg and Gabby discuss the exciting growth trajectory of the Australian defence industry and how it will shape the country moving forward with the billions being invested into the sector, a beacon of hope in these most challenging of times, with the technologies being developed in our backyard that will give Australian industry a competitive advantage for years to come.
In Episode 56, “Team Spirit Is a One-Way Street”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to John Bertrand AO, international sportsman, Olympic medallist and world champion. John famously skippered the winged keel Australia II to victory to win the 1983 America’s Cup, breaking 132 years of American domination. The Confederation of Australian Sport voted the victory as the finest team performance in 200 years of Australian sport. He is currently Chair of The Sport Australia Hall of Fame and previously President of Swimming Australia and Chair of the Alannah and Madeline Children’s Foundation.In a captivating conversation, John looks back on the historic day Australia won the America’s Cup: the lead-up to it, having to overcome a 3-1 deficit and drawing the courage, conviction and cunning to conquer the Americans. An engineer by background, he draws on the importance of embracing technology and innovation, having the trust and vision together with the mental toughness in building high-performing teams in pursuit of excellence. Finally, John and Greg discuss leadership, from the deck to the Boardroom, and we find out what’s next in John’s illustrious career.
In Episode 55, “It All Starts with the Family”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Josephine Sukkar AM, Principal and Co-Owner of Buildcorp, which she established with her husband 30 years ago. She is also a Non-Executive Director of Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd, Growthpoint Properties Australia Ltd, the Property Council of Australia, The Australian Museum, Opera Australia and the Sydney University Football Club Foundation. She is also the Chair of the Buildcorp Foundation and President of Australian Women’s Rugby.In a candid conversation, Josephine shares with us the lessons learned, the importance of staying true to one’s values and the amazing teamwork behind the success of Buildcorp. She talks about her passions, from Australian Rugby and supporting the women’s game, to her advocacy for mental health and sheds a light on the issue plaguing our society, heightened by the pandemic. Finally, Josephine challenges us to think differently and take this time as an opportunity to reflect on this collective experience and to ask ourselves how we will move forward and what do we want for our country and our future.
In Episode 54, “The Game – It’s Completely Changed”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Kevin McCann AO, Chairman of Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd and China Matters, Director of Evans Dixon Ltd and a Trustee of the Sydney Opera House Trust. He is a former Chairman of Macquarie Group Ltd and Macquarie Bank Ltd, Origin Energy Ltd, Healthscope Ltd, Citadel Group Ltd and ING Management Ltd.Kevin has had an impressive career influencing almost every business sector in Australia and along the way, has been prepared to challenge the establishment and champion new thinking. In this thought-provoking episode, Kevin shares his insights on the state of the Boardroom, Australia on the world stage, learnings from the Hayne Royal Commission, immigration and red tape.Kevin touches on the future direction of Australian business, the current economic climate and the challenge for Australia and where he sees Australia’s energy policy. He also discusses the key to business success, what a Chairman looks for in a Chief Executive Officer and his thoughts on diversity.Please note that this was recorded prior to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
In Episode 53, “The Battle for the Soul of America”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Stephen Loosley AM, who served as Senator for New South Wales in the Australian Parliament during the Hawke and Keating Governments, where he chaired both the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade and the Senate Regulations Committee. He is now the Deputy Chair of Thales Australia and a Director of O’Connell Street Associates. He has served as Chair of the Woomera Prohibited Area Advisory Board and is the immediate past Chair of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, where he is now a Senior Fellow.In today’s discussion, Stephen will help us navigate the upcoming US election, in what many argue will possibly be the most divisive of campaigns and one of the most important elections in our lifetime. He takes us through the state of play, the candidates and their respective parties, their platforms and policies and where it will be won and lost.Looking forward, there will be a second part to the conversation after the election, to review the key moments, where it was ultimately won, what the future of America will look like and what this means to Australia and the world.Please note that the views and opinions expressed by Stephen Loosley in this podcast are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of the organisations he is involved with
In Episode 52, “Selfish Happiness”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to 2011 Australian of the Year, Simon McKeon AO. Simon is currently Chancellor of Monash University and Non-Executive Director of National Australia Bank Ltd and Rio Tinto Group. He previously served as Chairman of AMP Ltd and CSIRO and was Founding President of the Federal Government’s Australian Takeovers Panel. Simon has had a long and passionate involvement with non-profit organisations, including serving as Chairman of MS Research Australia, Independent Schools Victoria, In2Science, Summer Housing, South East Melbourne and the Australian Industry Energy Transitions Initiative.In a candid conversation, Greg and Simon discuss the fast-forwarding of change brought about by COVID-19, from the banking sector to education and how young people can adapt and thrive in the new era. An avid sportsman, Simon translates lessons from the fast-paced arena of sailing, where he held the outright world sailing speed record for many years, to the Boardroom, in embracing innovation and the power of diversity. Finally, Simon brings to the fore why selfishness and philanthropy go hand in hand and he shines a light on the champions of the non-profit sector, whose passion and devotion in making a positive difference to people’s lives make them our unsung heroes.
In Episode 51, “That’s the Game!”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Marcus Blackmore AM, former Chief Executive Officer and Chairman and currently Executive Director of Blackmores Ltd. Under his leadership, Blackmores has grown from a small range of natural remedies to become the number one natural health company in Australia. The Blackmores Group is now home to seven brands sold in 17 markets and recognised across the Asia Pacific region as the most trusted in natural health.An alumnus of Harvard Business School, Marcus is also an honorary trustee of the Committee for the Economic Development of Australia, an Honorary Fellow of the Heart Research Institute and an honorary Chief in Samoa.In an engaging discussion, Marcus shares with us his experiences that have influenced him and led to his success. From his time in the army in Vietnam, the big decisions which ultimately shaped Blackmores, to the challenges corporate Australia face, he does not hold anything back. Finally, Marcus talks about his passion for life and people, the spirit of entrepreneurship and how to win a customer for life.
In Episode 50, “Perfect or Possible”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to The Hon Joel Fitzgibbon MP, Member for Hunter, Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Resources and member of the Australian Labor Party. After being elected in 1996, Joel has represented his electorate for the last 24 years. He was previously Minister for Defence and Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. He has also served as Chief Government Whip and Chaired the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence & Trade.The son of former Member of Parliament Eric Fitzgibbon, Joel shares with us his upbringing and how the principle of equality of opportunity was instilled in him and continues to drive him to this very day. He gives us a unique look into the life of a politician, from its rigorous demands to the satisfaction derived in serving the people that put their faith in him. He also talks about the current state of the Labor party; its leadership, the challenges in finding the right balance and how they can once again form Government, with Joel having spent 18 of his 24 years in Parliament in the opposition.In a fast-paced discussion, Joel offers his frank views on the important issues we face as a nation, from climate, energy and industry debates, the pragmatism and possible compromise required in transitioning to renewable energy and the reality facing his constituents in the broader conversation about Australia’s relationship with China. He also calls on the business community to step up and demand from the Government the policy reforms needed for Australia to succeed . Lastly, Joel reminds us that in our capacity to drive change, we should never let the perfect get in the way of the possible.
In Episode 49, “The Big Challenge”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Dr Martin Parkinson AC, the Chancellor of Macquarie University. Martin served in the Commonwealth Government for almost 40 years, most recently as the Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet from 2016 to 2019 and Secretary of the Australian Treasury from 2011 to 2014. He was also Secretary of Australia’s inaugural Department of Climate Change between 2007 and 2011.Martin is currently a Non-Executive Director of Worley Ltd, North Queensland Airports and Male Champions of Change, and is a member of the Northern Territory Economic Reconstruction Commission. He previously served on the Boards of the Reserve Bank of Australia, Orica Ltd and the German Australian Chamber of Industry and Commerce and was Chair of the Australian Office of Financial Management.In this insightful conversation, Martin shares with us his views on a myriad of topics, from the inner workings of Government, the difficult task of bringing everyone together on climate policy, the impact of the pandemic on our third largest export, education, and the current dynamics in play in foreign policy. Martin and Greg address the big issues – what do we want as a society, what is important, where we are headed and the big challenge ahead.
