Menzies Leadership Forum

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good, host Michelle Bloom speaks with Jennifer Robertson about the board's role in sustaining cultural and ethical integrity, beyond compliance. Jennifer discusses the importance of boards aligning culture with corporate purpose and values, shifting from “can we” to “should we” in contemporary governance. She shares insights on how boards can influence organisational culture, including examples from the recent Qantas culture report, and the role of leadership in driving cultural change. Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Jennifer Robertson from Board Matters

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good, host Michelle Bloom speaks with Quentin Jones from Culture Capital about addressing and transforming toxic cultures. Quentin explores the role of ethical leadership, transparency, and accountability in turning around toxic environments. He discusses why focusing only on “bad apples” doesn't solve the issue and how leaders can create sustainable change by addressing the wider organisational culture and relational dynamics. Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Quentin Jones from Culture Capital 

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good podcast, host Michelle Bloom speaks to Matt Howell, the former Chief Executive Officer of Tomago Aluminium. Matt shares the incredible turnaround story of Tomago, an aluminium smelter in the Hunter Valley, NSW, where he served as CEO for nine years. He discusses the cultural change journey that not only resulted in significant financial returns but also improved safety standards to world-class levels, increased efficiency, and enhanced working conditions for employees. This transformation created the largest and most efficient aluminium smelter in Australasia, all underpinned by the value of care. Matt shares how he and the executive team led both the culture and business turnaround, the lessons learned, and key insights on how to architect and cultivate a culture for the greater good. Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Matt Howell from Nystar

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good, host Michelle Bloom speaks with Siobhan Toohill, a corporate sustainability expert, about strategies that benefit shareholders, customers, and society. Siobhan explores the alignment of ethical business practices and profitability, the rise of ESG factors in investment decisions, and how sustainability influences organisational culture. She also discusses the moral obligation of businesses to address social justice issues and the impact on corporate culture. Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Siobhan Toohill a corporate sustainability specialist 

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good, host Michelle Bloom speaks with Amie Wallis, Chief of People and Culture at the Australian Olympic Committee, about their cultural transformation journey over the past 8 years. Facing significant challenges, the AOC conducted a comprehensive review leading to reforms in governance, people development, transparency, and accountability. The result? A cultural shift that has positively impacted both the organisation and the broader Olympic community. Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Amie Wallis from the Australian Olympics Committee

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good podcast, host Michelle Bloom speaks to Professor Kristy Muir is the CEO of the Paul Ramsay Foundation and a Professor of Social Policy at UNSW Sydney Business School on how leaders can cultivate and embed social value into their organisational cultures.   There's a growing societal expectation that organisations – and organisational leaders – should take a more active role in creating social value, not just for shareholders or customers, but for everyone, particularly those most marginalised.   Given trust is at the core of social license to operate and building social value, we will explore the erosion of trust by many Australian organisations and what leaders can do to increase the trust, confidence and the social value of their organisations.   Kristy shares her insights on how senior leaders need to balance their fiduciary responsibility, keeping the organisational purpose at the core, the role of values and how to balance social responsibility in economically difficult times.   Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Kristy Muir from Paul Ramsay Foundation

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good podcast, host Michelle Bloom speaks to Somali Cerise on the art and science of measuring culture. We explore the tools and metrics available to measure culture, off the shelf options, versus a research approach and if it is indeed possible to measure organisational culture at all. We discuss if we are all on the same page in what we mean by culture, what is being measured and the purpose and value of measurement.   Shareholders, investors, regulators are all interested in understanding the culture of an organisation, as poor culture very often leads to poor outcomes for investors and consumers, it impacts on the integrity of the Australian financial markets, and erodes investor, consumer trust and confidence, impacting the wider eco system in which it operates.   Somali shares her practical experience in how to measure and understand this mercurial concept of culture.  Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Somali Cerise from Elizabeth Broderick & Co

