BHP Australia president Geraldine Slattery has emphasised the critical role of business leadership in navigating today’s complex global environment in her speech to the QUT Business Leaders Forum.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty and increased competition, Slattery described the current business landscape as “a world that feels as if it’s in the midst of a great transition”.
Yet she maintained a hopeful tone, asserting that this is “a better and more needed moment for business leadership”.
Slattery spoke about Australia’s unique position, particularly in the mining industry, as a leader in talent, resources and proximity to high-growth Asian markets.
She stressed that the sector’s future lies in pivoting toward resources critical to decarbonisation such as copper, nickel and lithium.
“It is impossible to imagine a transition to new forms of energy and electrification without the indispensable minerals and the know-how to extract them from the earth,” Slattery said.
Reflecting on recent decisions, such as BHP’s suspension of its Western Australian nickel operations, Slattery recognised the challenges ahead but emphasised the opportunity for leadership to drive innovation and competitiveness.
“Leadership drives culture, and culture drives performance,” she said.
Slattery also advocated for leaders to challenge the status quo, particularly in policy and regulatory reform. Citing Queensland’s coal royalty regime as an example, she called for collaboration between business and policymakers.
“The sugar hit of revenue won’t leave the state better off in the long run if investment is driven elsewhere,” Slattery said.
“I am not advocating for policy critique for the sake of it – rather I am suggesting that a partnership approach between business and policy makers will likely create better outcomes for all.
“But is starts with making our views known in a respectful way, rather than grumbling on the sidelines.”
Slattery called for a renewed focus on national competitiveness, particularly through automation, technology and skills investment.
“Competitiveness must be the touchstone of every business conversation,” she said. “Restoring our competitive edge takes a competitive mindset, a readiness to take on new challenges, and the ones that follow.
“These are big, complex topics, but I also maintain the formula for leadership remains simple: it’s about people and culture; it’s about challenging the status quo when it makes sense to do so; and it’s about being an unrelenting champion for competitiveness.”
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