In Episode 48, “Innovation Is Just Hard Work”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson speaks to Sam Riggall, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Clean TeQ Holdings Ltd, an Australian and Canadian listed technology company focused on the development of resources to service new energy and materials markets. He previously held senior global roles with Rio Tinto Group and Ivanhoe Mines Ltd, where he led a successful negotiation with the Mongolian Parliament of a 50-year investment agreement for the Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine.In a very thought-provoking episode, Sam challenges us to consider where we are as a society, highlighting that the world is at a tipping point, especially with the technological advances that await us. As the leader of a technology company that could help revolutionise renewable energy and the automotive and aerospace industries, Sam also recognises the organisation’s potential in providing safe drinking water and basic sanitation to almost a quarter of the world’s population.Sam takes us on a journey that covers the chemistry in mining, social issues in the Congo, the chessboard on which geopolitical power brokers manoeuvre in, the hope of the entrepreneur and the realisation that Elvis lives on in Rural Australia. Finally, he sheds light on the meaning behind how the rule book is being rewritten and those who succeed will be ones who adapt fastest.
In Episode 47, “The Wake Up Call”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson speaks to Kate Carnell AO, the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman. She previously held the position of Chief Executive Officer for The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which represents more than 300,000 businesses across Australia, Beyond Blue, the Australian Food and Grocery Council, the Australian General Practice Network and the National Association of Forest Industries. Kate was also the Chief Minister of the Australian Capital Territory from 1995 to 2000.A pharmacist by profession, Kate ran her own small businesses for fifteen years, and went on to become the first female to become the National Vice-President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. In 2006, Kate was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for her services to the community through contributions to economic development and support for the business sector, knowledge industries, the medical sector and medical technology advances.In a powerful conversation, Kate brings to light the reality small businesses have to face as they try to survive the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing the constant ambiguity and the confronting issues, from hidden unemployment, mental health, to battles with landlords, we discuss how the time has arrived for us to wake up and seize the opportunity, as a nation, to cut the red tape and come together, embody the spirit of the entrepreneur and support the bedrock of the Australian and global economy.Please note the podcast was recorded on 25th June 2020
In Episode 46, “The Show Must Go On”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson speaks to Sophie Galaise, Managing Director of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO). She is also on the Board of Symphony Services International, a member of the Advisory Council of the Harvard Business Review, the Australian Institute of Company Directors and the CEO Institute in Australia.Starting her career as a principal flautist in Germany at the age of 17, Sophie went on to become the Artistic Director of the Orford Arts Centre in Canada, Executive Director of the Quebec Symphony Orchestra, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Sophie was named as one of the Australian Financial Review’s 100 Women of Influence in 2015 and 2019.Sophie shares with us how the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is working to break the mould and create a new DNA. By expanding their engagement with the community, they have transcended from being a traditional orchestra to capturing new audiences and winning hearts, through partnerships with sport and film, and crossovers with the likes of Elton John.Finally, Sophie talks about the performing arts industry, arguably one of the most adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and calls for radical change to ensure its survival. She brings to light how the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra has adapted, by being inventive, embracing technology and preparing for a different future, to broaden their reach to over five continents and keep the music playing.
In Episode 45, “Desire to Deliver”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Marnie Baker, Managing Director of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank. She has been with the organisation since 1989, an Executive since 2000 and was appointed Managing Director in 2018. Marnie provides us with an insight into her baptism of fire, being at the helm during some of the most challenging times in the industry and the country.Marnie and Greg discuss the big picture of the Australian banking industry, the transition into a cashless society and the importance of a level playing field to ultimately provide customers with access to more competitive products. They delve into digitisation and the advances in technology made through partnerships; Bendigo and Adelaide Bank has always been at the forefront of innovation. In its 162-year history, it was the first to bring to market some of the services we use every day.Furthermore, Marnie talks about leadership in a time of crisis, from the importance of effective communication to the improved speed of decision making. She talks about the opportunity surrounding infrastructure investment in regional Australia and how the COVID-19 pandemic has brought to light the weakness of having the majority of the population living in metropolitan areas. Lastly, Marnie talks about the desire to deliver on a purpose and changing the way people think about banking.
In Episode 44, “Focus on What’s Important”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Sam Weiss, Non-Executive Chairman of Altium Ltd and 3P Learning Ltd. Elected as Chairman of Altium Ltd in 2007, Sam has been instrumental in the expansion and outstanding growth of the company, currently with a share price of about 33 times as it was when Sam’s tenure commenced.Sam shares with us his journey across various industries from the United States to Australia, which included a fascinating period in Europe with the sporting giant Nike. He vividly recalls his encounters with legendary athletes, such as Michael Jordan, Michael Schumacher, Cathy Freeman and the Brazilian footballer Ronaldo.In a very insightful conversation, Sam and Greg talk about the technology industry, including trends on the global stage and what can be done in Australia to transform it from a society that predominantly consumes tech products into an environment conducive to developing and producing technology. Sam draws on his experiences, particularly with Altium, and imparts his knowledge and wisdom to current and aspiring Directors on how they can achieve the goal of generating value for shareholders.
In Episode 43, “Down the Line”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Ian Pollard, Chairman of RGA Reinsurance Company of Australia and Director of Milton Corporation Ltd and the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists. He was also the Chairman of Billabong International and Managing Director of Development Finance Corporation. Ian coaches CEO’s and Senior Executives and authored numerous books on corporate finance, self-help and human capital.In these challenging times, Ian shares lessons on how to cope with pressure, highlighting his experience at Billabong International, where the Board had to meet around a hundred times in a period of one year. He provides valuable insight and words of wisdom to new and aspiring Directors to enable them to leave a mark on the company.Ian talks us through his fascinating youth as a Rhodes Scholar, Captain of the Australian Junior Davis Cup team where he faced an up-and-coming Bjorn Borg and being appointed Chair of a company at 25 years of age. An actuary by background, Ian’s early career was in investment banking. He also founded the investment company Development Capital of Australia and is a pioneer of Australian corporate finance.
In Episode 42, “Picking Up Sticks”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson speaks to Mick McCormack, former Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of APA Group. Under Mick’s fourteen-year leadership, APA Group grew from 30 employees and assets worth $1.3bn to 3,000 employees and assets of $24bn and delivered a compound rate of return to shareholders of over 17% per year.The big vision coupled with the resilience instilled in him growing up on a farm, we hear of Mick’s journey from hard hats and steel caps to leading an ASX 50 Company. Mick shares his views on authentic leadership, decision-making and setting the culture that are crucial to an organisation’s success.In a candid conversation, Greg and Mick discuss energy infrastructure in Australia and compare it to the standards overseas, a high point of topic as all nations examine how gas supply will help stimulate an economic recovery. They delve into Mick’s motivations, the causes he is passionate about and the changes he looks forward to seeing in the country. Lastly, we hear of the mum test, which has proven to be a reliable tool Mick calls upon in helping him focus and bring things to perspective.
In Episode 41, “Open for Debate”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to John Fraser, Chairman of AMP Capital Holdings Ltd, Director of AMP Ltd, Judo Bank, the Future Fund and Advance. John served as the Secretary to the Australian Treasury from 2015 to 2018 and before that was the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of UBS Global Asset Management based in London. He was previously a Member of the Board of the Reserve Bank of Australia and the Australian Council of Financial Regulators, as well as the Chair of the G20 Global Infrastructure Hub and the Victorian Funds Management Corporation.In this insightful conversation, John shares with us his unique perspective on the path to recovery as we deal with the economic and social consequences of the pandemic, the incoming shifts in global markets, particularly China and the United States, as well as Australia’s vital role in addressing key geopolitical matters. Greg and John discuss the importance of open and constructive debate, which in times has been marred by unhealthy, zealous political correctness.John gives us a rare glimpse into the corridors of power, spanning from Canberra to Washington, D.C., where he had postings at the International Monetary Fund and the Australian Embassy, from London to the Middle East, in his roles with UBS Global Asset Management and UBS Saudi Arabia, and from Presidents to Prime Ministers.
In Episode 40, “This Too Shall Pass”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Mehrdad Baghai, Chairman of Alchemy Growth, a strategy advisory firm, and Global Chief Executive Officer of High Resolves, a not-for-profit organisation focused on immersive citizenship education programs for young people in Australia, Canada, the United States, Brazil and Mexico.Mehrdad is the author of New York Times bestseller As One, as well as international bestsellers The Alchemy of Growth and The Granularity of Growth. Mehrdad was previously an Executive Director of the CSIRO and worked at McKinsey and Company as a partner and co-leader of their worldwide Growth Practice.Greg and Mehrdad discuss leadership during a crisis, the difficult decisions that have to be made and dealing with the delicate topic of trust, especially now as we are in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. Mehrdad also brings to light the unique growth opportunity brought about by a crisis; by looking within and asking the tough questions, we can rise with renewed maturity from this collective wakeup call.We hear about Mehrdad’s upbringing, and how his family moved from Iran to Canada to escape persecution. Drawing from his experiences, he had a keen interest in collective action, went on to study at Harvard University and worked with Nobel laureate Thomas Schelling. Mehrdad stresses the importance of messaging to inspire collective action, especially with the extraordinary circumstances we currently face.