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good podcast, host Michelle Bloom speaks to Yolanda Saiz, CEO of St Vinnies, NSW about the foundational role that leadership plays in defining organisational culture. Culture is most typically defined as “the way we do things around here”. It is communicated in several ways through symbols and language such how people dress and talk to each other. It is also communicated through the organisational values that are deemed good and inform how people behave and make decisions. But culture is also shaped by the unspoken agreements, the shadow values within the organisation that drive unintended behaviours and consequences and really determine “the way things get done around here.   Yolanda shares some examples of how she and the leadership team at St Vinnies have cultivated a culture for the greater good. She also shares the transformational journey of the “Vinnie's stores”, underpinned by the “no mission without margin” mantra.   Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Yolanda Saiz from St Vinnies

Episode eight: In this episode of Leadership: Navigating Complexity, host Dr. Aiden M.A. Thornton is joined by a distinguished panel of leadership scholars and practitioners to explore the evolving challenges of leadership in an era of rapid change. Featuring Professor David V. Day, Professor Samuel Wilson, Dr. Kerry Elliott, and strategist Scott Ko, the discussion delves into key issues such as social divisiveness, polarized thinking, epistemic complexity, and burnout in a world of constant disruption. The conversation examines the struggle to align diverse worldviews, the limitations of binary thinking and quick fixes, and the role of connection and shared meaning in fostering progress. With insights into the transformative impact of AI on leadership, this episode offers thought-provoking perspectives for leaders, strategists, and anyone navigating complexity in an ever-changing world. Dr Aiden M. A. Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Professor David V. Day from Kravis Leadership Institute at Claremont McKenna College; Professor Samuel Wilson  from Swinburne University of Technology; Dr. Kerry Elliott from ACER; Scott Ko from ColourSpace Gallery  Resources:  Professor Day's article on systems-based approach to development: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-328X/14/7/548 ANU School of Cybernetics white paper on Cybernetic Leadership: https://cybernetics.anu.edu.au/projects/cybernetics-leadership/  

The Answers to Your Leadership Development Questions: What constitutes truly effective leadership development? With an abundance of theories, frameworks, and methodologies available, how can we discern which approaches are most effective—and in what contexts? More critically, how do we measure genuine developmental progress in leaders? In this episode of Talking Leadership Development, we present key insights from the February 21st webinar. Hosted by Toby Newstead, PhD, the conversation involved leading scholars and experienced practitioners who engaged in a rigorous discussion on these pressing questions. Whether you are responsible for designing leadership programs, teaching leadership, developing others, or enhancing your own capabilities, this conversation offers research-driven perspectives and practical strategies to elevate leadership development in complex and evolving environments. Hosted by Dr Toby Newstead from the University of Tasmania, the panel included Dr. Ruchi Sinha from Nanyang Technological University Singapore; Dr. Scott Allen from Cox School of Business Executive Education, Southern Methodist University; Prof. Ronald Riggio from Kravis Leadership Institute - Claremont McKenna College

Episode seven: Systems-Based Approaches to Fostering Leader and Leadership Development, featuring Professor Katherine Daniell, Director of the School of Cybernetics at The Australian National University & Professor David V. Day, Professor of Psychological Science & Leadership, Academic Director of the Kravis Leadership Institute at Claremont McKenna College.  In this episode of the Leadership Navigating Complexity podcast, host Dr. Aiden Thornton speaks with Professor Katherine Daniell & Professor David V. Day. The conversation focuses on the distinctions between leader and leadership development, and between event-based, practice-based, and systems-based approaches to development. David highlights that while traditional leadership development focuses on individuals, effective leadership development should aim to enhance the collective capacity of groups or organisations, especially in addressing complex challenges. Catherine echoes this viewpoint, noting that her cybernetics program focuses on collective development, selecting entire cohorts rather than individuals to foster systemic change. Dr Aiden M. A. Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Professor Katherine Daniell from the School of Cybernetics at The Australian National University; Professor David V. Day from Kravis Leadership Institute at Claremont McKenna College Professor David V Day: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-328X/14/7/548 The ANU's perspective on cybernetic leadership: https://cybernetics.anu.edu.au/projects/cybernetics-leadership/  

