The Downer Difference

In this episode of The Downer Difference, we dive into the critical elements of building and sustaining high-performing teams. Success isn’t just about strategy - it’s about owning the outcomes, fostering the right team dynamics, and creating an environment where people can thrive.

Joining us is Leo Triplik, who shares insights on what it takes to build and nurture a team that delivers consistent performance while attracting the next generation of talent. From celebrating victories (and failures) to finding the right people, this conversation is packed with valuable lessons for leaders at every level.

🎙️ In this episode, we explore:

✔️ The power of taking ownership and accountability in leadership

✔️ How team compatibility impacts performance and workplace culture

✔️ The role of personal connections in driving team success

✔️ Why celebrating wins and losses and learning from them is key to growth

✔️ Industry-based learning as a tool to attract and engage Gen Z talent

✔️ Strategies for identifying, securing, and nurturing top talent

This is a must-listen for leaders, contract managers, HR professionals, and anyone passionate about fostering a workplace where people feel empowered, engaged, and set up for success.

Recommended books: The Martian by Any Weir

Recommended song & music artist: Show must go on by Queen

📺 Watch on YouTube

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In this special International Women’s Day episode of The Downer Difference, we sit down with Emma Gamblin, Chair of EmpowHer - Downer’s first enterprise-wide employee network supporting women across the business.

Creating an inclusive workplace isn’t just the right thing to do, it drives better outcomes for our people, customers, and communities. In this conversation, Emma shares her insights on what it takes to build an organisation where women want to work, thrive, and stay, and how each of us, regardless of gender, can contribute to a more inclusive future.

In this episode, we explore:

✔️ The role of EmpowHer in supporting women across Downer

✔️ How male allies can actively support women in a traditionally male-dominated industry

✔️ Reverse discrimination - myths vs. reality

✔️ How to create a workplace where women thrive and feel valued

✔️ The importance of vulnerability, kindness, and bringing your whole self to work

✔️ Mentorship and advocacy and how leaders at every level can make a difference

This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about diversity, inclusion, and building a workplace where everyone’s voice is heard, and talent can shine at full volume.

📺 Watch on YouTube

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In this episode of The Downer Difference, we sat down with Peter Tompkins, Downer Group CEO, as he reflects on what The Downer Difference means to them and how it’s shaping Downer’s work.

This episode begins with a relaxed and intimate conversation, starting with book recommendations - perhaps a few you'll want to add to your own reading list - before diving into their favourite music artists.

We then explore:

• Unpacking common myths about the CEO role and the reality behind them
• The power of visible leadership and why it matters
• Mentors who’ve shaped Peter’s journey, daily habits & his definition of success
• Peter’s proudest achievements since stepping into the CEO role
• The origins of the Downer Difference and the inputs of people in shaping it
• What Downer’s culture means to him and how it’s driving performance
• The difference between a good leader vs great leader
• What it means to be an agile contractor and how it’s applied at Downer

Recommended books: Make your bed by William H. McRaven and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/To_Kill_a_Mockingbird To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. 

Recommended music artist: INXS

Don’t miss this engaging and insightful conversation that showcases how Downer is creating impact through their culture. 

📺 Watch on YouTube

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Welcome to The Downer Difference, the podcast inspired by the launch of Downer’s new culture, created to share the stories of our people and the impact they’re making shaping Downer’s success. 

Through engaging conversations, we dive into what makes Downer tick - from driving a high-performance culture to delivering remarkable outcomes for our customers and empowering communities to thrive by standing for each other.

In each episode, we’ll uncover:

• How The Downer Difference drives transformation and resilience.
• Insights from leaders on culture, innovation, and sustainability.
• Personal stories of achievements, lessons learned, and growth.

Whether you're part of the Downer team or simply curious about what makes a leading infrastructure and services provider excel, this is your backstage pass to the heart of Downer.

Tune in for inspiring conversations, practical takeaways, and a fresh perspective on creating impact through culture, collaboration, and care.

And for a fun twist, each episode features a book and song recommendation that reflect our guest’s perspective on the culture. 

This first season is co-produced by two of Downer’s own - Mhairi Donohoe, General Manager, Education, and Helene Toury, General Manager, Brand & Marketing. 

Tune in to be inspired, informed, and connected with the heart of Downer. Follow us now!

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