Ai Group Podcasts

Brent Ferguson, Ai Group's Head of National Workplace Relations Policy, joins Yoness Blackmore, Principal Advisor Workplace Relations Policy, to discuss the latest Significant Workplace Relations Issues report. This podcast provides an update on some of the key issues outlined in the report: the Fair Work Commission's Working from home model term proceedings, and the annual wage review the passing of the Workplace Gender Equality Amendment (Setting Gender Equality Targets) Bill 2024 Government consultations and announcements on restraint of trade / non-compete clauses

Listen in to get an amazing insight into how one family has gone taken an idea from start-up to international business in just 10 years. Huds & Toke is a pet food company based on the Sunshine Coast, with a great story to tell. Co-founder Russell Gibbons provides a masterclass on the keys to building vertically integrated businesses with complex omni-channels pathways to market. This is a must-listen episode for ALL business managers. It's a great insight into taking an idea and a market opportunity to a successful business. Podcast host James Scotland does a fascinating deep dive into the business with Russell. They discuss: • The market opportunity, and the owner's clear-eyed ability to verbalise the target market segment: both domestically and in the U.S. • An insight into the global pet food market and how Huds & Toke adds value to the target sector. • Innovative ways to create and build a brand that accurately reflects the values of the business – including a creative and surprising approach to deciding on a company name (it's a magical and heart-warming story) • How to make a husband-and-wife team work as a strong management team, and how to make building a business a lifestyle. • The decision protocols around the selection of channels to market that suit the business and adds value (including an amazing story of Krispy Kreme dog treats) • How not to be blinded by ‘dazzling lights' and ‘big opportunities' that aren't as good as they initially seem. • The keys to creating a vertically integrated business from regional Australia • The constant challenge of cashflow, including an excellent approach to using debt collection as a way to create strong relationships with customers. • The challenge of sustainable product packaging • And much much more. A wonderful masterclass of business management today. Not to be missed.

Today episode is an engaging café style chat with two supply chain specialists: Host James Scotland sits down with his old mate Andy Brightmore for a wandering and endearing chat on all things supply chain. Listen in to hear the two have another of their usual fun and unstructured wanderings through the issues of business and life today. Topics covered this time include: • Why is Andy no longer considered one of the ‘youngest and the brightest'? (It's a sad story) • Andy's fascinating multi-industry, multi-national, multi-discipline supply chain career. • Andy and James' learnings of supply chain management from the covid and post-covid years. • The importance of relationships, resilience, and good people in building sustainable supply chains. • The emerging challenge of a world economy that seems to be turning once again. • The generational differences and what it means for markets and supply chains ( is there one?) • And much more. If you love a good chat, if supply chain and business improvements interest you, this episode is for you.

Everyone's favourite CEO returns to the podcast to talk us through the current issue facing the Australian economy, and what impact could they have on business operations. Innes delivers a masterclass in macro-economics covering such as issues as - The upcoming Federal election: when will it be held and who will win. - The latest on the significant changes to Workplace Relations laws, why Ai Group is running an extensive marketing campaign to highlight the issues and what businesses need to do to not get caught out. - Why the conduct of the CFMEU is unacceptable, why Ai Group's has strongly called for the construction part of the union to be deregistered. And what this means for businesses in other sector. - Why the new ‘Safeguarding Australian Military Secretes' Act is having an immediate and worrisome impact on business resulting in unexpected (and unacceptable) consequences. Innes calls this ‘complete over -reach by government). - The impact of ongoing inflation and why this is creating an economy operating at different speeds and with different success - The impact of geopolitics and other global activity on the economy and the uncertainty this is causing businesses in Australian and around the world. - What's going on with Australian Ports and why efficiency and productivity needs to be increased - Why there is not ‘magic bullet' to solving the challenges of the Australian economy, especially in terms of Digitalisation and Decarbonisation - And much more more. This is a MUST-LISTEN episode, especially for businesspeople keen to get deep insights intothe challenges facing Australia.. and what to do about it.

In this episode, host James Scotland ask Adam Blake: ‘How do we, in Australia, build resilient and sustainable supply chains in and from Australia'. Blundstone Australia is a 150-year, family-owned, Hobart-based, globally-successful boot and apparel manufacturer. The company sells over 3 million pairs of boots annually to multiple markets in over 70 countries. It has a well-structured brand story and complex supply chain across the world. James and Adam address many meaty topics in this wide-ranging and insightful conversations including: • Achieving successful rapid international growth using innovative business design and organisational structures. • Breaking all the rules to achieve stunning global reach and success from a traditional Tasmanian manufacturing business. • Redesigning the business to become truly consumer-centric. • Managing seasonal global demand, highly-variable supply requirements and ‘lumpy' cash flow challenges. • The excitement of ever-increasing Black Friday 4-day online sales, and why not to visit the Distribution Centre. • The lessons of ESG, the digitalisation of the business, implementing new ERP systems, managing global pandemics and riding the roller coaster of constant rapid growth. • The future of the business and the challenges ahead. • Sponsoring V8 supercars and the Hobart Stadium. • And much more... Adam is a leading global supply chain and brand design specialist, and an engaging and insightful conversationist. This is an episode not to be missed.