Episode Six: On The Measurement of Leadership, featuring Dr Matt Barney, Founder and award-winning Organisational Psychologist & Professor John Antonakis, Organisational Behaviour in the Faculty of Business and Economics of the University of Lausanne, Switzerland.  In this episode of the Leadership Navigating Complexity podcast, host Dr. Aiden Thornton speaks with Dr Matt Barney & professor John Antonakis about the challenges of accurately measuring leadership behaviour, differentiating it from mere perceptions, which are often influenced by biases. Dr. Barney discusses advances in AI that enable the capture of precise behavioural data, a "game changer" in leadership evaluation, while Professor Antonakis highlights issues around traditional behavioural assessments and the importance of understanding nuanced perceptions. Dr Aiden M. A. Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Dr Matt Barney from TruMind.ai; Professor John Antonakis from HEC Lausanne - The Faculty of Business and Economics of the University of Lausanne.  Additional Resources:  Dr Matt Barney   3 Transdisciplinary measurement through AI: hybrid metrology and psychometrics powered by large language models   Professor John Antonakis: Learning Charisma, by John Antonakis, Marika Fenley and Sue Liechti  John Antonakis, Google Scholar  John Antonakis, ResearchGate 

Episode Five: The Neuropsychology of Complexity Leadership, featuring Dr Jess Herrington, Neuroscientist and Futures Specialist at ANU School of Cybernetics, The Australian National University. In this episode, the discussion delves into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience, leadership, and complexity. Dr Herrington brings her expertise in visual neuroscience to explore how the human brain processes patterns, textures, and the impacts of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's. The conversation shifts to the intricate ways leaders' brains manage complexity, focusing on the critical roles of the prefrontal cortex, thalamus, and basal ganglia in metacognition, decision-making, and inhibition. This episode also examines how stress influences problem-solving, emphasising the delicate balance between maintaining cognitive engagement and avoiding overwhelm. By understanding these dynamics, leaders can optimise their executive functioning and navigate complex challenges more effectively. Whether you're a leader, a neuroscience enthusiast, or simply curious about the brain's role in tackling complexity, this episode will inspire you to think deeply about how we approach leadership in an interconnected world. Dr Aiden M. A. Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Dr Jess Herrington, Neuroscientist and Futures Specialist at ANU School of Cybernetics, The Australian National University.

"Challenges & Opportunities in Developing Leadership" What stands between us and more effective leadership development? From the research-practice gap to emerging challenges like generative AI and leader burnout, traditional approaches are being tested like never before. Leading academics and seasoned practitioners unpacked critical challenges in leadership development and revealed promising ways forward. Hosted by Toby Newstead, PhD, the discussion delves into how leadership development, according to the panellists, must go beyond surface-level skills to embrace a deeper sense of purpose, empathy, and collective responsibility. It's about navigating complex social and organisational challenges with a strong sense of purpose and accountability. Hosted by Dr Toby Newstead from the University of Tasmania, the panel included Professor Michelle Ryan, Gender Equality Expert, Professor of Social and Organisational Psychology; Dr Tomas Remenyi, Science Translator & Climate Scientist; Sara Redman, Leadership & Culture Consultant; Prof. David Day, Professor of Psychological Science and Leadership

Episode Four: Bridging Theory and Practice in Complexity Leadership, with Professor Christopher Pietroni & Dr Rachel Lilley In this episode of the Leadership Navigating Complexity podcast, host Dr. Aiden Thornton speaks with Professor Christopher Pietroni and Dr Rachel Lilley about whether leadership truly makes a difference, particularly in the context of global populism and its impact on organisational narratives. The discussion delves into how leaders often resort to simplified, comforting messages to address complex issues, exploring the implications of this trend on both political and organisational levels. They examine the need for leaders to balance simplicity and complexity in communication, emphasising the importance of revealing genuine dilemmas to engage their teams effectively. Dr Aiden Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Professor Christopher Pietroni from University of Birmingham; Rachel Lilley from University of Birmingham

Episode Three: Real-World Examples of Complexity Leadership, with Jackie O'Dowd, Founding Partner/CEO of Realising-Potential In this episode of the Leadership Navigating Complexity podcast, host Dr. Aiden Thornton speaks with Jackie O'Dowd, CEO of Realising Potential, about complexity leadership and its practical applications in today's business environment. Jackie shares her insights on the challenges faced by senior leaders, emphasising the struggle to align strategies, engage employees, and deploy technology effectively. She discusses the paradox leaders encounter between maintaining current customer satisfaction while preparing for future demands. Dr Aiden Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Jackie O'Dowd from Realising-Potential

