Could you tell us when you joined TAKRAF Group, explain in a few sentences what your role is, your responsibilities and give us some of your experience?
This year marks my 10th anniversary with TAKRAF Group as the HR Manager for Australia. My career in the mining industry began 16 years ago, first working for a global gold mining company and leading the HR team in Papua New Guinea. I then moved to an international drilling company before joining TAKRAF. My role is to oversee all HR functions and foster a positive work culture. My goal is to effectively manage the organization's human capital in support of its mission and goals.
What has been your personal highlight at TAKRAF Group and perhaps also outside of work?
My professional achievements at TAKRAF Group are many, but one of them was managing the challenges posed by the COVID pandemic. This period placed significant pressure on the HR teams to delicately balance the needs of employees with the overarching business objectives. In addition, I am proud to have contributed to the promotion of diversity and the empowerment of women within the organization. The introduction of family-friendly policies and flexible work arrangements has helped women advance into key leadership roles, including senior management positions, while managing familiar responsibilities.
Beyond my professional endeavors, my family, including my partner Jason, 11-year-old Molly and our twin boys who arrived in April, actively supports local charities and events within our community. In particular, we sponsor an annual fundraising event to support community members facing significant health challenges, such as disabilities or cancer diagnoses. This involvement underscores our family's commitment to making a positive impact beyond the confines of the workplace.
What do you enjoy the most about what you do at TAKRAF Group?
Being a part of TAKRAF Group provides a unique opportunity to be involved in all levels of the organization, going beyond mere administrative duties. Personally, I have been privileged to gain insight into operational components that are typically beyond the HR horizon. This multifaceted nature of my role, coupled with the inclusive attitude fostered by the company, facilitates seamless integration and fosters collaborative efforts.
Why is mining or engineering a stimulating sector for women to enter?
Engineering and mining offer a stimulating environment for women to enter for several reasons. First, these sectors are undergoing rapid technological advancement, providing exciting opportunities for innovation and problem solving. Women bring diverse perspectives and creative thinking to the table, enhancing the industry's ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. In addition, there is a growing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion to the success and sustainability of the sector, making it more welcoming for women to pursue fulfilling careers.
If you had to give one piece of advice to a young person on how to enter and succeed in the world of work, and in the mining sector in particular, what would it be?
One key piece of advice I would give to a young person who wants to succeed in the engineering and mining sector, or any field for that matter, is to adopt a mindset of humility, respect and a willingness to learn from those who have more experience. By embracing humility, respecting the knowledge of senior professionals, leaving entitlement behind, and showing up every day ready to learn and contribute, young people can set themselves up for success in the world of work, especially in the challenging and dynamic field of engineering and mining.
Which woman would you like to sit down to dinner with and why?
I know it should be someone famous like Oprah or Marie Curie (pioneering scientist and the first woman to win a Nobel Prize), but if I had to choose someone to sit down and have dinner with, it would undoubtedly be my mother, Christine.
Despite being in her 70s, Mom continues to be an unwavering source of support in both my personal and professional life, offering guidance and reassurance whenever I need it.
My mom has played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today, instilling in me values of kindness and compassion, along with a strong belief in myself and the innate goodness in others. Prior to her retirement as an Aged Care Manager and Director of Wesley Mission, Mom exemplified an unwavering commitment to fairness and a proactive approach to overcoming challenges, especially in times of adversity. Her wisdom and resilience have left an indelible mark on my life, and there's no one I'd rather share a meal and a heartfelt conversation with than her.
This article is part of our ongoing series spotlighting the remarkable women contributing to the mining industry at TAKRAF Group. Stay tuned for more inspiring and personal interviews with our international colleagues.
Innovation out of tradition – It pays to talk to a specialist!