In this episode, Jim Wilson mounts a passionate and cogent argument for the global shipping industry, especially in support of the industry's performance during the Covid years. James and Jim discuss the current issues of the industry and look to the future. Issues discussed include: Recent and future expectations of container pricing The issues for shipping in the Red Sea, the Suez Canal and the Panama Canal How the global container industry works The issues with Port operations around the world, and how Australia port compare to similar operations around the world The two also have an extended conversation regarding the active decarbonisation of the shipping industry, and how the industry is leading the way. A fascinating conversation full of insights and information on this critical industry to the Australian economy. Well worth a listen.

Digitalisation is a core subject of this podcast, and today we deep dive into digital disruption in supplier engagement and business matching. James and guest Tim Walmsley investigate the challenge of building a successful digitalised business from start-up. It's a great discussion, and Tim provides lots of good insights including: • The LEAN start-up approach and why it works • The need to train your A.I. platform to operate the way you want it to • The challenge of matching different terminology across industry sectors • How to be flexible and scale digital operations for surge activity • The international opportunities in technology for Australian businesses • And much more This episode provides rare and fascinating insights into digitalization. Highly recommended!

What's the China market really like? What's it like to start a business in China? To be a supplier? To be a buyer? What's the difference between an Italian craftsman and a Chinese worker? Are we ahead or behind the average Chinese worker in terms of technology use and adoption? In this episode, James chats with China expert Susan Heffernan about her decades of first-hand experience in the market, as a business owner and as a senior manager. It's a fascinating chat with an insightful and fascinating business founder and manager. China is a critical market for Australia and it's growing every year. Official figures report China is already Australia's largest two-way trading partner, accounting for 27% of our overall global goods and services trade in 2023. And it keeps growing: The two-way trade with China increased by 9.2% last year and now totals $326.9 billion every year. So there's no doubt we as supply chain managers, as business improvement managers, as business development managers, even just as managers, need to be keenly interested and aware of China. This episode provides rare and fascinating insights into an important market for Australian businesses. Recommended!

What's the difference between the Circular Economy and Circular Supply Chains? In this episode, supply chain specialist Brendan O'Keefe addresses the difference between the two and provides a raft of insights in the way forward. James and Brendan speak of the importance of moving past the take/make/use/ dispose mentality into a less wasteful, less inefficient /more sustainable approach to business and industry. Brendan explains the need to look past ‘product life' and instead see the life of the initial resource and material as the critical value in the equation. Many other issues are discussed including the role and importance of product design and product packaging in circular supply chains, and the developments and progress of the issue around the world.

A special edition of Supply Circles to recognise and celebrate National Reconciliation Week 2024. Our guest is Daniel Joinbee and this is a ‘do-not-miss' episode. In this fascinating café-style chat, James and Daniel talk about professional procurement, the role of indigenous businesses in supply chain, the tips for being a preferred supplier, the joy of being a proud Australian working overseas and in Military, as well as a proud Gunggangji man, and his plans to launch a satellite into space from Australia. Daniel shares a wide range of his experiences, and thoughts and insights including: - His views on how to be a good supplier. - An explanation of IPP and the possible confusion of two similar acronyms in Indigenous Procurement Policy. - What it means to be a product Gunggangji man and a proud Australian. - The lessons he learned from his many varied role during a fascinating career, including Air Traffic Control, international contract procurement, strategic vs transactional, supply and much more. - The lessons learned by completing an Executive MBA. - His plans to put a satellite into space from Australia. Daniel also shares some personal insights into the right- and the wrong way to engage with good quality indigenous businesses, and the keys to promoting your business to buyers, indigenous or not. This is a wonderful episode; every business person in Australia should have a listen. Strongly recommended.

Business is a human-centred endeavour, and the one thing you can guarantee about people is that they change constantly. So one of the challenges for businesspeople is to keep up-to- date with the shifting needs and attitudes of your customers and stakeholders. In this episode, James and Leanne discuss ways to engage the multiple relationships within your supply chain eco-system, how to get the best from the relationships and how to ensure your ideas and goals are understood, accepted and implemented. In an engaging conversation James and Leanne share stories and anecdotes and seek ways to be better at managing ‘our customers'. Leanne says we need to ask ourselves, our customers and our suppliers: “What is it that they need to achieve, to achieve success? And as a business, if we can align our solutions to that, then we're creating products and services that are very sticky and very desired by that audience.” About Leanne Leanne Farnworth, the Founder of LAMP, brings over 25 years of design and business expertise. As an awarded design leader and entrepreneur, she has achieved transformational results, including her work with Deloitte in the Federal Government's Entrepreneurs' Programme where she advised and facilitated 120+ businesses across Australia. Leanne's design-led approach is highly sought after by diverse, high-performing businesses across industry sectors. She empowers leadership teams to cultivate customer-focused, purpose-driven strategies that fuel innovation and create value. Connect to Leanne on Linked In here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannefarnworth/

In this episode, we hear a story of Australia, of Australian manufacturing, of innovation and change, of resilience and adaptability. And of the ups and downs of family ownership as the business grows, adapts, and changes from generation to generation. It's not a sexy business or a sexy range of products. But it's the story of persistence, resilience and change. It's the story of Everhard Industries, a 98 year-old business in Geebung, Brisbane, Queensland: an Australian family-owned manufacturer of Drainage, Wastewater and Environmental solutions for residential and commercial applications. Everard has been the long-time market leader in laundry units and sinks for the home. Back in 1926, Everhard pioneered the original concrete laundry tub in Queensland – a key part of homes in the suburbs and in the bush. From this humble beginning, the company has built itself into a modern manufacturer and importer of environmentally conscious materials and sustainable manufacturing techniques. Gina Boyce- Rowe is a direct descendant of the founder of the business and now has the top job, having taken over the Chair from her mum; She shares with us the story of the business, the challenges, the big decisions to change, and her role as Chair. She also tells us how she went from being a critical care nurse to Chair of one of Queensland's best manufacturers. It's a fascinating story- one not to be missed.