In Episode 39, “Challenge to Greatness”, Blenheim Partners' Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Naomi Simson, Founder of the leading online experience retailer RedBalloon and Co-Founder of The Big Red Group. She is also a Member of The University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Business and Economics Board and a Governor of The Research Foundation of the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. Naomi is the author of the best-selling books Live What You Love and Ready to Soar and was one of the Sharks in the television program Shark Tank Australia.Naomi talks us through beginnings of her business and brand, after biding her time in the corporate world, she started RedBalloon at home with a second hand computer and eventually became a household name and media personality. Last year, the Big Red Group delivered $850m worth of economic value to the community and looking forward, aims to serve an experience every second, somewhere on earth, by 2030.Greg and Naomi discuss the changes we are going through, from the evolution of technology to new working arrangements. In these times, Naomi presents us with the challenge to greatness: how we, as one community, can rally and support one another to bounce back stronger than ever.
In Episode 38, “Life Is Walking Through a Door”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson speaks to Michael Hawker AM, Non-Executive Director of Macquarie Group Ltd, Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd, BUPA Global Board, BUPA ANZ Group and Rugby World Cup Ltd. He is also a Board Member of the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.Michael was previously the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Insurance Australia Group Ltd and Chairman of Australian Rugby Union. He represented Australia in rugby union, wearing the green and gold 25 times as well as being Vice-Captain of the Wallabies.In an engaging discussion, Michael takes us through his journey from being an elite athlete to the challenges he faced as CEO of one of Australia’s most respected organisations. He talks to us about the changing landscapes in global perspectives and the complexities and disruptions at play through the lens of an international Board Director.Michael and Greg discuss leadership, particularly in a time of crisis and ambiguity, the conviction required in making the difficult decisions and stepping up when presented with the opportunity. Michael recalls the important moments in his career and why life is walking through a door.Note: This podcast was recorded on 19th March 2020.
In Episode 37, “The Risk of Not Making Change”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Tim Salt, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of GWA Group Ltd. Tim was previously the Managing Director for Diageo Australasia. He also held senior roles in various fast-moving consumer goods companies in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia, including Unilever, Lion Nathan, Campbell Arnott’s, Pepsi and Tetley Tea.In a world where competition is ruthless, Tim brings to light the importance for leaders to make bold decisions to stay ahead of the pack, drawing on his international experience and intense customer-focused DNA. Tim talks about his journey, the early days as an ASX-listed company CEO, walking the walk and seizing opportunities in the once traditional commercial and residential building market that is now undergoing significant shifts.Tim and Greg have a very open discussion about management theory versus reality and the need for leadership to communicate a clear and aligned purpose. Tim emphasises the importance of having the right people, the “game changers” on the bus, and how GWA’s cutting edge efforts in water solutions and sustainability are leading the world, so much so that they are saving the equivalent of Sydney Harbour’s volume of water each year.
In Episode 36, “Onwards and Upwards”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson speaks to Adrian Turner, a technologist and successful entrepreneur who was the Co-Founder of Borondi Group and Mocana Corporation, a smartphone and Internet of Things security company based in Silicon Valley. He was also the Founding CEO of CSIRO’s Data61, Australia’s largest data innovation network, and is Co-Chair of The Australian Cyber Security Growth Network. Adrian was the Chairman of Australia’s expat network, Advance.org, helping it grow from just over a thousand Australians in New York City to a network of 24,000 across 83 countries. He is also a member of the World Economic Forum Global Future Council on Digital Economy. A person who makes things happen, Adrian is currently working with Andrew Forrest and the Minderoo Foundation and leads the Minderoo Wildfire and Disaster Resilience Program.Adrian gives us a rare insight into his Silicon Valley experience and how it all came together, sharing stories about the challenges of raising capital, bootstrapping a company to move forward, and the beginnings of tech giants and their founders who are now household names. We learn about the speed of decision making, the incredible spirit of entrepreneurship and the acceptance of failure as part of the journey. Greg and Adrian discuss his return to Australia armed with ideas, the desire to pay it forward and the tremendous success of Data61.Adrian’s forward-thinking attitude has made him a pioneer in his industry, and in this discussion, we hear about his vision: his next venture and the new industries about to emerge. We also find out more about his role in the Minderoo Foundation to lead the development of a globally-relevant national blueprint for fire and disaster resilience, having fought the fires up close and how a crisis can be an opportunity in disguise.
In Episode 35, “It's All About Survival”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Richard Goyder AO, Chairman of Woodside Petroleum Ltd, Qantas Airways Ltd and the Australian Football League Commission. He is also the Chair of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Australia, the West Australian Symphony Orchestra and the Channel 7 Telethon Trust. Richard was previously the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Wesfarmers Ltd and the Chairman of the B20 Summit held in Australia.Richard and Greg discuss the big issues facing business, government and all members of society. We learn about the art of leadership, being bold in placing the big bets and why Richard considers surviving as his greatest achievement. In this candid conversation, he shares with us his experiences from growing up in country Western Australia, taking the helm at Wesfarmers and building a world class team, to the challenges of disruption and complexity facing Directors in the Boardroom.Richard talks about his long-term view on energy and his proud involvement with Qantas, the AFL and the Indigenous community. We also step back and hear of Richards drive across the Nullabor, his trips to the Kimberley, as he imparts advice to current and aspiring leaders and reminds us all not to lose sight of what is important in life.
In this special episode, “Unlocking Australian Grown Data Scientists”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Peter Clare, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of RoZetta Institute. Formerly the Capital Markets Cooperative Research Centre (CMCRC), RoZetta Institute is one of the world’s premier collaborative research centres. RoZetta Institute offers world-leading research infrastructure, data science and analytical expertise to global markets by bringing together industry participants and PhD students in Australia. With competitive costs, the organisation has the ability to translate questions into academic scientific inquiry, and then provide an answer in business terms. Since its inception in 2001, RoZetta Institute have answered over 2,400 significant business questions involving data.
In Episode 34, “Australia: A Strategy-Free Zone“, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to former Australian Chief of Army, Professor Peter Leahy AC. Peter is currently Chairman of ASX-listed Citadel Group Ltd, Director of Codan Ltd, Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd and is a member of the Advisory Boards of WarpForge Ltd and China Matters.Peter is also Chairman of Soldier On Australia, the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal Committee in the Australian Capital Territory, The Australian Student Veterans Association and the Australian International Military Games which brought the Invictus Games to Australia in 2018. Peter is a Professor and the foundation Director of the National Security Institute at the University of Canberra and in 2007 was appointed Companion of the Order of Australia.Peter encourages us, as Australians, to examine our current circumstances calling for a broad national debate on a number of key issues. He asks what values as a nation do we stand for, where we want to be in the long term, and what is our role as global citizens. He asks how is this reflected in our political and moral leadership and why are we void of coherent strategy and policy.In this confronting discussion, Peter and Greg delve deeper into leadership and what it actually means. Peter details the challenges he faced in leading Australia’s brave men and women, especially in the political side of war and conflict and looks back to what he feels is one of his deepest regrets from his time in the top rank, sharing very personal stories on a career that has witnessed the grotesque and the great of mankind. Peter covers the parallels between the military and business and leaves us filled with enormous optimism and pride in our country.
In Episode 33, “Never Too Late”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Judith Downes, Chair of Bank Australia and Non-Executive Director of Clean TeQ Holdings Ltd, ImpediMed Ltd and The Spinal Research Institute. She is also a member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values Governing Board Forum. Judith previously held senior executive roles at Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd and Alumina Ltd.Judith shares with us her unique story from the classroom to the boardroom. Starting as a high school maths teacher, she made the courageous decision to embark on a new journey and, as a thirty-five-year-old, found herself competing with fresh university graduates in the corporate world. Judith’s determination to succeed in a new sector and her rising through the ranks allowed her to play a crucial role in the pioneering of flexible working arrangements for both men and women in the workforce. She provides us with surprising insights about the transition and qualities one must have to be considered for and to be able to contribute to a Board. Judith encourages us to question the prevailing executive remuneration structure and presents her perspective on the meaning of diversity.In a world of a heightened sense of social responsibility and conscious decision-making, Judith and Greg discuss the concept of clean money and how Bank Australia leads this movement. Judith explains how fintech developments and increasingly competitive rates are turning boutique banks into more attractive alternatives in a new era for banking. Furthermore, she talks about the potential of open banking, the constant threat of cyber-attacks on banks, and why cryptocurrency still has a long way to go.