Episode Two: The Fundamentals of Complexity Theory, with Shannan Distinguished Professor Geoffrey West In this episode, host Dr. Aiden Thornton explores the fundamentals of complexity theory with Shannan Distinguished Professor Geoffrey West. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding complex adaptive systems—networks with many interconnected parts that exhibit emergent properties. West emphasises that these systems, such as cities, are more than just the sum of their individual components. He also discusses the Institute's unique structure, which fosters interaction among a small group of scholars and visitors, allowing for dynamic exchanges of ideas without the rigidity of tenure. Dr Aiden Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Shannan Distinguished Professor Geoffrey West

Episode One: Introduction to Leadership and Complexity, with Dr Kerry Elliott & Associate Professor Alessandra Capezio In this episode, host Dr. Aiden Thornton delves into the concept of complexity leadership with guests Dr. Kerry Elliott and Alessandra Capezio. Together, they explore how leadership has evolved to address today's interconnected challenges, underscoring the importance of collective approaches and adaptive skills. Their conversation highlights the need for innovative tools and strategies to navigate complex environments, setting the foundation for deeper insights in the episodes to come. Dr Aiden Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Dr Kerry Elliott from Australian Council for Educational Research; Alessandra Capezio from The Australian National University (ANU) 

"Leadership Development for What?" What are we developing leaders to be or do? When/where/how do we distinguish between educating, training, and developing leaders and/or processes of leadership?  This podcast adaptation delves into the complexities of leadership development, posing the critical question: "Leadership development for what?" With global investments in leadership programs, panellists explore the ultimate purpose behind them, considering whether the goal is personal advancement, organisational growth, or driving social change. Featuring perspectives from leadership scholars, Indigenous educators, and practitioners, the discussion emphasises the importance of mentorship, values-driven leadership, and addressing real-world issues like equity, justice, and climate action. The podcast challenges the status quo, calling for leadership development to be more inclusive, purpose-driven, and focused on creating meaningful impact in today's complex world. Hosted by Dr Toby Newstead from the University of Tasmania, the panel included Dr Michael Lickers from Royal Roads University; Liz Gillies from the Menzies Foundation; Will Smith from JCP Youth; Herman Tse from Monash University & Harvard Business Review; and Suze Wilson from Massey University School of Management. 

Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins  Welcome to the eighth episode of the series, "Reflection and Action," Featuring Rebecca McGrath FAICD, Director, Macquarie Group. In our final episode, we spotlight Rebecca McGrath, a leading ASX Director whose bold advocacy for climate action and a zero-carbon economy highlights the power of purpose in leadership. Her clarity and dedication to these vital issues exemplify how purpose can drive impactful change. Rebecca's story echoes the theme shared by all our podcast guests, each demonstrating a strong sense of purpose—whether drawn from 60,000 years of Indigenous traditions or the challenges of coal mining and space exploration. Purpose weaves through their experiences, building trust and nurturing potential. ______________________________________________________________________________________ In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star', purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become. It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives. _______________________________________________________________________________________

Welcome to the seventh episode of the series, "Empowering Others to Lead with Purpose" featuring Peggy O'Neal, American born Australian lawyer, Chancellor of RMIT University and former president of Richmond Football Club (AFL).  Peggy O'Neal's journey into leadership began in the coal fields of her US hometown, where she grew up surrounded by a tough, working-class environment. A pivotal influence in her life was her mother, who instilled a sense of purpose and encouraged Peggy to break barriers by studying law, making her the first in her family to do so. Fast forward to her new home in Australia, Peggy's leadership path has been marked by significant achievements. She became a leader in law, served as Chancellor of RMIT University, and was President of the Richmond Football Club, leading the team to three premierships in just four years. Central to her success is her unwavering sense of purpose—creating opportunities and uniting people. This sense of purpose is reflected in her approach to leadership: fostering trust, building connections, and consistently repeating these behaviours until they become defining habits. ______________________________________________________________________________________ In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star', purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become. It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives. _______________________________________________________________________________________

Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins  Welcome to the sixth episode of the series, "Wisdom, Courage, and Resilience in Leadership," featuring Dr Robyn Miller, Chief Executive Officer, Mackillop Family Services.  Our most recent podcast guest, Dr Robyn Miller, imparted a profound understanding that a leader with a clear sense of purpose can effectuate change even amidst complex challenges. With over 40 years of experience in addressing family violence, sexual abuse, and other deeply confronting issues, Dr Miller's palpable sense of optimism becomes evident. Her discussion highlights how a reinforced sense of purpose and meaning serves as a catalyst for tackling obstacles. This foundational element has endowed her with the wisdom, resilience, and courage necessary to navigate her distinguished career with remarkable effectiveness. ______________________________________________________________________________________ In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star', purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become. It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives. _______________________________________________________________________________________

Meaningful change requires both institutional reforms and individual actions. In our latest episode, Liz Gillies, CEO, Menzies Foundation, and Associate Professor Sam Wilson take a deep dive into Australia's civic health and leadership. This insightful discussion centres on the findings from the newly launched report, The Civic Health of Australia: A National Portrait in 30 Charts, powered by the Menzies Foundation and developed by Associate Professor Sam Wilson and the Australian Leadership Index at Swinburne University. The report paints a concerning picture of Australia's civic health, revealing declines across three crucial dimensions: civic awareness and engagement, belonging and connecting in the community, and volunteering and giving. Liz and Sam explore these findings in depth, offering a compelling analysis of the challenges in measuring leadership for the 'greater good', the alarming trends of distrust and polarisation, and the vital role each of us plays in fostering a healthier civic environment. Whether you're passionate about leadership, civic engagement, or simply curious about the future of our democracy, this episode is a must-listen.

Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins  Welcome to the fifth episode of the series, "Collaborative Leadership and Collective Responsibility," featuring  Lily Nguyen, Partner at Lander & Rogers. Lily Nguyen, is one of the 930,000 people who arrived in Australia as refugees post-World War II. In the late 1970s, Lily was a baby carried by her mother on a perilous journey from war-torn Vietnam to Malaysia and eventually to Australia. Now a respected lawyer, Lily's leadership reflects the power of family and community in nurturing leadership, a common thread throughout her narrative which affirms how leadership purpose often stems from deep-rooted values and the influence of the collective around us.  Click through to listen and be inspired by powerful stories of leadership and purpose! ______________________________________________________________________________________ In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star', purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become. It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives. _______________________________________________________________________________________

Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins  Welcome to the fourth episode of the series, "Building and Leading Ethical Cultures," featuring Tony Shepherd AO, Chair of the Boards of the Greater Western Sydney Giants, the Australian Subscription Television and Radio Association and the Sydney Cricket Ground Trust. Tony Shepherd, is a distinguished figure who has led the Business Council of Australia and made significant contributions across both private and public sectors in tackling major challenges by dismantling conventional barriers, addressing issues like productivity, decarbonisation, and Indigenous reconciliation across ASX companies and football clubs. He frequently discusses the importance of mentoring, respect, and learning from experts, highlighting a leadership philosophy that embraces the human dimension entirely.  ______________________________________________________________________________________ In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star', purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become. It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives. _______________________________________________________________________________________

“What is Leadership”, the premise is simple: in order to effectively develop leadership (and therefore justify the exorbitant spending on it), we need greater clarity on what exactly 'it' is.   This webinar adaption explores the backdrop of the multi-billion-dollar leadership industry, within which little consensus exists in relation to what leadership actually is or how to develop it, and in consideration of the often-bemoaned gap between research and practice, Talking Leadership Development showcases diverse perspectives in an effort to distill synergies and lift the understanding and practice of leadership development in Australia and beyond.  Hosted by Dr Toby Newstead and Dr Joey Crawford from the University of Tasmania, the panel included Adam Gowen from Country Universities Centre Southern Shoalhaven; Professor Amy Tian from Curtin University; Associate Professor Nathan Eva from Monash University; and Katherine Ellis, CEO of Leadership Victoria. 

Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins  Welcome to the third episode of the series, "Navigating Challenges with Purpose," featuring Andrew Crisp AM APM, former Australian police officer, Emergency Management.  Andrew Crisp has held several notable roles, including Deputy Commissioner in Victoria's Police Force, part of the counter-terrorist unit at Vic Pol, service in Papua New Guinea, and participation in Australia's peace-keeping mission in Timor-Leste. He was also a key leader in managing COVID-19 and Emergency Management in Victoria. Over 30 years, he has worked to bridge gaps between various migrants and other communities in Victoria, solidifying his purpose as being a ‘connector': building trust and reaching out, even to those with critical views of Victoria Police.  ______________________________________________________________________________________ In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star', purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become. It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives. _______________________________________________________________________________________

Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins  Welcome to the second episode of the series, "The Foundation of Purpose," featuring Australian astronaut, Dr Beth Jens, NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration Engineer.  Dr Jens, was instantly inspired when NASA came to her hometown of Geelong to talk about space when she was 16 years old, her life has never been the same since. She now works for NASA in the United States and has dedicated her working life to being an astronaut who will go on a mission to Mars.  Beth holds purpose as a guide to her life. To quote JFK, “we do these things not because they are easy but because they are hard and because we need to push the limits of human possibilities to new frontiers – whether that be in space, or medical research or in the way we teach and inspire young people to realise their full potential and their purpose.” ______________________________________________________________________________________ In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star', purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become. It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives. _______________________________________________________________________________________

*NEW SERIES* - Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins  Welcome to the first episode of the series, "Purpose and Leadership," featuring Catherine Liddle, CEO of SNAICC, and Menzies Foundation Board Director. An Arrernte/Luritja woman from Central Australia, Catherine's mission is of rich tapestry that culminates in traditions of Indigenous storytelling, kinship, and community, all foundational pillars of leadership and resilience for over 60,000 years. “He had blue eyes.” This poignant memory, captures the lasting impression her grandfather had of the government official who took him away from his parents. Despite this painful history, Catherine has found a profound purpose inspired by Aristotle's concept of human flourishing, a dedication and contribution that is deeply seeded in ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children experience well-being and the full breadth of opportunities available in life.  ______________________________________________________________________________________ In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star', purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become. It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives. _______________________________________________________________________________________

Finance is one of the most powerful systems in the world. It can drive a community's economic growth, create jobs, and support the development of housing and other crucial infrastructure. It can enable new and innovative sectors to flourish, and support communities, organisations, and households through crises or otherwise disruptive transitions. Join us as we explore how Web3 can revolutionise community finance and challenge financial inequities. What is Web3? Web3 is the next generation of the internet where individuals control their digital lives through blockchain technology, enabling secure and transparent interactions.  Facilitated by Liz Gillies, CEO, Menzies Foundation, this podcast features insights from Joy Anderson, Founder and President of Criterion Institute; Michelle Baldwin, Senior Advisor at Community Foundations of Canada and contributor to SuperBenefit DAO;  Anna Powell, CEO of Collaboration for Impact. Learn more - REPORT: Designing Web3 Financial Innovations for Social Change ______________________ This important work is powered by Menzies Foundation and in collaboration with Criterion Institute. Working systemically, Menzies Foundation is committed to exploring the culture infrastructure and capability platform to build citizen leadership, resilience, and new ways of thinking to inform the development of governance and capital flows to support the agency and autonomy of communities to flourish.

Leaders today confront an unprecedented level of complexity across various fronts. From rapidly changing market dynamics to emerging technologies, the spectrum of challenges is vast and multifaceted. The World Economic Forum's recent report highlights a plethora of global risks, including climate action failure, biodiversity loss, and infectious diseases, underscoring the urgency for effective leadership in the face of complexity. In this episode, Liz Gillies, CEO Menzies Foundation and newly appointed Menzies Senior Research Fellow, Leadership and Complexity, Dr Aiden M. A. Thornton explore the recent appointment, and the relationship between purpose and the capability required to lead in complexity; all with the understanding that these are essential elements if we are to drive positive change for the greater ‘good'. 