To coincide with Anzac Day, this episode unpacks the concerning emerging issue for ex-Defence personnel in your business and your supply chain. The Defence Amendment (Safeguarding Australia's Military Secrets) Bill 2023 came into law in Australia on the 8th April 2024. The act has two arms: the first impacts ex-Defence personnel and ex-Department of Defence staff, the second affects ‘Australian citizens'. Both carry penalties up to 20 years imprisonment. At face value, the need to safeguard Australian military secrets makes total sense- it's a no-brainer… but as the episode's guest explains, the Act has raised concerns in the business community. To many, it looks like it achieved ‘The Law of Unexpected Consequences'. And today's guest is not only perfect for the task at hand, she's also a fascinating guest in her own right: Rhiannon Willis is an emerging leader in her field, a highly qualified lawyer. She has a history in procurement and business, and she is extremely knowledgeable in the impacts of this new regulation. James and Rhiannon have an engaging and interesting conversation. Well worth a listen. In this episode, James learns about Rhiannon (an interesting tale) and her career to date (also fascinating) and then the two deep dive into the new regulations: • What is it? • How will it impact individuals and companies? • What it might mean for the hiring of highly trained ex-Defence people? • The possible implications for your upstream and downstream supply chains. • And more. James and Rhiannon also discuss other current legal issue such as cyber-security and ESG. And we find out of the connection between Rhiannon and England and Wales. To find out more about SAMS, here are some helpful links: • Here's the main defence page explaining SAMS. • Here's the parliament site which sets out the history of the legislative process for this Act and includes explanatory memoranda, links to the various versions of the Bill and ministerial speeches on the intended impact of the Bill. • Here's the link to the Act itself.

Generative AI is here and is a major game-changer for business and supply chains. In this episode, A.I. specialist Dave Phung guides us through the confusing and often challenging task of understanding the opportunities and challenges of AI in the workplace, and in implementing it. Dave tells us what AI can do for your business and how to help staff accept it. He also addresses the elephants in the room and clarifies many of the concerns that currently exist with the new technology. A good episode with lots of chunky nuggets of insights and learning. About Dave Phung: • Dave is the Chief Disruptor at GPTStrategic, where he leads the implementation of Generative AI strategies for clients. With a career spanning over two decades, he has a track record of blending human-centered design with disruptive technology to deliver impactful projects for organizations such as GE, Fidelity Investments, Australian Open, Penfolds Wine, US Golf Association, Sony Playstation, and many others. • Connect with Dave on LinkedIn at https://au.linkedin.com/in/davidphung Here's the link to the new Ai Group podcast DBrief: Episode 1 https://www.aigroup.com.au/news/podcasts/2024/d-brief/episode-1-march-2024/

Ai Group's head of National Workplace Relations Policy, Brent Ferguson, speaks to Thomas Oriti on ABC NewsRadio, discussing Ai Group's submission to the Fair Work Commission on the minimum wage.

Sarah returns to provide clarity to the confusing plethora of announcements coming out of government regarding the Defence Industry. With her usual insightful commentary Sarah explains what's going on, what is means for business and what we should do next to capture the opportunity. In a wide-ranging and engaging conversation, Sarah explains the many recent announcements and what they provide for businesses: • The review of Australian Navy surface fleet review (Enhanced Lethality Surface Combatant review ) • The important (to business) ‘The Defence Industry Development Review' • The plans for building a very large SovereignDefence Ship Building capability • The challenges of creating sovereign supply chains with truly Australian SMEs • The concerns regarding skills shortage in STEM • The steps businesses should take to get ready for the emerging Defence Industry • And much more. This is a fascinating, important, and timely conversation and one not to be missed.

Innovation is a fascinating and often misunderstood concept when it comes to business and business operations, but not for today's guest, innovation specialist David Martin. Host James Scotland gets into an engaging and enjoyable deep dive with David on what innovation means for business and what businesses need to do to thrive through innovation. The two address the good parts and the challenges of business innovation, and what it means for the future of business. It's a rare opportunity to go deep into the issue with an excellent communicator and experienced operator in the sector. Among many issues, the two discuss: - What is innovation? - Is R&D the same as innovation? - The exciting options of the semiconductor industry - Is Australia good at innovation? - What does innovation mean for boards of directors, and for managers? - What are the ‘emerging industries'? - How do businesses become innovative? - What is leadership at the speed of leadership? - Innovation in asset management or in soft assets? What's next? - The joy of precedented vs unprecedented. - And much, much more… This is a fascinating and timely conversation and one not to be missed.

Leann Webb is widely regarded the undisputed pioneer of the bid management industry in Australia. With over 20 years in the industry, Lean has a deep expertise in managing bid responses for major and mega project bids, particularly in the construction, infrastructure, transport, and defence sectors. She also helps small-to-medium sized enterprises to successfully respond to bids and tenders. In conversation with host James Scotland Leanne shares the secret to successful bidding and tendering. She also shares the pitfalls and common mistakes. The market is slowing in Australia and most businesses are experiencing softening demand and sales. This is a timely conversation and one not to be missed.