In Episode 32, “Putting the Planet First”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Geoff Brunsdon, Chairman of Sims Metal Management Ltd, APN Funds Management Ltd and MetLife Insurance Ltd.Geoff, Chairman of the world’s leading metal recycler, addresses what is arguably the most important generational issue of our time. He presents the potential of hydrogen economies, the value of having more forward-thinking Boards and highlights the necessity to shift to more sustainable systems, especially with changing attitudes and growing amount of waste the world produces. He cites the policies implemented by leading nations to drive this change and also showcases what Sims Metal Management is doing to lead and participate in the transition into a world with lower carbon emissions.As Chairman of a company with over two hundred facilities across twenty countries in five continents, Geoff shares with us his views on the role of the Board in the success of a business. From being passionate about the purpose of the company to having the right mentors, Geoff and Greg discuss the different facets of Directorship and the dangers of allowing negative behaviours to become entrenched and normalised in a company.In this discussion, Geoff brings a perspective of optimism at a time when the world and its leaders are facing crucial decisions. He talks about the importance of being able to integrate new technologies into existing businesses, without leaving behind sectors of society that may be marginalised as an effect of this shift. Furthermore, Geoff stresses the need for imagination and investment to usher in a new age of sustainable industrial economies.
In Episode 31, “Straight Up Courage”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Fred Schebesta, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Finder, a global comparison website. Today, the company operates in more than eighty countries, employs four hundred people and attracts ten million visits each month. Fred debuted in the Australian Financial Review’s Young Rich List in 2019 with a net worth of $193m.Having always embodied the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship, Fred shares with us stories of his relentless efforts in developing projects which led to the success of Finder. We hear about how the website came about, its purpose of improving people’s lives, what is next for the growing company and a potential public listing in the horizon.In the cutthroat industry of search engine optimisation, Fred discusses the decisions he made, including a run-in with technology giant Google, which almost brought the company to ruin. He talks about the value of having courage in taking risks, speaking up and making mistakes. Furthermore, Fred reveals to us a vision never before shared about the future of Australia. He elaborates his view of the Australian technology landscape and compares this to the more favourable conditions overseas, the ever-rising relevance of cryptocurrency and how we can protect our wealth.Finder have recently soft-launched the “Finder App”, the first in Australia to connect your accounts to provide you with insights, comparisons and opportunities to save. The app is available on different platforms and can be unlocked for early access through a code which will be revealed during the episode.
In Episode 30, “Finding a Voice in a World of Noise“,Blenheim Partners’Gregory Robinson speaks to the Managing Director of Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) Australia, James Taylor.Having been in a variety of industries, James always had a particular interest in media. After finishing his master’s degree, he started a role with the ABC and then headed overseas to work at British Telecom. After the Global Financial Crisis, James returned to Australia and worked at Deloitte, where he had the SBS as one of his clients. From there, he started his career in SBS with the finance team, becoming CFO, before being appointed Managing Director in October 2018.With respect to the constant evolution of the various facets of media, from fake news in social channels influencing public perceptions to preferences when it comes to how content is consumed, James shares his thoughts on these topics and explains how the SBS stays true to its unique purpose, and role as a public broadcaster.James takes pride in being part of an organisation that promotes unity and diversity by delivering a product which aims to inform, include and engage all Australians. SBS broadcasts in 68 languages through a variety of platforms.In this day and age of data and analytics, James and Greg discuss how leaders should take time to listen and think. In his role, James believes that the ability to hear and listen to a diversity of thoughts and ideas enables one to have a more profound impact in an organisation, and even society.
In Episode 29, “The World of Reality Has Its Limits; The World of Imagination is Boundless“,Blenheim Partners’Gregory Robinson speaks to Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of The Star Entertainment Group Ltd, Matt Bekier.Hailing from Saint Gall, Switzerland, Matt came from a family of academics. Initially unsure of which path to follow, he eventually pursued economics and finance, which led to a 15 year international career at McKinsey & Company and continued success with Tabcorp Holdings Ltd, then The Star Entertainment Group Ltd.Matt presents his thoughts on leadership and the facts. Having worked across an array of countries, he brings a unique perspective on the matter, believing that leadership is not about the “big personality”, it’s the willingness to commit to action and go over the trench with the team.Although challenges do exist, he is very optimistic about the future of the Australian economy and highlights some home truths. He also shares with us his insights into the opportunities that tourism offers and how, as a nation, we should take advantage of them before it’s too late.Furthermore, Greg and Matt converse on the significant potential around digital, analytics and artificial intelligence and what this means for the customer. They discuss the evolution of The Star Entertainment Group Ltd, the recent journey and exciting future as well as the macroeconomic and political environment that business face. Importantly throughout the discussion, we are presented with some differing views to conventional wisdom.
In Episode 28, “Nothing will work unless you do“,Blenheim Partners’Gregory Robinson speaks to Group Managing Director of Coca-Cola Amatil Ltd, Alison Watkins. Originating from the idyllic countryside of Tasmania, Alison, who once thought she would spend the rest of her life in Tasmania has become one of Australia’s most recognised business leaders.Soon after leaving Tasmania, she joined Management Consulting firm McKinsey & Company. It is here where the foundations of success were laid for Alison, and she was able to observe the key traits in what makes a successful leader. She reflects on her time at McKinsey and tells us that sometimes just doing your job isn’t enough and going that extra mile is what separates the good from the great.Alison shares with us an opportunity she was given at ANZ, and how taking that opportunity opened the doors to her executive career. She discusses some of the challenges she encountered as Chief Executive at GrainCorp and the roadblocks she faced at the hands of the Government. Furthermore, she talks of the future of Coca-Cola Amatil and its role as a socially responsible company.Greg and Alison also discuss the importance of risk-taking, the impact of social media, what she feels defines diversity, and whether or not it works, the effect the political landscape of Australia has on the economy and the significance on being willing and wanting to change.
In Episode 27, “Fear – What’s Fear?”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to one of Australia’s greatest entrepreneurs Gerry Harvey, Chairman of the well-known retail group, Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd. Under Gerry’s tenure, the business has become one of the most successful retailers with 195 franchised stores in Australia and 89 stores in New Zealand, Slovenia, Croatia, Ireland, Singapore and Malaysia with many more on the way.Beginning his career as a door to door vacuum cleaner salesman to becoming one of the most recognised and distinguished business leaders, Gerry shares with us the genesis and growth of Harvey Norman, sharing with us the many ups and downs he has had to face in order to thrive in one of the most competitive industries.In Part B of this two part series, Gerry discusses the state of retail, Australian and international politics, the economy, seizing opportunity, his passion for horse trading and the important things in life.
In Episode 27, “Fear – What’s Fear?”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to one of Australia’s greatest entrepreneurs Gerry Harvey, Chairman of the well-known retail group, Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd. Under Gerry’s tenure, the business has become one of the most successful retailers with 195 franchised stores in Australia and 89 stores in New Zealand, Slovenia, Croatia, Ireland, Singapore and Malaysia with many more on the way.Beginning his career as a door to door vacuum cleaner salesman to becoming one of the most recognised and distinguished business leaders, Gerry shares with us the genesis and growth of Harvey Norman, sharing with us the many ups and downs he has had to face in order to thrive in one of the most competitive industries.In Part A of this two part series, Gerry discusses what motivates him, what makes a good leader and businessman, his unique and successful partnership with the CEO and taking risk.