The Menzies Foundation is delighted to welcome back to the Menzies Leadership Forum; Cindy Mitchell, a remarkable individual who joined us several years ago as a Menzies PhD scholar. Cindy plays a crucial role in our Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship initiative, focusing on empowering Indigenous Women and as an industry PhD fellow, she has not only contributed significantly to the Maganda Makers program but also serves as the storyteller shaping the narrative at the core of our mission. In this episode, we delve into her transformative journey over the past few years and discover the profound insights and knowledge her PhD has unearthed and how it continues to shape and inform our ongoing work. We are excited to celebrate Cindy's extraordinary contributions and explore the impact of her work on Maganda Makers and beyond.

"So, there's the thing about the pushback around this is just too difficult and complex, and it's just like, "Well, get over it, because the challenges we face are difficult, and complex, and we need to evolve different ways of working to meet them." So I'm not particularly sympathetic to that response. And I also note that I think there's a common sense of people's of urgency and frustration is, "I want to do action, I want to be involved in action." And then I quite often hear in the next sentence, "We're really bad at collaborating with others." And it's like, "Well, this is the point, and these two things actually aren't mutually exclusive." This is about investing in ways of organising to enable more joined up ways of acting. And the fact that we're not doing it at the moment, and we have to shift our mindsets, and our skillsets, and ways of working towards it is just a challenge. But it's better than the alternatives". Join Alex Hannant and Menzies Foundation CEO, Liz Gillies as they explore catalytic philanthropy, systems transformation and uncover the conditions we need to accelerate regenerative and distributive futures. Alex Hannant is Executive in Residence, Griffith Centre for Systems Innovation and Director, Pocketknife

"Australia is still critical, indigenous is the heartbeat of everything we do, mentoring is still our bread and butter and our nerve and everything else, and we create experiences that uplift humanity to remember who they are".  Join AIME Co-CEO's; Parul Punjabi and Suzie Winkelman togther with Menzies Foundation CEO, Liz Gillies as they explore purpose and leadership, the collaborative journey and the patterns that humans hold with each other and the world around us

"So I would just invite everyone to, and it's different for everybody, but to consider our own personal relationships and what leadership looks like in those relationships. And to broaden the concept of leadership, which is something that we've spoken about a lot, beyond the title of someone with a certain stature or status. And to see leadership as a form of stewarding relationships to people in place every single day and that's something that we all are part of". Join Al Jeffery and Menzies Foundation CEO, Liz Gillies as they explore purpose and leadership in what is an increasingly complex, polarized, tribal and challenging world. Al Jeffery is an internationally renowned community-designer, group-facilitator, author and leadership expert in service to our hyperconnected-yet-deeply-fragmented world. As Co-Founder and Director at The Base Between (formerly Base Commons), Al explores the themes of disconnection prevalent today, designs and facilitates spaces for re-connection in communities, leadership and the lives of individuals. With his creative career starting at just 12 years old, Al has been listed in Australia's Top 30 Entrepreneurs Under 30 twice in a row and nominated for Young Australian of the Year.

Menzies Foundation is delighted to be collaborating with Regen Melbourne, a mission-led network exploring a more regenerative future for the city, piloting the implementation of a ‘leadership movement for the ‘greater good' that explores the barriers and impediments, and most importantly, opportunities to scaffold every citizen's capacity to act for the ‘greater good'. Take a moment to join Liz Gillies, Menzies Foundation CEO and CEO, Regen Melbourne, Kaj Löfgren as they unpack purpose and leadership. Kaj is also the Entrepreneur in Residence at Small Giants Academy where he collaborates on the Academy's education and storytelling initiatives, including the Impact Safari program and the Mastery of Business and Empathy.

Foundation Board member and Alumni representative, Matt is an extraordinary example of somebody who deeply thinks about their leadership capability, pivots to purpose and contributes to the greater good. Jesuit Social Services works to build a just society where all people can reach their potential and flourish as human beings. A just society is a safe society where everyone can have healthy, fulfilling relationships built on respect. 