This is the final episode of ‘What on Earth...' for now. Over the summer break we did a strategic review and we've decided to take a break for now- we've covered the key issues many times and a short break will give provide an opportunity for the issues to develop before we re-analyse. The good news is the monthly ‘What on Earth….' will be replaced by a new monthly podcast addressing the broad issues of Industry Development and Industry Policy. Stay tuned. In this last episode, Paul is unavailable so James and Tennant look at the year ahead in the transition to the post carbon Australia. • Tennant gives a detailed review of the UN Climate Conference in Dubai, what he learnt by attending and what it means for Australai. • The two discuss the Federal Government plans for a Climate Related Final Disclosure reporting process. • The proposal for Fuel Efficiency Standard for Australia and National Emission Targets. • And much more. It's a fascinating episode and well worth the listen. Thank you for your ongoing support of our program. It's been a pleasure to bring you our opinions and analysis. Let's talk again, soon.

Brand is business; business is brand' with David Schloeffel, Chief Enabling Officer, Brandness. In this insightful episode, David talks about using the company brand to build resilience into the business. “Brand is your biggest asset and it's critical to the success of any business, regardless of size”, he tells host James Scotland. In this fascinating conversation, David reveals: • why a brand is essential to operations and supply lines; • how the expectations and performance level on B2B (business-to-business) companies have changed as a result of our experiences with B2C (business-to-consumer) companies; • why it's important to ensure brand management is across the whole business and isn't just a boardroom strategy; • how to carry out a brand analysis that includes customers, suppliers and staff and • how to transform from being product-based to brand-based — and why it's important.  Find out more about David on LinkedIn.

In this first episode of 2024 James speaks with his colleague at Ai Group, the Director of Research and Economics Dr Jeff Wilson. In a fascinating and wide-ranging conversation, James and Jeff talk through the lessons from last year and the current economic trends framing the year ahead. They then discuss the findings of the recently released report ‘Australian Industry Outlook 2024'. This annual report is an analysis and summary of the opinions of what is ahead in 2024 according to 300 business leaders in Australia. The official release of the report says: After three years of pandemic-induced disruptions and volatility, Australian industry enjoyed much more stable conditions in 2023. But as business leaders look out into the new year, they have real worries about uncertainty and stagnation in 2024. This year, more than 300 senior leaders from across Australia responded to our eleventh annual Industry Expectations Survey. The report, due for release on 22 January, is a must-read resource to understand how business leaders plan to tackle the opportunities and challenges facing the Australian economy. It provides critical insights into how they anticipate the coming year will evolve. Industry leaders go into 2024 with significantly more caution and concern than 2023. They have identified uncertainty, ongoing cost pressures, labour shortages and weakening demand as the key challenges for the coming year. It's a fascinating report full of insights, and Jeff and James walk us through the key learnings. Its an episode that will help listeners prepare their business for the year ahead To find out more about the various reports from Jeff's team and to get details of the webinar on the details of the CEO report, head over to www.aigroup.com.au

Louise McGrath has been working in international trade for decades and now represents Ai Group and Australian industry at global industry meetings around the world. In this engaging conversation James and Louise share humorous stories and insights into the keys to effective cross-cultural communication in business, supply chains and international meetings. Louise also share her thoughts on the current state of international trade and what it means for Australian business. Industry topics discussed include: • The current effectiveness of Free Trade Agreement's • The implications for Australian business with the USA Inflation Reduction Act • Insights into international trade meetings • The future of digital trade documents. The two have a lively discussion on international communication including • The impact of the power differential • The importance of words vs intent in communications • An understanding of socials norms and being positive • And much more. James and Louise are clearly good at communicating with each other and with the world at large, and this is a fun conversation of serious topics. Worth a listen.

For this last episode of the year James chats with Kerryn Fewster, the CEO of Change 2020 about the year that's been, the year ahead and the leadership issues of both: the two dissect multiple questions like: What have we learnt? what has changed? What do we need to do to prepare for the year ahead?. They investigate the generational change underway in the workplace, the impact of Work from Home, A.I. and other new ways of collaborating and achieving. And they discuss how to holiday, how to rest, rest, recover and rebu ng episode on Leadership, Rest and Reset. It's a lovely chat to finish another great year of engaging chats and conversations. ild. It's a fascinati Spoiler Alert

In this episode- that last of 2023, the three amigos review the big issues of the last month, the upcoming events of note in the transition, and they review the year that was. Lots of things are discussed, including the upcoming Global Climate Change meeting in Dubai, the possibility of a Carbon Border Adjustment Tax for Australia and other countries, and much more. Another fascinating conversation, well worth a listen.