In Episode 26, “Bureaucracy – That Which Turns Energy Into Solid Waste”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Dr Peter Farrell AM, Founder and Chairman of ResMed Inc.Peter shares a personal story and how he took a chance and invested in continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), the first successful non-invasive treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. Starting from a garage in Australia he went on to found ResMed to help commercialise and allow scalable production of CPAP with a business that is now dual listed (ASX/NYSE), has a market cap of over US$19bn across 120 countries and still growing. “If we were in a marathon we are only doing our shoe laces up..that’s how much growth opportunity there is”.In this colourful and very thought provoking discussion, Peter pulls no punches. “Entrepreneurship has almost nothing to do with risk taking, it’s opportunity seeking..and innovation only occurs when somebody writes you a cheque”. He discusses the criteria and platform for business success and “the need for world-class people”. He also is to the point in regards to other business dynamics, including political correctness, diversity, social media, competition, the investment in technology and focus on product and customer.Peter shares his thoughts on climate change, arguing that the conditions we are experiencing today are the result of the natural process, as opposed to anthropogenic causes, claiming it to be “absolute nonsense”. Having resided in the United States for several years, Peter highlights the political atmosphere of the country, calling out those who he feels continually “virtue signal” with complete disregard for common sense breaking the back of American society.Lastly, Peter touches on global affairs including China, Brexit and how the Bureaucrats of Brussels have persistently road blocked British attempts to leave the European Union. He suggests the hard line politicians with back bone such as Margaret Thatcher are a rare breed and is concerned how Australia is positioning itself with an “insane” corporate tax rate of 30%. He questions who would manufacture in Australia when neighbouring countries are far more competitive and willing to incentivise business.This is an open conversation with views put forward by Peter to question and challenge. Not everyone will agree, some will agree to disagree but as Peter stresses, lets look at the facts and have the conversation.
In Episode 25, “The Long Game”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Robert Johanson, Chairman of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank. In a discussion not lacking in detail, Robert shares with us his story and explains to us his deep connection with the city of Bendigo and how this personal relationship with the once building society led to him becoming Chairman of his childhood local bank.Robert has had a distinguished career with over thirty years’ experience in corporate finance and investment banking, and has been involved in a wide array of capital markets transactions for several leading corporations.Robert delves deep into a discussion on the history of Australian banks and the transformation of banks into what they are today, pillars of our society. He discusses the relatively low importance the Australian bank had on the majority of the populace, instead an institution used by the rich and powerful. The changes made by the Hawke and Keating Governments allowed for the opening up of the financial system and as Robert claims was “one of the big revolutions” which allowed finance and credit to be available to almost all and hence forth, has been the lifeblood and a fundamental building block to our economic and social life.Robert also shares with us his concerns on the implications that the general availability of credit to all can have, citing the “great collapse” of 2007 and that this tragedy was “the roosters coming home to roost” which has given rise to increased regulatory intrusion that we wouldn’t of have imaged possible before. Robert also discusses the importance of utilising technology stating, “technology is the most important factor in banking for the next generation” and taking advantage of these new emerging technologies will help streamline the process for the customer and is key to future success.Lastly, Robert tells us that he feels it is the responsibility of his bank to give back to the local community and shares with us the belief that “banks don’t prosper when the communities in which they operate become impoverished. It’s only when they’re prosperous that banks prosper too”.
In Episode 24, “Breaking Down Conventional Wisdom”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Tim Sims AM, Managing Director and Founder of Pacific Equity Partners.In an open and fascinating discussion, Tim shares with us his story. From an early age he has been on the move, living in several poverty stricken nations and being exposed to much more than most and ultimately was determined to one day have the means to help those who are socially disadvantaged.Tim has had a distinguished business career, commencing in management consultancy with LEK before becoming the Chairman and Managing Director of Bain & Company's Australasian and African operations and a member of Bain & Company's Global Executive Committee. Advising many CEO’s, Tim shares with us some unique insights and encourages us to question some long held business principles as he discusses his transition to private equity and reveals the precepts of PE and dispels the myths.We explore the climate of the market, the significance of the board configuration in determining company performance, the opportunity to release the full potential of organisations from the bonds of the current model and the willingness to break down conventional wisdom to achieve so much more.Lastly, we cover Tim’s deep passion and obligation to help others through his philanthropic initiatives and how he has applied his expertise from the world of private equity into helping those in need.
In Episode 23, “The Board Dilemma”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Graham Bradley AM, Chairman of GrainCorp Ltd.Having been a management consultant for 12 years it was on the day of his retirement from McKinsey when Graham was given an opportunity which would lead to his eventual appointment as Chief Executive Officer of law firm, Blake Dawson Waldron. This appointment spring boarded Graham into the corporate world and he has thrived ever since, becoming a Non-Executive Chairman for GrainCorp Ltd, EnergyAustralia Holdings, HSBC Bank Australia and Virgin Australia International Holdings. He is also a Director of HongKong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd, GI Dynamics, and Stilmark Pty Ltd.With extensive experience on Boards, Graham shares his thoughts on what he feels is needed in today’s boards. Having been involved in the appointment of five Chief Executives he has a clear perspective on what he looks for, he states “We're not looking for the person who's going to be autocratic. We're not looking for someone who comes in with very fixed ideas about what's to be done and how to run the business. I think we're looking for someone who is a little more humble”.Graham goes on to discuss in depth the current composition of Australian boards and highlights the pros and cons of the current framework of an Australian Board. Graham also shares with us his belief in what is crucial to improve the quality of Boards, a greater need for “cognitive diversity” which Graham feels is more important than gender and ethnic diversity. He explains cognitive diversity as people who “bring a different life experience and therefore a different perspective to the business issues, who have had experience in different walks of life. But that isn't to say you go out and say well we need a poet, we need a musician and we need someone who is you know from totally different backgrounds.”Lastly, Graham touches on the real need for reflection and consideration around social license, and the need to consider long term consequences. He refers to the ASX guidelines revision draft and highlights the changing norms in today’s society in which companies are no longer solely judged by profit but by their social standing.
In Episode 22, “Going Beyond”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Stefanie Loader, current Non-Executive Director of St Barbara Ltd and Clean TeQ Ltd. Stefanie has previously been recognised as one of the Australian Financial Review 100 Women of influence and is a mining industry executive with broad international experience. She has worked in exploration, project evaluation and development, mining and corporate roles across seven countries and four continents. Stefanie was most recently Managing Director of Northparkes Copper and Gold Mine for CMOC International.In an open and thoughtful discussion, Stefanie reveals her story, one of an individual who has constantly gone against the grain in several aspects of life and has profited from doing so. Dialling in from country Australia, we learn how Stefanie commenced her career as a geologist, worked internationally, became the first woman Chairman of the NSW Minerals Council and now whilst pursuing a board career is also focused on the economic development of regional Australia.Lastly, we cover societal expectations for young women and the need for more than a shift in chat.
In Episode 21, “Failure Isn’t Fatal”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Rob Newman, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nearmap Ltd, a next generation digital content provider offering access to high resolution aerial imagery, city-scale 3D data sets and integrated geospatial tools.Starting his first business whilst still at University, Rob had his entrepreneurial spirit implanted in him at a young age. Being fascinated by technology in his youth, he was encouraged by his father to use that fascination and mix it with business, laying the foundations for his future endeavours.Rob highlights the fact that Australia “hasn't created a culture and a belief that we can be commercially successful with technology”. He believes that Australians have the capacity to excel in creating technology, but falter in our knowledge of how to market and sell technology. Instead, Australian’s either license, sell-out and go offshore too early. This leaves most of the value and experience offshore, robbing Australia of the opportunity to build a sustainable technology industry.In this very upbeat and passionate discussion, Rob offers a piece of advice for the Government regarding technology, “get out of the way”. He believes the continual shift in policy regarding innovation by the Australian Government is a huge detriment to the survival and growth of the industry. He states what is needed is for the Government to disassociate itself from start-ups and allow for free-enterprise to take hold.Lastly, Rob comments on understanding the importance of failure in future success. The numerous trials and tribulations he has gone through his career have left a distinct impression on him in which he understands without risk there can be no reward.
