In Episode 150 of the No Limitations podcast Back to the Whiteboard, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with John Mullen, Chair of Qantas Airways Ltd, Brambles Ltd and Treasury Wine Estates Ltd.

 

In a topical discussion, John confronts the challenges plaguing Australian corporate Boardrooms, highlighting how these issues could undermine productivity and threaten the future growth of the nation. Drawing from his rich experience leading TNT and DHL Express, John shares his war stories and invaluable learnings, revealing the people challenges that continue to resonate in today’s corporate world. He offers a stark warning that over-regulation on ASX-listed entities is driving top talent away from public companies to the Boardrooms and management ranks of private capital. John concludes by emphasising that governance initiatives such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) should not be a mere tick-box exercise but rather something that should be strategically pursued if they add tangible value to the organisation.

 

John spent his early career with TNT Group, where he held several leadership positions, including as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TNT Express Worldwide from 1990 to 1994. He then advanced to the DHL Group, where he became Global CEO of DHL Express in 2006. John’s executive career continued as he served as Managing Director and CEO of Asciano Ltd, one of Australia’s largest port and rail operators, before taking on the role of Executive Chairman at The Toll Group. John served on the Board of Telstra Group Ltd from 2008 and held the position of Chairman from 2016 to 2023. Currently, John is the Chair of Qantas Airways Ltd, Brambles Ltd, Treasury Wine Estates Ltd, and Scyne Advisory, a PwC spin-off. He also serves as a Director at Brookfield Infrastructure Corporation, a US-based asset management firm.

 

Please note: this episode was recorded on 14 March 2025.

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