Supply Chain Infrastructure in Australia is a big issue for ‘Supply Circles' listeners so its good to speak with the renowned Michael Kilgariff on what is happening, and why. Michael is a senior executive in this sector with over two decades of high level experience. He's been the National Director Energy Infrastructure Policy & Government Affairs for Energy Networks Association, he was the Managing Director of the Australian Logistics Councils for 9 years and he recently finished a successful 5 year stint as the CEO of Roads Australia. So he's the perfect person to ask about Australian supply chain infrastructure. Host James Scotland and Michael are old friends and both are very experienced. In this episode they have a relaxed yet insightful and entertaining chat about the current state of, and the future of: Australian port operations, airports, highways and roads. The broader picture of supply chain infrastructure. They discuss the implications of the recent High Court decision to strike down the planned state tax for Electric Vehicles, and what this is and other issues mean for challenge of funding urgently needed transport infrastructure. And they discuss a lot more With his vast experience in the sector, Michael provides insightful observations into the challenges, the opportunities and the future of Australia's supply chain infrastructure. This is a fascinating episode, full of crunchy insights and learnings. To contact Michael or find out more, head over to https://www.kilgariffadvisory.com/

In this episode host James Scotland dives headfirst into the story of what Electric Vehicles will mean for your business. It's a story of the sustainable supply chains of the future. A story of change, of current confusion, of coming regulations for business. It's a story of digitalisation, of disruption, and of course, the decarbonisation of your business. Most of all, it's a way of seeing new ‘smart' vehicles in a new light. To help me unpack the supply chain story of Electric Vehicles and your business, James is joined by Ross De Rango, the head of energy and infrastructure at the Electric Vehicles council of Australia. Together they unpack the issue from many sides including… • Why Electric Vehicles (EVS)? Are they really better than Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs)? • How do EVs compare to ICEs in terms of overall costs, running and operating costs, value for money, impact on th e environment? • While EVs take the fun out of driving? • What about range anxiety of EVs? It is a real thing' • Will business and shopping centre and other buildings need to add car chargers to their business? How many? • Will the manufacturing of EVs happen in Australia • How smart are smart cars? • And much more Ross's tip for understanding the advantages of EVs? Hire one and take it for a drive.

Another busy month in the transition, and there's a lot to discuss. This month the three amigos consider: - Will the transition deadline result in inflation in decarbonise resources? - The structure of future electricity grids and the role of microgrids in providing electricity. - The High Court's decision to reject Victoria's EV tax and what it means for all cars not just EVs. - The new $2billion Hydrogen Headstart program - And so much more…. Another informative and insightful discussion from the team- well worth a listen.

Today's guest is not a bot… he's a real person with a lot of knowledge of bots. And Artificial Intelligence. And Automation. And so much more. Matt explains how he discovered AI and went on to make it, and automation, his chosen career path. He says Artificial Intelligence and its huge potential for improved efficiency is his favourite topic and this is evident in this conversation with show host James Scotland. In a wide ranging and fascinating conversation, James and Matt discuss how business managers should approach A.I., automation and much more. • What is A.I. and what is generative Artificial Intelligence? • Why is there an inherent bias in AI and Chat GPT and how do businesses overcome it? • How does AI and Blockchain work together? • How employees and A.I. will work together, to create improved efficiency. • What is the future of work when we factor in generative AI, automation and blockchain? • What business operators should do today to start implementing A.I expertise. • Why A.I. will provide incredible productivity gains for businesses IF it is mastered by the operators. Matt says, “AI will not replace humans, but it might replace humans who cannot operate AI”. Matt also introduces us to a new Microsoft product being released on the 1st of November called Microsoft 365 Copilot. He says it's a gamechanger for business and will be the business buzz for 2024. This is a topic requested by listeners and is timely and important. Well worth a listen. To find out more about Matt and The Missing Link, head over to: https://www.themissinglink.com.au/, or connect with Matt via LinkedIn.

Host James Scotland ask John Grimes for the keys to creating sustainable businesses in todays economy. John mounts a strong argument for moving your business to electric power via solar and batteries. He explains the numbers and the opportunities for business owners – this is an episode full of exciting insights and business ‘nuggets' James and John discuss electrification of business, of vehicles and of society, and they have a look at business opportunities in the infrastructure build of the transition. John also explains his view of the new economics of renewables, of power storage and of government support: It adds up to a great opportunity for business improvement. Other issues discussed in this wide ranging discussion include • The electrification of China • Opportunities from the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act • What is Smart Energy • Is nuclear an option? • Australia's unique role and opportunity in renewable energy systems • And much more. Find out more about John and the Smart Energy Council at www.smartenergy.org.au About John Grimes: John Grimes was appointed Chief Executive in 2008. He started his career as an officer in the Air Force and went on to found and grow a number of companies, including a startup company he took to a successful listing on the ASX with a market capitalisation in excess of $30m. His most recent company was in the environmental sector with operations in Australia, the US and the Middle East.

In this month's ‘What on Earth...' James, Tennant and Paul again examine the ‘issues of the day for the last month' as we in Australia and globally transition to the post-carbon emissions business environment. The podcast asks ‘What on Earth'…. is going at a policy, economy, global and at the enterprise level as we race to Net Zero carbon requirements for our businesses and for the economy. Topics covered this month include: • China's apparent new and emerging economic growth strategy, and what it might mean for Australia and for the transition, • The need to diversify our economy, especially as we and the world transition away from carbon-based fuel and export products, • Why business is pushing back in the U.K. and elsewhere as politicians get skittish about carbon targets and/or are faced with changes brought about by political concerns and geo-politics (delaying just add cost and politician pain down the line) • What's happening with Australian energy, petrol and electricity prices and possible cost trends for business (Spoiler Alert: According to Tennant, prices are likely to ‘drop to still-historic highs-quite a trick!) • The now-rapid arrival of EVs in Australia and what is means for existing and planned infrastructure: and what this means for critical minerals, vehicle charging times and locations and other issues, • Victoria government's announcements regarding gas connections to new homes, and what it means for individuals and business, • Why there is a need for policy discipline in electricity prices going forward, • And the need to see the emerging hydrogen industry as a total value chain, and how it compares to existing fuel and energy value chains. Another jam packed episode of crunchy transition and business issues- the three amigos never fail to deliver non-stop thought-provoking observations and insights. Well worth a listen!