In Episode 20, “Expect Success”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Kathryn Fagg, Chair of Boral Ltd and Director of Incitec Pivot Ltd, Djerriwarrh Investments Ltd and CSIRO.Kathryn is one of those rare executives who has broken with tradition and worked across a range of industries and been highly successful. She commenced her career as a petroleum engineer for Esso Australia in what was a girl’s adventure in a man’s world before pursuing her interest as a problem solving junkie with McKinsey & Co. Wanting to further test herself, she then joined ANZ Banking Group in the roles of General Manager, Retail Banking, New Zealand leading over 5000 people, and later Managing Director, Banking Products. Kathryn then chose to return to her industrial roots and joined BHP Steel which became BlueScope Steel, becoming President of the Asia division, including Chair of Tata BlueScope Steel in India. She eventually returned to Australia and helped Linfox turnaround a division before making an earlier than expected career transition to the Boardroom. Kathryn has since built an impressive NED career serving on the board of the Reserve Bank of Australia, Chairman of Breast Cancer Network Australia and most recently was President of Chief Executive Women.Greg and Kathryn discuss a myriad of topics including business optimism in Australia, the composition of Boards, the need for more effective R&D, fear of innovation and what is real diversity. Kathryn expresses concern of the lack of females in executive roles, what needs to change and what numbers she would expect in the next ten years. She puts forward her concerns over the gap between the high numbers of educated females to the low number of females pursuing senior careers and poignantly questions the waste to the nation and the time for decisive leadership.Lastly and importantly, Kathryn shares with us her thoughts on taking risk and not being one of those disappointed with how things turned out. With her infectious confidence, Kathryn is “absolutely driven and expects to be successful” whilst at the same time taking the approach of “giving it a shot and if it doesn’t work out you’ll get another job”, a lesson for us all.
In Episode 19, “Cyber War: The ADF’s New Battleground”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Major General Marcus Thompson AM, Head of Information Warfare at the Australian Defence Force.In what is arguably recommended listening to all, Greg and Marcus discuss the disturbing increase of emerging cyber technologies, the significant impact an attack can have and what needs to be done to curb the heightened threat of cyber-attacks on Australia. Marcus stresses the importance of cyber security and reinforces the fact that everyone is at risk of cyber-attack.Business and social engagement is increasingly being conducted over network connected devices and as a result, so too has the scale of intrusion and threat. Marcus highlights the rewards of cyber-crime have become so great that Cyber criminals are often highly professional and very sophisticated, drawing on the resources of organised crime or rogue states with both businesses and individuals as their highly tempting targets.Marcus puts forward a worst case scenario in which he describes an attack which comes “at scale”. Explaining, “If a large scale attack can currently hit critical infrastructure, then we would be at serious risk, essential infrastructure such as air traffic control, financial systems and telecommunication services would all be severely hampered and cause a break down in society. What would happen if we couldn’t use our credit cards for a week, call, text or transfer funds?”.Lastly, Marcus highlights the effectiveness of a cyber-attack sharing an example of a team of only five cyber operators, five intelligence officers and two lawyers were able to unpack an entire force of soldiers performing war games by using their social media activity against them. Within less than 48 hours, the team had determined the unit names, the unit locations in the war game, in some cases unit intent and had seized the initiative and helped change the course and outcome of the hypothetical war.
In Episode 18, “It’s a Marathon Not a Sprint”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Kate McKenzie, Chief Executive Officer of Chorus Ltd.Greg dials across the Tasman to speak to Kate and discusses how by 2022, 87% of New Zealanders will have access to high speed fibre broadband and how the premise of wanting to keep New Zealand ahead of the curve has promoted a climate of innovation and digitisation. “Our vision is to keep New Zealand new and our purpose is to make New Zealand better”. The build is on time and on budget, giving people access to affordable and high quality broadband, which in turn is assisting in the growth and evolvement of the economy.Kate also discusses the increasing influence that the internet has on our lives and shares with us the opportunities and challenges she faces at Chorus. In particular, the benefits of co-operation and innovation between company and state as well as the responsibility that comes in having to deal with cyber criminals.As Chief Executive Officer, Kate shares her thoughts on leadership, the importance of personal character traits of optimism, curiosity, and courage. She also puts forward her thoughts on executives having at least one external role, a definition of diversity and the need to engender confidence in the up and coming executives.
In Episode 17, “The Go Gene”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak to Lindsay Partridge AM, Managing Director of Brickworks Ltd.A rare case in any part of the world, Lindsay Partridge has been at the helm of Brickworks for 20 years. Inheriting “five factories in two states”, Brickworks under Lindsay’s tenure has grown significantly in terms of size and profitability as its operations have become not only Australia-wide, but international, with its product range extending beyond bricks to roofing tiles, pavers, masonry, precast panels, timber products and activities expanding into property development.Lindsay and Greg discuss the current climate of business conditions within Australia, which Lindsay claims as “toxic” and that the path we are continuing down will lead to businesses taking manufacturing elsewhere due to an ever increasing cost of production. He shares how Brickworks has continued to grow through innovation and seizing new strategic opportunities, highlighting the ambitious growth strategy in the United States and the recent $151 million acquisition of Glen-Gery, America's fourth-largest brick manufacturer.Lastly, Greg and Lindsay discuss what makes a great CEO and the need for the “go gene”.
In Episode 16, “Aerotropolis – The Future of International Airports”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson is delighted to talk to Graham Millett, Chief Executive Officer of WSA Co. Graham has been given the monumental task of being at the reins for the construction of Western Sydney Airport. Graham brings extensive experience in the aviation industry as well as being a qualified pilot.Graham discusses the importance of looking outwards at other international airports in gaining a perspective of what elements create the perfect airport. He shares with Greg his plans on opening a carbon neutral airport with renewable energy, low wastage levels and plenty of recycling.Graham discusses the technologies he wants to completely immerse into the new Western Sydney airport with newer more advanced technologies than currently available at Kingsford Smith Airport which will ultimately help create a more relaxed and leisurely experience upon arriving at the airport. He shares with us his plan on working with Uber Elevate to create what sounds like “flying cars” to assist with congestion as well as time. Adding to Uber Elevate, he shares his vision of the airport having a strong public transport presence which again, will help lessen congestion and reduce pollution.He also stresses the importance of an airport being more than just an airport, his key goal is to create an Aerotropolis, which he defines as an aviation city. Graham and his team hope to create an airport which combines residential, commercial and industrial types of facilities, essentially becoming a hub of not just air travel but a hub of business.
In Episode 15, “You Can’t Survive Unless You're Disciplined”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson is delighted to talk to Michael Byrne, Managing Director of Toll Group.Michael brings to light an honest appraisal of not only himself but the business environment in which he is in. Michael speaks frankly about his role and the necessities and tough decisions that come with it and how as a leader you must be able to do two things, “think extremely long term and be in the absolute minutiae of the detail”.Beginning his career in logistics, Michael supported his mother’s transportation company which has led to a distinguished career working for well-known companies such as Mayne Nickless, Westgate, Linfox and now Toll. He explains how his near “monastic” life has helped him navigate his career in which he states that “he always wanted the job no one wanted”. Like most leaders, Michael is never happy with what he has achieved. He believes that it is the role of the Managing Director to continue to encourage others to break the barrier and continue to push boundaries and stay ahead of the continuously unpredictable world.Michael declares that he understands that “not everyone is going to agree with you” and wanting to please the 44,000 people who he leads at toll is counterproductive, instead it is his responsibility to pick those few around him who he deems fit to act as “acolytes” to help him move forward. Looking back at his time at Linfox he drives home the importance of “investing in people”, reinforcing this with his experiences with the Fox family who invested heavily in him leading to “enormous opportunities” and due to their well-placed confidence in him, has led him to the position he is in today.Lastly, Michael speaks frankly on how strategy is regarded in the mind of today’s businesses. He emphasises that strategy takes years to execute, two years at minimum, so to change strategy every year only hurts a business and consequently blurs any real long term objective and subverts strategy to tactics.
In Episode 14, “The Culture of Innovation and Embracing Change”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson is delighted to talk to Barry Irvin AM, Executive Chairman of Bega Cheese Limited.Barry’s story is inspiring. To say Barry has faced challenges is an understatement. In this very personal and illuminating discussion, Barry shares with us the human side of an ASX Chairman and how culture and innovation come from all parts of life and are not what is necessarily found in the business textbook or hung as the company mantra on the office walls.Through curiosity, hard work and as a result of difficult personal circumstances he found himself getting better acquainted with the Bega dairy Co-Op and soon realised it may be the avenue for his business career. Within a short period of time Barry became Chairman of Bega Cheese, and through his outstanding leadership has taken an organisation in very difficult circumstances, through a transformational journey that has seen it cemented as a powerhouse in the dairy industry where it holds 15% of the Australian retail cheese market exported to over 40 countries.Barry shares insights into his first day as leader of Bega Cheese and his first strategy meeting knowing that the competitors were circling saying “the competitive advantage we have is that we have no competitive advantage. Everybody will underestimate us. We will be on everybody's list to disappear”. Barry’s passion and willingness to take calculated risk comes through as does his ability to share his dream with competitors and question the status quo.In 2017 Bega announced a $460 million deal with Mondelez International to acquire most of their grocery and cheese business in Australia and New Zealand which included the iconic Australian product Vegemite as well as the license to manufacture Kraft branded cheese and peanut butter. These acquisitions add over $310 million in annual revenue and has moved Bega Cheese from a dairy-based company to a diversified consumer goods company.Today Barry is a central figure in the Australian Dairy and consumer goods industry and is not sitting back but wants to take on the global markets with Australian ingenuity and smarts.Barry has also played a key role in the development of Giant Steps, the charity that seeks to provide support to families, to improve understanding of autism in the wider community and to develop best practice among carers and professionals.