Through the Ninian Stephen Law Program: New Legal Thinking for Emerging Technologies, the Menzies Foundation are building capacity in the legal profession to provide effective responses to the challenges of emerging technology. It brings together leaders from the legal profession and business, along with engineers, computer scientists and technology specialists, from both the private and public sectors in a program of research, collaboration, dissemination, teaching and engagement. This initiative is supported by an outstanding advisory board, comprised of Australian experts in the law, technology and ethics. And today I'm absolutely delighted to welcome Cam Whitfield, our very esteemed chair of the advisory board. Cam is a partner at help at Herbert Smith Freehills, specializing in digital law, cyber security and emerging technologies, and an honorary senior fellow and lecture at the Melbourne Law school. Prior to going back to private practices this year, Cam was a partner at PWC, focusing on digital and technology, cyber security and digital trust.

Indigenous women have a VOICE and it is time that those voices are heard more in organisations, businesses, corporations and in places of government locally, regionally and nationally. Born and raised in the East Kimberley, Natasha is passionate about positive social change and righting injustices. Aware of the challenges within the Kimberley region, she is solutions-focused and positive about the future. Together we strive to highlight the importance of building platforms focused on women's economic empowerment to support these women to help themselves, support their families and communities, connect to markets and access financial services.

Leadership, opportunity, philanthropy, resilience, fashion and wine - join me for the inside word on one of Australia's most progressive leadership organisations, and hear from the CEO, Liz Gillies, as we talk purpose, entrepreneurship and building the next industrial age.

The Rising Team system is built around a philosophy they call the 3 Cs—Coach, Clarify, and Connect. It's a framework for leaders to consistently do what great sports coaches do: understand and develop each team member, articulate a clear vision, plan to get results, and build the team into a cohesive unit. In this episode, Liz Gillies, Menzies Foundation CEO and Jennifer Dulski, CEO and Founder of Rising Team, explore how empowering managers to build a more engaged, connected, and successful team is an increasingly important component of leadership in a globalized, digitized, tribal world. 

The Menzies Foundation builds multi-sector Incubators to uncover new ways of thinking and working in leadership. Anna Young, General Manager Leadership & Talent, Wesfarmers Limited, brings a corporate perspective, which currently provides insight and great contribution to our work in school leadership. In this episode, Liz Gillies, Menzies Foundation CEO has the benefit of exploring Anna's wisdom and corporate insight in this conversation about leadership.

As an additional support and to compliment the Indigenous Women's Entrepreneur initiative, the Foundation is delighted to have accepted an invitation to join Swinburne University as an industry partner to support Cindy Mitchell, CEO, The Millhouse Ventures to undertake a PhD focused on women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, and indigenous leadership. Join Liz Gillies, CEO, Menzies Foundation as she explores the leadership and what that means to Cindy, 

As featured in the recent Menzies Foundation & Swinburne University Leadership Hackathon, join Liz Gillies, Menzies Foundation CEO as she explores the current leadership landscape, and provides the context for much of the Foundation’s strategic platform.

Join host Liz Gillies, CEO of Menzies Foundation and Medtech Actuator CEO, Dr Buzz Palmer and Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Strategy Officer, Dr Vishaal Kishore, as they explore the leadership landscape and key leadership values required as an entrepreneur, plus the much anticipated launch of the new Medtech Actuator Menzies Science Fellowship 2021.

As leaders everywhere are being challenged we're all having to do things that are extremely unfamiliar to us. The tragedies of COVID are only one part of the last 9 months. This time, right now, is what we can describe as the "Great Reset”; a sudden shock, and rapid acceleration. This is followed by the "Great Reinvention"; the required rapid transformation of the businesses we are managing.This is our opportunity to rethink our value propositions of the past toward the new world we need to navigate.Adam Salzer and Menzies Foundation Board member, Tony Surtees will look at where we are now and options about where we could go next.How we as leaders can help the teams we lead, cope and prosper as we navigate this period of unprecedented change.

2019 Menzies Science Entrepreneur Fellows, Dr Melony Sellars and Dr Simon Gross speak of their fellowship journey, challenges and leadership.

In this current time of uncertainty, the Foundation have had the opportunity to sit down in a 1:1 interview with Mark Crosweller, former First Assistant Secretary for the National Resilience Taskforce and Director-General of Director-General of Emergency Management Australia. 

In this current time of uncertainty, the Foundation have had the opportunity to sit down in a 1:1 interview with Mark Crosweller, former First Assistant Secretary for the National Resilience Taskforce and Director-General of Director-General of Emergency Management Australia.