In this episode we address the important emerging supply chain and business sustainability issue: The management concept of Product Stewardship….. The centrepiece of all supply chains is a good product but what actually is a ‘good' product in the modern world. It's a complex question with many of aspects to it, including ESG requirements, maximum value, minimal waste, through life support and end-of -life waste management In this episode James speak with John Gertsakis of the Product Stewardship Centre of Excellence to learn about Product Stewardship and how it helps businesses to build sustainable and resilient supply chains. Many issues are covered including: • The role of research in product design, • System wide thinking in product management, • The potency of good product and system design, • What good looks like, • The Waste Hierarchy and why its important, • The role of the balance sheet in whole of life design, • The keys to preventative solutions, • The bottom life improvements in good product design and so much more.

I Chose to look the other way - by Don Merrell by Ai Group

This is the story of the mouse that roared. Of the small manufacturing business in a suburb in Adelaide that went from one product, one major customer to a well-respected, innovative, complex supply chain with a global brand in just 25 years. Still headquartered at the same location in South Australian the business now has operations, sales people and distribution channels throughout the world. Anthony Kittel has been at the helm for the whole time, and in this podcast he shares his story and REDARC's amazing journey, its commitment to research and operational excellence, and his plans for the future. In a wide-ranging and insightful interview, James and Anthony discuss, among many other things • the role of R&D in rapid growth • the structure of effective strategic plans • the connection between new product development and existing manufacturing capacity • innovative approaches to selecting the ‘right' staff • insights into being a successful supplier as well as being a successful buyer, and • Anthony insights into what keeps him up at night and what gets him out of bed in the morning. James explains to Anthony the connection between Julia Roberts and ‘Pretty Woman' and ‘Back to the Future'. It a conversation that is well worth a listen: a rare chance to hear firsthand from a world class business builder and supply chain operator.

With Tennant in China for High Level Dialogue meetings, Paul and James address a range of current issues. As James says; “it's the podcast that discusses the transitioning economy issues of the day, each month. “ This episodes contains interesting and insightful analysis and comment on a number of issues including: • The challenges and opportunities of the Pilbara region of Western Australia, an area often called ‘ The global mining industry's version of Silicon Valley' • Why the Pilbara can be the global model for decarbonisation • Why clusters are a useful structure for the transition, and how it works. • The opportunities for manufacturing in the sustainment of the Hydrogen Industry in the decades ahead. • The cost of the transition and the role of global government subsidy and funding support in presenting challenges • The release of Australia's first national Electric Vehicle strategy and what it means for business. A jam packed episode of insights and opinions. Worth a listen.

Innes Willox On ABC NewsRadio 733am 4.9.23 by Ai Group

Louise McGrath has been working in international trade for decades and now represents Ai Group and Australian industry at global industry meetings around the world. In this engaging conversation James and Louise share humorous stories and insights into the keys to effective cross-cultural communication in business, supply chains and international meetings. Louise also share her thoughts on the current state of international trade and what it means for Australian business. Industry topics discussed include: • The current effectiveness of Free Trade Agreement's • The implications for Australian business with the USA Inflation Reduction Act • Insights into international trade meetings • The future of digital trade documents. The two have a lively discussion on international communication including • The impact of the power differential • The importance of words vs intent in communications • An understanding of socials norms and being positive • And much more. James and Louise are clearly good at communicating with each other and with the world at large, and this is a fun conversation of serious topics. Worth a listen.

In this 2nd episode focusing on the SME section of supply chains, James chats with Mal Hiley, the Managing Director of Baker & Provan, a successful Western Sydney engineering and services company with an international supply line. Baker & Provan, a family owned business have specialised in the manufacture and supply of quality engineering products for over 75 years. It is now a significant and long-term supplier to the Defence Industry. Still based in St Marys in a 6,500sq metre workshop and employing over 80 fulltime staff, the company is a well-respected, successful modern engineering company suppling large buyers across the nation. James and Mal discuss the challenges of managing SMEs and the keys to managing demanding buyers, and in sustaining international suppliers. Mal opens up on the difficulties and the processes needed to sustain success in demanding industries, including: • The structure and history of the business. • The challenges of sovereign capability and the role Bake & Provan is playing in increasing onshore capability. • The difference between manufacturing and sustainment as a Defence supplier. • Managing long term contracts with Defence and the Defence Industry. • Developing relationships with international OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), to provide local sustainment support. • Importance of face-to-face relationships with suppliers, buyers and staff. • And much more. Mal is in the unique position of managing a multi-pronged, long supply line, fine tolerance engineering business that has been successful for generations before him. His insights and experiences are well worth hearing.