In Episode 13, “A Leader is a Dealer in Hope”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson is delighted to talk to Vik Bansal, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Cleanaway Waste Management Ltd.In an inspiring episode, Vik lays the groundwork for what makes success. He reinforces this notion by sharing his own story and how the risks he took which others declined, ultimately spring boarded him on a global career. His enthusiastic and relentless drive has established him as a leader of the highest degree.Vik brings a spirited approach to leadership, his deep thinking and front facing style to the “moments of truth” is evident throughout Greg and Vik’s discussion. Sustainability is at the forefront of Vik’s agenda, he states “there is nothing Cleanaway does every single minute, every day, which does not help the planet”.He explains that he and Cleanaway are at the “pointy edge” of something critical for the human species and shares his belief that a clear national waste and climate policy is needed to help cement sustainability in the minds of all Australian households, an opportunity worthy of pursuit.Vik is concerned that leadership is highly underestimated in today’s society and needs to be encouraged. Vik puts forward the quintessential trait of a leader is humility and that honesty is the best medicine. In a thought provoking discussion, Vik forces us to really think and provides key insights to a philosophy which has allowed him to bring about unprecedented results in what most others felt was a lost cause.
In Episode 12, “Aspirational Ambition”, Gregory Robinson is delighted to talk with Mike Smith OBE. Mike Smith has had a distinguished career in the banking sector and shares the lessons he has learned whilst climbing his way up the executive ladder.Mike discusses his early career working at HSBC where an invitation to play a game of rugby led to him getting a job at the Hong Kong branch of HSBC. Initially uninformed about banking Mike rallied and went on to lead a team of 200, at the age of 22.Mike also recalls his time working in Argentina where he took it upon himself to investigate corruption which led to an attempt on his life whilst driving home. Understandably an event like this would send most people packing but as a testament to his character, Mike decided to stay in Argentina, saying that “It’s a question of if I was ready to give in, and I was not ready to give in”.Mike also discusses how a shared vision of the opportunity to expand into Asia led him to become the Chief Executive Officer of ANZ. He highlights the intricacies of what it was like to be the Head of a multinational bank and highlights the difficulties in opening up ANZ to the Asian market. Ever the contrarian, Mike pushed ahead with his belief in expansion into Asia.Greg and Mike also deliberate on the current economic conditions that the world today faces. Issues such as Brexit, China and President Trump come to light as well as how society as a whole is changing today, especially the dramatic increase in the influence of social media, with Mike stating that “we pander to issues which create noise on social media”.
In Episode 11, “Instinct – The Difference Between a Leader and a Follower”, Gregory Robinson is delighted to talk to Major General Fergus McLachlan, AO of the Australian Army.Gus shares his thoughts on modern leadership in complex disrupted organisations through his lens as Commander of Forces Command, with responsibility for 36,000 personnel which equates to 85% of the Australian Army. Especially interesting are his insights into similarities and differences in leadership between business and the military, and the learnings that each can gain from the other.In his role as Commander of Forces Command, Gus has a diverse set of responsibilities, comparable to many Chief Executives, but operating in a different context. Gus presents his insights as previous Head of Modernisation and Strategic Planning, where he had responsibility for developing the future operating concepts that are keeping Australia ahead of potential threat organisations. These initiatives can lead to $20-30bn investments over the life of major capabilities and may include the creation of a digital “internet of things” linking all elements of the organisation, a redesign of the Army structure to accommodate the growth of cyber and electronic warfare capabilities and the creation of an Army innovation system.As Senior Campaign Planner Coalition Forces Afghanistan 2013, he had a key role for the multi-national coalition involved in the stabilisation of Afghanistan following the removal of the Taliban regime. The role spanned strategy development to provide force drawdown and force structure options to the President of the United States of America to the apportionment of development resources and mentoring of Afghan partner forces. The coalition comprised over 30 nations, each with different national objectives and planning was done in a dynamic and often lethal environment.
In Episode 10, “Redefining Leadership… A Higher Purpose”, Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak with Georgette Nicholas, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Genworth Mortgage Insurance Australia Ltd.Greg and Georgette converse on a number of topics including the redefinition of leadership, the importance of values, a broader approach to diversity and inclusion, the higher purpose to work, and how difficult it is for a female to get ahead. Georgette shares her personal experience in the face of adversity, highlighting that diversity and inclusion is much broader than just gender and that leadership is far more than the “last out the door” approach to work.Georgette discusses the fundamental difference in business between Australia and the United States, emphasising how the United States culture is more willing to take risks. She highlights the challenges around short-termism, the need for the Board and the Executive team to be firmly aligned to the strategy, the conversation around remuneration and impact and asks are you living the values of the corporation and yourself. Ultimately Georgette believes in passion, resilience, humility and leaving the world better than when she arrived.
In Episode 9, “The Death of Trust And Its Resurrection”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak with Ian Elliot, one of Australia’s leading marketing minds.Ian learned the marketing ropes from the ground up. He began as a mail boy in Australia’s biggest advertising agency, George Patterson, and progressed to be its Chairman and CEO. Along the way he helped create some memorable and valuable brands like the Optus ‘YES’ campaign. Ian retired at just 48 years old, before transitioning to senior ASX listed NED and Chair roles.The informative and highly entertaining interview with Ian covers not just his personal and career journey but touches on some very important and prescient topics. He hits the high points of his best-selling book ‘Stop Bitching, Start Pitching’.Trust is at the heart of brand building and business success. Ian outlines examples of how he believes we are living in a period where trust has never before been breached on so many fronts. The potential commercial, economic and social implications are far reaching and disturbing. His references to the recent Royal Commission pulls no punches. Ian cements his views on trust by sharing his own stories of his experiences around the world in which trust can be earned in the most subtle of ways, whilst also presenting his proprietary formula for measuring trust expressed as a mathematical equation.‘Creating Wow Moments’ for clients is another topic Ian maintains is the key to successful profits. ‘I’m more interested in traction than transaction’ he says, ‘because repeat purchases by sticky loyal customers is the key to margin growth’. How he develops these outstanding moments of truth is fascinating.EVERYONE who hears this podcast will make a note of The Elliot Trust Formula and use it to measure the trustworthiness of those they need to rely upon. From staff to employers, to suppliers to shareholders, friends and extended family members. Most importantly he asks us to judge our own score for trustworthiness and use that to embark on a journey of continuous improvement.
In Episode 8, “The Time For Change – Some Questioning Needed”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak with David Gonski AC, one of Australia’s most respected business leaders, company directors and Chairman of ANZ Banking Group Ltd.David and Gregory discuss the current state of ASX Boards, their role, structure and composition. David suggests an alternative model to meet market and stakeholder expectations. He presents a framework similar to what exists in Germany, namely the two-tier model, where you have a Supervisory and a Management Board to provide all the requirements that we aspire to today.They cover ANZ’s international history and expansion as well as the current strategy and focus on “agile”. David highlights the relationship between business and Government and how interaction could be improved. David puts forward his views on Gonski 1.0, 2.0 and “3.0” and is asked as a nation, do we place enough value on education?To this day, David still sees himself as an immigrant and believes very strongly in the value of immigration, offering some personal insight in keeping ones dreams alive, his relentless pursuit to prove himself each day and “give back” to the country. David shares the key learnings gained from the various mentors in his life and the legacy he would like to leave.In a highly engaging discussion, David encourages the need for questioning and the time for change.