This month, James, Tennant and Paul have another wide-ranging conversation full of fascinating insights and observations. The podcast's goal of unpacking this current major issues and the progress of the transitioning economy was certainly achieved this month… Issues covered are many including: • The emergence of clearer thinking in the green hydrogen industry • Opportunities and challenges for Australian businesses with the U.S. multi-billion dollar Inflation Reduction Act • Why is China emerging as a key Electric Vehicle markets around the world. • The emerging thinking of supply chain management in critical minerals and energy systems- multiple options for creating new supply chains and new economics: Close to energy source or close to end market? • What is meant by ‘scaling' green hydrogen': Paul explains. • The ‘Connecting Green Hydrogen' conference and hat Paul learnt by attending. • The ‘Developing North Australia' conference and what Tennant learnt by attending • And much more. Another fascinating discussion- not to be missed

Our guest is Lucy Finlay. James and Lucy have a wonderful chat about the tension and healthy conflict of ….innovative new products hitting the market quickly and…. the need to ensure standards are in place for these new products. Lucy is the Standards and Regulations Manager for Schneider Electric and the perfect person to ask. Think of this: We buy exciting new products almost every day: smart phones, smart TVs, new vehicles, air fryers, complicated and next gen hair dryers and toasters and water bottles, even ‘smart' blenders: many of these products did not exist a few years ago. Certainly the ‘smart' part didn't… … Yet we expect all of these products to perform as promised at purchase…. To meet this expectation, specific manufacturing standards and quality standards must be developed, agreed and implemented. Quickly, efficiently, and accurately. It's a fascinating supply chain challenge of our time. Lucy explains the difficulties, the challenges and the competing issues of managing fast innovation and agreed standards . It's a great chat!

Host James Scotland chats with the Chief Executive of Australian Industry Group, Innes Willox and learns of the organisation's 150 years of continuous operation as the peak industry organisation supporting Australian business and industry. The conversation covers the history, the role and the importance of industry organisations,and considers the enormous changes to business and the Australian community in the last 150 years. Innes explains his role as CEO, and the changes that have happened in the 11 years of his tenure. The conversation turns to the present and to the future. Innes shares his thoughts and insights into many of the current issues facing Australian business including: • The current skills shortages and the jobs of the future. • The role of education in the future of business. • Digitalisation, the interaction of humans and machines, and cyber security. • The importance of increased productivity in the economy and in business. • The challenge of improving ports, current infrastructure and the required infrastructure of the post-carbon economy • Australia and the rest of the world, and Innes role in the B20: the business conference of the G20 nations. • And much more. James find out the origin of Innes name, and Innes shares many personal anecdotes and stories. The Australian Industry Group has been an influential voice for 150 years, as Australia transitioned from the first industrial revolution to the fourth, through two world wars, depressions and recessions, and through every stage of Australia's history to date. It is perfectly positioned to assist business as we face the challenge of building sustainable and resilient supply chains in Australia and with the world. This podcast is a rare opportunity to hear the CEO of Ai Group speak in a relaxed and insightful conversation, and to hear his thoughts on the past, the present and the future especially in terms of the 3Ds of the Supply Circles podcst - digitalisaton, decarbonisation and disruptions.

With Paul on holidays in Scotland, James and Tennant discuss the multiple emerging opportunities in the infrastructure build of the transition, both nationally and internationally. Tennant starts by laying out the challenge of establishing goals and targets for the new economy before moving on to the opportunities from the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act, the critical mineral industry and the ‘growth and opportunities' section of the new ‘National Net Zero Authority' in Australia. Tennant then explains the new policy discussion on the economic issues of ‘carbon leakage' across nations and industry.

In this episode, host James Scotland ask Adam Blake: ‘How do we, in Australia, build resilient and sustainable supply chains in and from Australia'. Blundstone is a 150-year, family-owned, Hobart-based, globally-successful boot and apparel manufacturer. The company sells over 3 million pairs of boots annually to multiple markets in over 70 countries. It has a well-structured brand story and complex supply chain across the world. James and Adam address many meaty topics in this wide-ranging and insightful conversations including: - Achieving successful rapid international growth using innovative business design and organisational structures. - Breaking all the rules to achieve stunning global reach and success from a traditional Tasmanian manufacturing business. - Redesigning the business to become truly consumer-centric. - Managing seasonal global demand, highly-variable supply requirements and ‘lumpy' cash flow challenges. - The excitement of ever-increasing Black Friday 4-day online sales, and why not to visit the Distribution Centre. - The lessons of ESG, the digitalisation of the business, implementing new ERP systems, managing global pandemics and riding the roller coaster of constant rapid growth. - The future of the business and the challenges ahead. - Sponsoring V8 supercars and the Hobart Stadium. - And much more…. Adam is a leading global supply chain and brand design specialist, and an engaging and insightful conversationist. This is an episode not to be missed.

James chats with two leading Australian supply chain academics and explores climate change, value chains, value-creation risk assessments, resilient business models and several other current and emerging issues. Lots of good discussion points including recognising investment as the answer to value risk, the urgency of recognising and identifying multiple energy sources in your business, and the rapid change happening in the market place as consumers start demanding climate/ post carbon activities. Melissa and Renu also describe university life today and the attitude and the focus of the next generation leaders of supply chain. It's a good chat, please enjoy!

With our podcast host James Scotland on holidays overseas our podcast today is the re-release of the audition podcast James recorded with a former Ai Group employee. Whilst there are technical difficulties, its an engaging interview. Here's the synopsis: What exactly is the circular economy, and where is it at in Australia today? Is circular economy the answer to our current supply chain issues in Australia? And what's the future of circular economy as we transition to a Net Zero carbon emissions future? James and Rachael take a deep dive into these and other questions and come up with surprising and refreshing insights. Rachael challenges some of the current business thinking on circular economy, contends there is an urgency for action, and challenges James to join the journey, not just comment from the sidelines. It's a lively and interesting conversation.