In episode 7, “It's About Attitude, Service And Brand”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson talks to John Borghetti AO, current Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Virgin Australia Holdings Ltd, one of Australia's leading airlines and the largest airline by fleet size to use the Virgin brand. In this podcast, John and Greg discuss the early years of John’s career and how a simple image of Rio de Janeiro in his youth led him on a path that would place him at the forefront of the Australian airline industry.John discusses his career in the airline industry, starting at the mailroom and working his way up to the senior ranks of the Qantas hierarchy, and finally in 2010 becoming Head of Virgin Australia.They cover the key challenges that John had to face as CEO of Virgin and the evolution of Aircraft in the last 50 years, and how through increasingly more effective technology we are able to travel the world in shorter times.John delves into his younger years, working at his father’s coffee shop who was “always out front” to greet and welcome customers, which helped shape John’s philosophy for years to come.John discusses how he felt it was necessary to give his personal phone number to all Virgin Australia pilots on his first day, stating that he feels “they have the best seat of the house” in how the business is run.“Everyone fly’s through an aluminium tube, the one thing that makes the difference is the people who are inside those tubes and how they interact with you, simply looking someone in the eye, a smile and calling someone by their name is all you need”.
In Episode 6, “The Street Smart CEO”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson is delighted to speak with Brendon Cook, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of oOh! Media, a leading out-of-home advertising business in Australia and New Zealand. Brendon shares his story, from a dismal HSC result to founding and leading a world recognised business.Brendon and Gregory discuss the various stages of oOh! Media including iterations of the business name over the last 39 years. He highlights the pivotal moments in the Company’s history from their first big client to the investors that believed in the Company’s vision for the future. They cover research, innovation and technology on the global stage and how Brendon has shaped a business to achieve targets eight years out. He and Gregory discuss the evolution of the industry and how out-of-home advertising has remained effective throughout the year's thanks to cutting-edge technology. Brendon looks to the future of the out-of-home advertising industry and how to lead a company which blends property, real estate, logistics, advertising, media and technology.Brendon has continuously elevated oOh! Media to a new level that's far beyond what out-of-home was back when he bluffed his way through his first interview. He emphasises his personal commitment to learning and growth as well as developing a company culture with the same focus. He and Gregory discuss the changing needs of the business from hiring young talent that wanted to “have a go” to data architects and data scientists. Brendon hones in on the importance of a vision and developing a culture where your staff are happy to go to work.From taking on Google and Facebook to advertising for driverless cars, Brendon leaves you with the feeling that anything is possible with the right attitude and a little perseverance.
In Episode 5, “Inspiring Others To Follow You”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson is delighted to talk with Danny Gilbert, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Gilbert + Tobin, a leading independent corporate law firm and a key player in the Australian legal market.Danny shares his journey, from when he left a leading law firm in 1988 to establish the firm with fellow Lawyer Tony Tobin. Over the next 30 years, Gilbert + Tobin built an outstanding reputation taking market share from the major well established law firms, many of which had been in practice for over 100 years and would not have thought it possible for a new brand to emerge and challenge them. Today, Gilbert + Tobin employs 700 people, including 80 Partners with one of the highest proportions of female partners of any major Australian law firm and are acknowledged as a pioneer in providing pro bono services.Starting life in country NSW, he followed the advice of his school teacher and moved to Sydney to study law, the vehicle which would later allow him to transcend from lawyer to entrepreneur and successful businessman. Danny placed an early bet that Gilbert & Tobin should build a profile as the experts in technology, telecommunications and media. Soon the firm became renowned for their progressive approach to legal issues and client service.Danny also had a burning desire from day one to give back with an unswerving commitment to social justice. Danny realised if he was to make a difference and walk the walk he had to generate revenue. It was obvious he needed to grow the firm if he was to significantly give and did so with vigour and dedication. Not everyone makes it, and Danny has faced setbacks but sees his role increasingly as the disrupter balancing the desire to grow and the need to be a good corporate citizen.Danny also discusses his views on the need to amend the constitution and recognise the indigenous people. He highlights the standing of business in the Australian community and shares responsibility for the damage being done by banks as a former Director of one of the four major banks. Danny highlights the role of the political parties, the relationship with business and a personal disappointment in regards to the ABC.Danny has created a spirit in the organisation of relentless energy and an open environment with people who want to achieve, creating a top tier firm. Gregory asks Danny what he feels are the essential qualities for success and where he actually spends his time. Is Leadership really as simple as inspiring others to follow you?In a topical and engaging discussion Danny sums his success in two words, “Back Yourself”.
In Episode 4, “Leadership – It’s all about the Team”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson is delighted to talk with Roger Corbett AO, a highly respected business leader about his 50 year career in retail starting on the Grace Brothers loading dock floor and progressing to become the Chief Executive Officer of Woolworths, leaving it as the leading supermarket retailer in Australia and in the top echelon of retailers in the world.Roger shares his thoughts on the journey, punctuated with real-world experiences. He discusses his thoughts about taking risks, missing out on opportunities, having confidence in one’s ability, the importance of family and those that help you along the way.Gregory gains Roger’s views on the erosion of trust in Australian business and the Banking Royal Commission. Roger challenges the effectiveness of today’s Boards, in particular that of Chairmen and highlights concerns about the role of business as well as the ACCC and BCA in the national debate. He feels the silence of business is a genuine cause for worry.Gregory asks Roger about the transition from Chief Executive Officer to Director and in particular the lessons learned as Chairman at Fairfax during a time of tremendous technological change and the impact of digital on the newspaper. Were the Board and Executive Team able to appreciate the business opportunity and threat, and the thinking at the time?Gregory and Roger also consider the collective impact of digital technology and of cynicism in society and examine the broader picture of political leadership including Donald Trump and the United States. Roger discusses the Australian political landscape and the unrealised potential Australian Governments have presided over. He shares his disappointment in the most recent Prime Minister and current Government in what he feels was a lost opportunity at a critical point of Australia’s economic history, the lack of willingness to introduce tax reform.Just as Socrates felt that it was necessary to create a tension in the mind so that individuals could rise from the bondage of myths and half-truths to the unfettered realm of creative analysis and objective appraisal, we feltimpelled to present a podcast that keeps you informed of the real discussions happening behind closed doors and along the corridors of power.
In this Episode, Artificial Intelligence & The Future of Work, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson talks to Michael Priddis, an internationally recognised thought leader on A.I. and the Future of Work. They discuss the impact emerging technologies will have on global economies, business sectors, current workforce structure and the broader society.Michael has addressed both corporate and government leaders all over the world on this critical topic. In the last two years this has included engagements in New Delhi, Cape Town, Paris, Toronto, San Francisco, Singapore and Sydney. He is often invited to contribute on A.I. robotics and advancing technologies in international think tanks as well as industry and news media.As Chief Executive Officer of Faethm, Michael has overseen the development of the ground breaking product, Faethm.ai, its successful launch in October 2017 and rapid adoption by major multinational companies and governments across the globe to understand the economic impact of technological and digital disruption.Michael is one of five external members of the global mining and resources giant BHP’s Science and Innovation Council. He has also been asked to participate at the World Economic Forum's "Summer Davos" event.Michael shares his insights during a robust discussion where he debunks the falsehoods surrounding the fear of A.I. and provides the good and bad news for all of us at work, the winners and the losers, the pace of change and the need for serious action. (41.31)
Australian of the Year (2017), Professor Alan Mackay-Sim talks to Blenheim Partner’s Gregory Robinson about a shocking personal injury that led him to his ground-breaking work in stem cell research.As the Director of the National Centre for Adult Stem Cell Research for a decade, Alan’s research has championed the use of stem cells and led to major advances in understanding the biological bases of brain disorders and diseases such as Schizophrenia and Parkinson’s.In 2014 a Polish medical team put into practice Alan’s research on a man who had become paralysed from the chest down after repeated stab wounds to the back. They achieved the world’s first successful restoration of mobility with the man now walking. This was a giant step in science and has given hope to millions with spinal cord injuries.Throughout his career Alan has been prepared to take risks and to challenge historical wisdom. It’s an inspirational story from a modern-day pioneer that covers innovation, risk versus reward, leadership and how to keep people motivated – a powerful lesson in courage, determination and resilience for all business leaders.
“Is Diversity Winning in the Boardroom and Executive Ranks”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson and Deborah Thomas discuss the current diversity statistics in Australian business and ask why it’s not gaining momentum and why the change is minimal and the pace is glacial at the top-end. Together they examine the current Boardroom dynamics and question why some young executives are choosing to leave promising careers for Non-Executive Director roles and are Boards and Senior Executives really maximising the tremendous opportunity for authentic diversity of thought. In a no- nonsense and thought provocative conversation they ask the tough questions.As executive search professionals they are concerned the traditional succession and diversity planning processes are failing to unearth and promote the outstanding potential in the market and build the future executive pipeline effectively. They discuss and present solutions in this very important topic.