In this episode, the three amigos address the question: What on Earth do businesses in Australia need to understand about the transition to the post carbon economy? After some detailed assessments of the current structures, three conclusions are reached: 1. Energy and carbon are deeply entrenched in our day-to-day lives and in our businesses, there is a large transition underway 2. The transition is happening at the enterprise level, state level, national level and international level. If businesses want to keep trading, they will need to start transitioning: the economy is not going to wait for you. 3. Governments across the country are establishing the architecture and the business enabling programs to assist owners and managers to start the transition. This is an episode full of usable and timely information for business and enterprise leaders everywhere. It's worth a listen. For details of the websites mentioned in the episode, please contact james.scotland@aigroup.com.au

According to global research over 53 per cent of managers were left ‘burnt out' in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many leaders and managers have realised it's important to take occasional extended career breaks: to refresh, re-centre, renew. In this episode, podcast host James Scotland delves into the concept of a mid-career sabbatical. He chats with senior executive Melissa Anderson who is at the end of her ‘year away' from the grind of daily work life and an extended fast-paced career. He asks her how she came to the decision to take a break, why she needed to do it, what happened and what she learnt. It an entertaining and engaging conversation, addressing one of the most important issue of leadership and management today. The episode is fun, insightful and thought-provoking. Well worth a listen.

Welcome to a very special episode. Our guest is Ann Ackerson, the global head of procurement for BAE Systems. For those who don't know, BAE Systems is a high-tech global defence Prime Contractor. It provides some of the world's most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions. With a workforce of over 93,000 people in 40 countries the company develops, manufactures, and support products and systems that deliver high-end military capability and increased national security. So to have the Head of Procurement on the show is a big deal, and makes for a very special episode. And the conversation between host James Scotland and Ann lives up to expectations. James and Ann discuss: • How does one become the global Head of Procurement for a large organisation, and what's it like? • The latest world views on multiple key procurement issues • The lessons from Covid and other disruptions • The world of Defence Industry and innovation • ESG and the impact on business • What does a ‘great' supplier look like • How does BAE build relationship with its key suppliers • And so much more. This conversation is one for the ages: a rare opportunity to hear first-hand from a world-leading global Supply Chain specialist. Happy listening . Ann Ackerson: Ann is a member of the BAE Systems Inc. Senior Leadership Team and chair of the BAE Systems plc Global Supply Chain Council. Ann has more than three decades of strategic sourcing, material management, and global supply chain leadership experience she acquired while working for multi-billion dollar manufacturing and services companies To learn more about BAE Systems: https://www.baesystems.com/en-aus/home

In this episode, the three amigos catch up on the events of the past months and the emerging issues in the transitioning economy. In a typically wide ranging conversation, several issues are addressed including: • Recent federal government policies and announcements and what it means for business. • Some thoughts on nuclear energy in Australia. ( it's complex) • The pathway to Net Zero and what it means. • Is Gas the transitioning energy source? • What's happening with EVs and Fuel Efficiency Standards? • Will El Nino impact our businesses (again)? Listen in as the three amigos share fascinating thoughts and insights, and seek to provide clarity to the constant announcements.

Sam Matandos is the thoughtful and forthright CEO of Sydney-based precision engineering company Moxon Industries. Under Sam's guidance during challenging time, Moxon Industries has continued to expand in the rail, civil and defence supply chains. Sam and Moxon are experienced and successful suppliers to demanding structured supply chains. Sam says the growth and the success is due to its hard-fought reputation for delivering as promised. In this episode, James and Sam discuss the challenges of the Australian business sector, of being a small manufacturer in Australia, and of ways to address these challenges to achieve continued business growth. Sam challenges some of the assumptions and the reporting on small business in Australia and provides thought-providing responses to James' questions. Well worth a listen.

In this episode we talk Operational Excellence. Our host , James Scotland says: “What if I told you there are ways to improve your operational performance, reduce your costs, improve your quality and increase your bottom line while also improving your major buyer relationships? Impossible? Today's guest - Tim McLean, the founder of TXM Lean Solutions- knows how. In just 20 years Tim and his partners have built a global business by assisting businesses all over the world to do just that. James and Tim talk Lean, Total Quality Management, the Toyota Way, the Supply Chain Bullwhip Effect and much more. They also talk about trade show and how to ensure attendance converts to invoice. This episode is a practical conversation on business and supply chain improvement. It's a great addition to the knowledge bank being created by this podcast series. About Tim McLean In 2004, Tim McLean left a successful Operations Leadership career to form TXM with the aim of helping manufacturing and supply chain companies transform their operations. Tim was joined by leading Lean coach Anthony Clyne in 2008 and experienced operations and business leader, Ron Spiteri in 2012. Since 2004, TXM has grown to become a leading international Operational Excellence and Lean consulting company with offices in Australia, China, Europe, the UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada and projects in more than 25 countries globally.

It's been a busy month of big announcement for Australia's transitioning economy. In this episode, the three amigos unpack the announcements, and question what it means for Australian businesses. • What international opportunities in the transitioning economy are emerging for Australian businesses, especially in the infrastructure build? What can we learn from the trailblazers in this area? • What does the recently announced ‘National Reconstruction Fund' bring to business? What is it all about and how does it fit into the transition to post-carbon? • What will the Safeguard Mechanism mean for the transition and for business? • And why hasn't Nuclear Energy become a bigger part of the post-carbon equation? This is a fact-filled and fascinating episode, and quite a fun listen despite the weighty topics. The three amigos are ‘on fire' and ‘on topic': It's well worth a listen.